It doesn’t matter whether you’re building a custom home from scratch, adding an addition, or completing a major remodel; working with a licensed contractor is essential to the success of your project. Your contractor directly impacts the outcome of your renovation.
Many homeowners are reluctant to invest in a licensed contractor because of the associated cost. Unfortunately, this poses a high risk of negatively impacting your project. Working with unqualified contractors can delay your timeline and affect the safety and quality of your project.
If you’re embarking on a home build or renovation and you want to do everything you can to ensure the project goes smoothly, working with a licensed contractor is a must. Here’s what you need to know about working with experienced professionals.
What Does It Mean To Be a Licensed Contractor?
The term “licensed contractor” can mean different things based on your location, but it generally means the contractor is an experienced professional who has met the legal requirements necessary to operate within the requirements of their jurisdiction.
In most cases, this means they’ve met the licensing requirements for their trade and for operating a business, are adequately insured, and are in compliance with provincial and local regulations. For contractors, it also means they work only with other licensed professionals, including electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians and more.
Hiring a licensed contractor doesn’t guarantee the work done on the project will be perfect, but it vastly reduces the risks associated with building projects because, to stay licensed, contractors must adhere to strict codes.
Code Compliance
Every major renovation, whether it’s a build-from-scratch, an addition, or a renovation, must comply with the Ontario Building Code. This code establishes minimum standards for:
- Structural integrity
- Fire safety
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing
- Ventilation
- Insulation
- Energy efficiency
The goal of a building code is to protect occupants. When a building is built to meet code standards, it’s safer, more durable and structurally sound. Experienced contractors ensure that their projects meet these standards.
Failing to meet building codes can delay projects and lead to costly corrections. If lapses aren’t discovered until years after the project is complete, they can delay home sales, complicate insurance coverage, and require extensive repairs. Most concerning, it can create an unsafe environment that puts occupants at risk.
Tarion Registration
One of the terms you’ll hear when exploring licensed contractors and building code issues is Tarion registration.
Tarion is an organization that oversees Ontario’s new home warranty program. Contractors offering a warranty program on a new home or substantial rebuild must be registered with Tarion.
Not every contractor is required to have a Tarion registration, but those who are have met specific requirements and have been granted the right to participate in Ontario’s warranty program. The warranty program provides coverage for defects in:
- Workmanship
- Materials
- Major structural issues
- Miscellaneous warranty items
By working with a Tarion contractor, you enjoy greater protection and peace of mind. If you’re considering a custom home build, verify whether the contractor is Tarion-registered before you sign a contract or commit to any work.
Why Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor is a Risk
You might think it’s enough for a contractor to have a lot of experience or to appear qualified, even if they aren’t licensed. Unfortunately, this is not a risk worth taking. Working with an unlicensed contractor can create problems that extend beyond the completion of your project.
Risks associated with working with an unlicensed contractor include:
- Structural deficiencies that lead to costly repairs
- Electrical or plumbing work that fails inspection
- Project delays due to poor planning
- Cost overruns from mistakes
- Difficulty obtaining warranty support or accountability
Correcting mistakes can be expensive and time-consuming. Working with a licensed contractor reduces this risk and ensures you’ll be protected in the rare event that something goes wrong.
Do You Need a Licensed Contractor?
If you’re embarking on a home renovation or building from scratch, it’s essential to work with an experienced and licensed professional. This one decision at the beginning of your project can help determine its overall quality, safety and long-term success.
DeCarli Contractors is registered with Tarion Warrantee Corporation (Reg. # 36161), which means every home we build comes with a warrantee backed by Tarion. If you’re ready to work with a contractor who has over 20 years of experience and 500+ satisfied customers, give us a call.
