How to Hire a Contractor

While you may fancy yourself a regular Bob Vila, when it comes down to it you probably don’t have the time (or, frankly, the expertise) to undertake a big job. We spoke with handyman extraordinaire Mike Holmes to get the lowdown on hiring, haggling and getting the results you want.

 

How do you find the right contractor for the job?

MH: Do your homework. If you know how to do the job right, you’ll learn quickly who doesn’t. A good contractor will explain step-by-step what they’re going to do and will give you options, and tell you the difference between them.

How much room is there for haggling?

MH: If they’re good, not much. Materials and labour cost money, so when a good contractor quotes you on a job, that’s how much it costs—not more, not less. And good work isn’t cheap. If one quotes $20,000-$30,000, and another quotes you for $10,000, the latter is either going to make you pay more once the work starts—usually after they’ve demoed your house—or their work is crap.

So you’re stuck with the price you’re dealt?

MH: There are ways to bring down the cost, but it’s coming out of the materials and/or the quality of the work. The saying, “you get what you pay for” is true. If price is an issue you can ask for different options, and how different products and materials will affect the quality of the work. A good contractor will work with you to make sure you get the quality you expect on budget. But don’t expect a brand new kitchen that’s built right for $10,000—realistically, it’s about $20,000 to $40,000.

How involved should you be in the process?

MH: Don’t question every move they make, but be involved so they know that you’ve done your homework and that you care. If the project is a big one, schedule weekly site meetings with your contractor. If it’s small, speak to them daily to ask about the progress.

Any advice regarding contracts?

MH: Put everything in writing—and I mean EVERYTHING, from supplies, materials and products to the subcontractors they’ll be using. Your contract should be clear and easy to read. It should have a start and finish date, a detailed payment schedule—based on work completed, not time. And make sure somewhere in the contract it says that you won’t pay a penny more, unless you agree to it in writing.