Renovation FAQ’s
How much will my renovation cost?
If you’re looking for a ballpark cost, we’re happy to look at the feasibility of your project - however, every project is unique. We recommend using our pre-construction services to determine to cost of your project and look at the type of contract that's right for you.
How are my prices determined?
Small Repair or Renovation Projects
For projects that are straightforward and easy to plan, our contract of choice is the Fixed Price Contract. A fixed price contract sets out the total price for the work, including all labour, materials, sub-contractor labour, equipment rentals and other expenses. Any changes or adjustments to a fixed-price contract require a written Change Order signed by both parties.
Larger Renovation Projects
When the exact extent of the work to be done cannot be accurately determined in advance, a Cost-Plus Contract is your best choice. This contract is based on the cost actually paid for labour, subcontracted services, materials and other direct expenses, plus a fee to cover the contractor's time managing and coordinating all aspects of the project. The fee can be either a fixed amount or a percentage of the costs. The project budget set out in the contract should provide estimated costs for major elements of the work. To ensure that the project costs are kept under control, a maximum budget can also be set out in the contract.
Custom and Large-Scale Renovations
Most common with custom and large-scale renovations, a Design-Build Contract enables the owner to sign a single contract for the whole project rather than one for the design and a separate contract for the construction. For example, we often manage an entire custom renovation project, designing the space and then hiring subcontractors to build it. Most often, design-build management fees are a percentage of all costs.
Refinishing and Installation
A Unit Price Contract is based on a given rate per unit of measurement. For example, hardwood or decorative stone can be charged by the cubic meter or by area.
How do I get started on my renovation?
You’ll likely have lots of questions before we begin. First, we answer your questions and gather some basic information over the phone and then we schedule an on-site assessment to meet you personally and ask and answer any further questions. After your on-site assessment, we'll recommend either a feasibility study or firm up an estimate. We’ll get your feedback in order to fit and customize our solution and design to your needs. We’ll then draft an agreement, which includes written specifications, scope of work, and master schedule. Contracts are signed. Pre-construction meetings are held. Work begins.
How long will my project take?
The biggest source of relief for people doing renovations is a realistic schedules. Thorough planning not only leads to reduced costs, but also successfully staying on schedule. We try to ensure we stay on schedule by ordering all the long-lead items (windows, doors, shower glass) as soon as possible, and building a schedule around their arrival dates. You’ll also get access to an regular status reports that you can use to track your project's progress. All of our processes — from our pre-construction checklists to weekly project reviews — are designed to keep your project on time and on budget.
Do I need permits?
Permits are required for any structural, electrical or plumbing additions. Cosmetic or energy efficiency changes like flooring, tiles, windows, doors, and heating systems do not require permits. The process may seem complicated - having an experienced contractor to guide you through this process reduces stress and future headaches when you want to sell your home.
Can I hire my own subcontractors and buy my own materials?
Customers have questions, you have answers. Display the most frequently asked questions, so everybody benefits.
Can you help me with the design?
Yes. We are a design-build company, which means that we have in-house designers to help you with designs if you need them. We’ll also work with your own architect or interior designer.
What is your warranty policy?
We provide an industry-standard 12-month for the labour and installation on all aspects of our renovation projects. We have even repaired things that have occurred after the warranty has expired when we believe our workmanship has not not been up to our high standards. We stand behind our work. Period.