Hiring the wrong contractor can turn your dream renovation into a nightmare. Every year, Saskatoon homeowners lose thousands to unfinished projects, shoddy work, and outright scams. This guide will protect you with the exact questions to ask and red flags to watch for.
The Stakes Are Real
According to consumer protection studies, 1 in 10 homeowners falls victim to contractor scams, losing an average of $2,426. In renovation projects, a bad contractor can cost you tens of thousands in repairs, delays, and legal fees.
Before You Start: Get Multiple Quotes
Never hire the first contractor you meet. Get at least 3 written quotes from different contractors. This helps you understand the fair market price for your project and gives you options to compare.
When quotes vary significantly (more than 20%), ask why. A much lower quote might mean the contractor is cutting corners, using inferior materials, or doesn't fully understand the scope. A much higher quote might indicate premium materials or the contractor is too busy for your project.
15 Essential Questions to Ask Every Contractor
Licensing & Insurance
- 1"Are you licensed to work in Saskatoon?"
In Saskatchewan, contractors don't require a provincial license, but they should be registered as a business. Ask for their business number and verify it.
- 2"Do you have liability insurance? Can I see the certificate?"
A legitimate contractor will have at least $2 million in liability coverage. Ask for a certificate of insurance—not just a claim that they're insured.
- 3"Are you registered with WCB (Workers' Compensation Board)?"
WCB coverage protects you if a worker is injured on your property. Without it, you could be held liable for medical costs and lost wages.
Experience & References
- 4"How long have you been in business?"
Look for at least 3-5 years of experience. Newer contractors aren't necessarily bad, but established businesses have proven they can deliver and survive.
- 5"Can I see 3 recent projects similar to mine?"
Photos are good, but visiting completed projects in person is better. Ask to speak with those homeowners about their experience.
- 6"Can I have 3 references from the past year?"
Recent references reflect the contractor's current team and practices. Ask each reference: "Would you hire them again?"
Project Management
- 7"Who will be on-site daily? Will you be there?"
Know who your primary contact will be. Some contractors sell jobs then disappear, leaving you with crews you've never met.
- 8"Do you use subcontractors? Which trades?"
Most contractors use subs for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Ask how long they've worked with their subs and whether they're insured.
- 9"Will you handle all permits and inspections?"
A professional contractor handles permits. If they ask YOU to pull permits, they may not be properly registered or are avoiding accountability.
Timeline & Payment
- 10"When can you start, and what's the realistic timeline?"
Be wary of contractors who can start "tomorrow"—good contractors are usually booked weeks in advance. Get the timeline in writing with milestones.
- 11"What's your payment schedule?"
A standard schedule is 10-15% deposit, progress payments tied to milestones, and final payment after completion. Never pay more than 20% upfront.
- 12"How do you handle change orders?"
Changes happen in every renovation. Ensure all changes are documented in writing with updated pricing BEFORE work proceeds.
Contract & Warranty
- 13"Will you provide a detailed written contract?"
Never start work without a written contract specifying scope, materials, timeline, payment schedule, and what happens if things go wrong.
- 14"What warranty do you offer on your work?"
Look for at least a 1-year workmanship warranty. Understand what's covered and what's not. Get it in writing.
- 15"What happens if I'm not satisfied with something?"
A good contractor will explain their process for addressing concerns. This answer reveals how they handle problems.
Get a Transparent Quote from Meadow Contracting
We welcome all these questions. Licensed, insured, WCB covered, and 150+ projects completed in Saskatoon. Let us earn your trust.
Get Free QuoteRed Flags: Warning Signs of Bad Contractors
Walk away immediately if you see any of these warning signs:
Asking for 50%+ upfront or cash-only payments is a major red flag. They may take the money and never return.
Verbal agreements protect no one. Legitimate contractors always provide detailed written contracts.
"This price is only good today" is a scam tactic. Good contractors give you time to decide.
If they only have a phone number and PO Box, they can disappear easily. Look for a real business address.
"We're working in your neighborhood" or "I noticed your roof needs work" are classic scam openings.
Professional contractors have company vehicles with their name and contact information. U-Hauls and unmarked vans are red flags.
Where to Verify Saskatoon Contractors
- Better Business Bureau (BBB): Check for complaints and ratings at bbb.org
- Google Reviews: Look for patterns in reviews, both positive and negative
- Saskatoon & Region Home Builders' Association (SRHBA): Members must meet professional standards
- WCB Saskatchewan: Verify WCB registration at wcbsask.com
- City of Saskatoon: Check if they've pulled permits for previous jobs
Trust Your Gut
If something feels off, it probably is. A contractor who gets defensive about questions, avoids eye contact, or makes you feel rushed is not someone you want in your home for weeks.
Ready to Renovate with Confidence?
Meadow Contracting is fully licensed, insured, and WCB covered. We've completed 150+ projects in Saskatoon and welcome you to check our references.
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