Whether you are working on your primary home or a cottage, choosing a local builder has numerous advantages. Local builders understand local conditions, Ontario’s codes and regulations, and they have the contacts and resources non-local firms lack. Choosing local can also help you avoid unwanted surprises and ensure a smoother build process.
Let’s find out why choosing a local builder can be one of the smartest decisions homeowners make in Ontario.
Why Local Builders Matter
The following are just a few of the top reasons why choosing a local builder is crucial for your home project.
They Understand Local Building Codes and Permit Requirements
Ontario’s building rules vary depending on the municipality, zoning issues, environmental regulations and more.
Experienced local builders know how to navigate these bylaws and gain the required permit approvals. They also understand how to move past any potential setbacks quickly.
Whether it’s a new build, a major renovation or a large-scale addition, you will want a builder that has an in-depth understanding of the Ontario Building Code (OBC).
Not only do you want to ensure that you are choosing a builder who understands compliance requirements, but you will also want a builder who knows how long these processes take.
Knowing how to prepare applications and avoid delays will help keep your project to a realistic timeline.
They Have Knowledge of Ontario’s Climate Challenges
Beyond understanding the legal framework, local builders also understand the unique challenges posed by Ontario’s climate.
From the freeze and thaw cycles of the province’s winter season to insulation requirements for new-builds and additions, going local ensures that the work is not delayed due to unforeseen seasonal issues and that the work is actually suitable for the needs of the region where you live.
Being able to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your foundations, windows, roofing, and siding will all endure Ontario’s distinct seasons can be reason enough to choose local professionals.
Faster Communication and Greater Accountability
When you choose a local builder, they are almost always more accessible than non-locals.
This can translate to more frequent site visits and easier access for consultations and meetings. If issues arise, such as weather delays or material shortages, a local builder can also react more quickly than professionals who are not accustomed to these types of local challenges.
Another important thing to remember is that a local builder will always be more concerned with their reputation within the community.
When you choose a national firm, rather than a local builder, they’re not going to be nearly as concerned with how they are perceived in the immediate vicinity.
For local builders, accountability matters. Any sort of shoddy craftsmanship or work that leaves their clients unsatisfied will seriously impact their reputation and bottom line. This can result in higher-quality work and more in-depth follow-ups once the job is complete.
Local Supplier Networks
An Ontario builder who works locally is much more likely to have established relationships with local suppliers and tradespeople.
This can result in faster deliveries, preferred prices on materials and even lower overall labour costs, as the work can be completed faster when they already know which skilled tradespeople they will be working with.
Having established relationships also means that you’re taking fewer risks when it comes to the quality of the work. A builder isn’t going to work with any tradesperson if they do not know that the work will be completed in a timely way and to a professional standard.
More Accurate Cost Estimates
If you’re choosing a builder who is unfamiliar with local time constraints and challenges, it will be more difficult for them to provide an accurate estimate of costs and the overall timeline.
By going local, you are giving yourself a much better chance of avoiding surprises and delays.
If maintenance or repairs are ever required in the future due to wear and tear or an accident, having a local builder whom you can easily contact and rely on can be incredibly helpful.
You Support Your Local Community
When you hire local builders, your investment stays in your community. While this isn’t always important to everyone from a moral standpoint, building practical connections with people in your community can pay off in unexpected ways.
Let’s say your local builder brings in a local plumber to complete some of the plumbing work. The next time you encounter a plumbing emergency, you’ll already have the contact information for a trusted plumber.
Enjoy the Benefits of a Local Builder Today
Working with a local builder in Ontario can ensure that your project is completed professionally and within budget.
Since 2003, DeCarli Contractors has built hundreds of fine homes and cottages in the North Simcoe community. You can enjoy this local expertise and the benefits that come with it during your next home project.
