You’ve decided to enlarge your family room, upgrade to a deluxe spa-inspired bathroom, or turn your dowdy kitchen into a gourmet’s heaven. Here’s how to find someone who can make it a reality.

Just how do you find a contractor who can get the job done right? It’s a matter of knowing what you want, doing some homework and getting it in writing.

Pinpoint what you want. This may sound easy, but getting what you want means being able to communicate it correctly - and that can be tough. Start a file with magazine clippings, snapshots of the room you’re imagining (even if it’s in a chic boutique hotel), and any architectural drawings or plans that you may have commissioned or scribbled on the back of a napkin.

Know who you’re going to call. Who does your project require: a tradesperson, specialty contractor or professional renovator? If you’re looking to upgrade your heating/air conditioning, look for a tradesperson; specialty contractor will specialize in a certain area of home improvement (such as basements or kitchens); and a professional renovator is expert with major home projects such as additions or reconfiguring the layout of your home. If you’ve completely had it with your digs and want to start fresh, a custom homebuilder will get the job done.

Start a list of potentials. Getting referrals from friends and family is a great way to start your hunt for a contractor who is right for the job at hand. But it’s wise to explore other sources for contractors such as contacting the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (www.chba.ca), visiting a home show, or simply checking your local Yellow Pages.

Get to know your list. Once you’re reviewed your list, arrange to meet your favourite potentials in person and get to know more about their company. Ask about their professional history, if they’ve completed other projects that are similar to your own, and review their portfolio. You’ll also want to get (and check!) references.

Price your project. Get more than one professional to bid on your renovation. This can be tricky since you want to make sure all of the bidders have the same information about what you want done. That’s the only way you’ll be able to compare the bids accurately. All bidders should have a list of plans and specifications customized for your project. Make sure you include any plans or drawings providing measurements, details about the materials you want used such as flooring or countertops, and any other specifics you’re sure about. You’ll also want to let them know the extent of their involvement in your renovation; for example, will you paint or expect it to be done for you.

Get a contract. Once you’ve decided whom you want to hire, the contractor will draw up a detailed contract. While contracts can be daunting and lengthy, make sure you agree with everything specified before you sign on the dotted line. If there are things missing, insist that the contract be revised. Remember that even after signing a contract and the work has begun, you can still change your mind and make amendments. (This, however, may add extra fees to your project so be weary about on-the-spot decisions.) Warranty information will also be included - something that may save you headaches down the road.

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association has made available a large resource of valuable information for consumers looking to hire a contractor. Their website, Get it in Writing!, at www.hiringacontractor.com is packed with information about finding and hiring a contractor, detailed worksheets to help you with the interview process and checking reference, and all you need to know about contracts and how they work. It’s a must visit for anyone looking to improve their digs.

(Source: HGTV)

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