I’ve been hearing horror stories about builders who don’t show up on time or go way over budget, and I’m getting anxious about starting my own renovation project. I’ve asked friends and family for referrals, but I’d love to hear from others who have recently worked with builders in the Toronto area. What are some red flags to watch out for when hiring a builder, and how can I ensure that my project stays on track? Are there any specific questions I should be asking potential builders to gauge their reliability and expertise?
I’ve seen my fair share of projects go sideways due to poor planning or communication. A big red flag is if a builder can’t provide a clear, detailed scope of work and timeline, or if they’re evasive about their subcontractors and suppliers. To gauge reliability, ask about their process for handling changes to the original plan, and what kind of contingency planning they do for unexpected issues. You should also ask for references from recent projects and check online reviews, but take them with a grain of salt - some guys are great with clients but struggle with actual work. Be sure to also ask about their liability insurance and WSIB coverage.
