Hiring a Contractor - Step by Step

  1. If you have been referred by someone in the industry, or better still a previous client, you likely have a good option.
  2. Ask reputable suppliers about them.
  3. Investigate and check credentials (Do they have WCB, a GST#, a business licence, installation certifications, are they a member of BBB, etc...)
  4. Look at their website if they have one.
  5. How many years have they been in business?
  6. What do they have in their portfolio? Do you like their work, do they pay attention to details?
  7. When you meet with them...
    • Do they show up on time for the quote?
    • Do they spend time and show they care about your project?  (People who show an interest in your project generally like what they do and will care more about the quality of their work.)
    • Are they easy to understand and discuss things with? (This will likely make working with them much easier)
    • Do they talk to you like a salesman or do they seem to care more about quality and your project? 
    • Do they explain the process and standards of construction? 
    • Do they assess and discuss drainage issues with you?  (One major factor in the permanence of the project)
    • Do they have references?
    • Do they have a foreman on site or is the owner there personally? 
    • Don’t ask for a price on the spot.  It’s not fair to you or the contractor.  Let them figure out your quote and get it back to you in a timely manner (3 -5 business days) 
    • When you get the quote does it outline important factors like the depth of the road crush base, paver edge restraints, the use of regular or polymeric sand and the use of weeping tile and washed rock behind retaining walls?  Does it include clean up and removal of materials? Does it look professional?
  8. Once you have had a chance to review your quote, contact your contractor immediately to ensure a start date for your project as our short work season books up quickly.