BEWARE... during economically challenging times there tends to be an increase of "carpenters" around.
Many people don't realize that Carpentry is a voluntary trade. This means that you don't have to be trained or tested on the Building Code, on best practices or on skills to call yourself a carpenter. It also means that anyone with any level of knowledge, or no knowledge at all, can call themselves a carpenter.
Ensure that you are protected.
1. Ask your carpenter if they are licenced. It doesn't mean they run a good business but it does mean they had to work under another licenced carpenter for 3-4 years and pass a Provincially regulated test.
2. Ask for references, and follow up on them.
3. Look at a portfolio of their work.
4. Be sure they are operating with appropriate insurance. 2 million is the recommended minimum. They can provide you with a Certificate of Insurance for free from their broker.
5. Ask them if they are going to be the constructor. If they are not the constructor (a legal term in contracts) then you are liable for any accidents.
6. Ask what is their warranty. 2 years is normal for renovation work.
Always be concerned if:
1. They are available right away
2. They accept cash as payment. It is difficult to operate a legitimate business on cash.
3. Printed plans are not produced.
4. The discussion of a permit doesn't come up.
5. Be VERY concerned if they do plumbing and electrical work too.
I have always found it odd that you MUST be licenced to do electrical, plumbing, HVAC and many other trades, but the provincial and federal governments don't have any concern about who builds the structure around those systems.
Above Board Carpentry has committed itself to the training and licencing of staff. Make sure your project is being completed by a company with the same values. ... See more
