We have found that all too often, clients don’t ask their contractor about the details of their project and the construction process. They often select their contractor based on the cheapest initial price, which results in the project costing more in the end because they didn’t check the “fine-print”, clarify potential “extras” or there is miscommunication on what was to be completed or the quality of work and materials reflects the low initial estimate price.
Some of the most common issues we have seen include:
- Clients not receiving the detailed project they envisioned because of miscommunication.
We avoid that by providing our clients a document with specific Project Details. - Not understanding the difference in the quality of products and materials being used.
Some contractors use low-grade materials to keep their price down, resulting in a project that isn’t constructed with longevity and may cost you more to repair later. Also, some contractors are uneducated on which aggregate or stone products to use on different subsoil applications in their base installation. - Choosing a contractor who does not show pride in their work.
- Having a team on your property who aren’t particularly polite, friendly or pleasant to deal with.
- Clients not understanding their warranty and the contracting company not being fully insured (in case of an unforeseen incident on your property).
EXPENSIVE EXPERIENCE
WORKMANSHIP
a. To determine that the contractor takes pride in their work and knows what they are doing, ask to see examples of past projects (e.g. a gallery on their website, or printed flyers of their work).
b. Does their work show that they have quality workmanship as a high priority?
c. Do they provide a warranty for the materials?
EXPERIENCE & INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE
a. How long has the contractor been in the industry?
b. Does the contractor take pride in the industry? Is education and innovation a high priority for their company?
c. Are they certified or registered with any known trade associations, e.g. Landscape Landscape Ontario or Unilock Authorized Contractor?
SUBCONTRACTING
a. Does your contractor construct every aspect of the project themselves in-house?
b. Or do they have a network “team” of highly skilled subcontractors specializing in their field of work, and making sure those are organized?
DOCUMENTATION
a. Do they have liability insurance in case of any damages to your property or persons?
b. Will they provide specific details outlining the project?
c. Will they take care of all required permits prior to any construction, e.g. Ontario One-Call to locate pipes, wires and cables?
d. Will they prepare a detailed contract for both parties to sign, so you can ensure you end up getting what was agreed on?
TIMELINE
a. How soon would the contractor be able to start on your project?
b. How long would it take to complete?
c. Will they guarantee their start and finish dates?
PREPARATION & MATERIALS
a. What do they propose to do on your property to prepare for an installation, e.g. would any trees or existing landscaping need to be removed?
b. Ask about the quality in materials being used for your project.
- What aggregate materials are used for the base and how much? This all depends on your subsoil type, e.g. clay, topsoil or sand?
- What quality of pavers or wall products are being installed, does it have colour protection?
- Are they performing correct installation practices in line with ICPI or industry standards?
COMPATIBILITY
a. Can you see yourself working with this contractor?
b. Do they communicate clearly?
c. Do you feel you can trust them?
d. Who would be your day-to-day point person during construction?
FINE-PRINT
a. Make sure you read the fine-print and understand what is or isn’t included in the proposal and final invoice.
b. Ask about payment terms, e.g. when are payments due, and can you pay by credit card or cheque.
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