Contractor FAQ
Hiring a general contractor in Surrey
What contractors do, pricing models, checking credentials, holdbacks, permits and change orders.
What does a general contractor do on a renovation? j
A general contractor takes responsibility for delivering the project: planning the schedule, hiring and supervising the trades, ordering materials, obtaining permits, booking inspections, managing the budget and handling problems as they come up. You deal with one company instead of coordinating each trade yourself.
Do I need a general contractor, or can I hire the trades myself? i
For a small, single-trade job, hiring the trade directly can work. Once a project involves several trades, permits or structural work, a general contractor usually saves time and mistakes, because gaps between trades, rework and scheduling delays are where do-it-yourself management costs the most.
How do renovation contractors price their work? i
The three common models are a fixed price for a defined scope, cost-plus, where you pay actual costs plus an agreed fee, and a construction management fee on larger projects. Fixed price gives the most budget certainty. Whatever the model, make sure the contract says how changes are priced before the work begins.
How do I know a contractor is legitimate? i
Ask for a WorkSafeBC clearance letter, proof of liability insurance, a business licence valid for Surrey, a detailed written contract and recent references. Be cautious of large cash deposits, no written contract, or reluctance to take out permits.
What is the 10% holdback on a BC renovation? i
Under BC's Builders Lien Act, owners generally hold back 10% of the value of work for a period after completion, to protect against liens from unpaid subcontractors and suppliers. The rules have specific timelines and details, so confirm how they apply to your project with a lawyer or the contract, and we will explain how our payment schedule handles it.
Who is responsible for permits on my project? i
When you hire us as your general contractor, we apply for and manage the permits and inspections required for the work, and the contract says so. Always confirm this in writing with any contractor, because unpermitted work can cause problems with insurance and resale.
What is an aging-in-place renovation? i
It is a set of changes that let someone live safely and independently at home as they get older, such as step-free entries, a main-floor bedroom and bathroom, wider doorways, lever handles, better lighting and
accessible bathrooms. It can be done all at once or in stages.
How are changes handled once the project has started? i
Changes are normal, especially once walls are opened. Every change is written up as a change order with its cost and effect on the schedule, and approved by you before the work is done, so the budget never drifts without your knowledge.
How do I get started with a general contractor? i
Use the
project estimate form or call
(604) 649-5404. Describe the project and share any plans. We follow up with a first estimate, visit the site, and then provide a detailed estimate and contract.
