When it comes to home renovation, choosing the right professional for you and your project can seem overwhelming. There are a LOT of contractors working in Greater Victoria, after all, and many will have different levels of experience, different philosophies and different areas of specialty. Some prioritize new builds over renovations, others small projects rather than larger undertakings.
Regardless of the scope, however, a few fundamentals will help you choose the right contractor for your project, whether it's an addition to a heritage home in Oak Bay, a new kitchen in Saanich or a full renovation in the West Shore or Sooke.
Why does it matter? "Many homeowners don’t realize that in B.C., renovators don't require a license," notes Robbyn McDonald, Marketing & Office Manager with MAC Reno Design-Build, which has helped Greater Victorians create homes they live in and love for more than 40 years.
While new home builders have had to be licensed since 2014 – a qualification that includes minimum education requirements and ongoing professional development – renovators don't have the same requirements, even those who tackle major home additions, structural changes and significant interior upgrades.
"As professional builders, we hate hearing from a distressed homeowner whose contractor has disappeared, often mid-project, with money spent and trust broken," McDonald says. "At the same, these situations are avoidable, and we're committed to raising awareness about how homeowners can protect themselves."
5 ways to identify a renovator committed to doing things right
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Do they have a valid WorkSafeBC number? More than a formality, this demonstrates that the contractor protects their team and your liability as a homeowner. If a contractor can’t show proof of coverage, walk away – immediately.
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Are they're RenoMark certified? RenoMark is Canada’s renovation-specific certification, and ensures the contractor agrees to a code of conduct, offers written contracts – a must! – and provides warranties. "RenoMark is one of the few national programs focused specifically on renovators and it offers both peace of mind and valuable resources for homeowners," McDonald says.
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Are they’re active in professional associations? Whether it's the Victoria Residential Builders Association (VRBA), the Canadian Home Builders' Association (CHBA), or the Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA), reputable renovators participate in these communities because they care about professional standards, industry trends and accountability.
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Do they welcome due diligence? Ask to speak to at least three recent clients, ideally from the last 12 months, and whose projects were comparable in scope to yours. A reputable renovator will gladly provide references – bonus points if you’re invited to see a past project in person!
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Will they help you understand the numbers? Renovation quotes can vary significantly and for good reason. While a lower estimate might seem appealing, it's essential to know what that price includes: Quality materials, for example? Floor and property protection? Dust control? How will they manage noise or family disruptions? Good contractors will walk you through the why behind the price, with transparency around the costing and clear communication – before and during the project.
Be cautious about a well-meaning 'friend referral'
While referrals can be a great way to connect with a potential contractor, cost-related references like “He did our friend’s deck and was super cheap!” can equal low oversight and limited experience – that so-called “deal” can quickly morph into budget overruns, delays and stress. By choosing a contractor based on reputation, transparency and professionalism – not only price point – you're more likely to enjoy a renovation you'll love for years to come.
To learn how the MAC Reno Design Build team can help you create a home you'll love today and tomorrow, visit macreno.com or call them at 250-384-6091.