Hiring Contractors
Questions about finding, vetting, and working with contractors in Greater Calgary, including WCB Alberta and Safety Codes Council verification
Should I finish a basement bathroom myself or hire out the plumbing and do the drywall myself?
For a basement bathroom, you should definitely hire a licensed plumber for all plumbing work and can tackle the drywall yourself if you have basic DIY...
My contractor says we need a structural engineer for a load-bearing wall removal in our 1912 heritage home in Mission. Is that normal?
Yes, absolutely normal and required. Removing any load-bearing wall requires a structural engineer's assessment and stamped drawings, especially in a...
Should I DIY install smart thermostats on a multi-zone radiant floor system or hire an HVAC technician?
You should hire a licensed HVAC technician for smart thermostat installation on a multi-zone radiant floor system. While single-zone forced air thermo...
How do you find a contractor in Calgary who knows heritage window restoration for designated properties in Sunnyside or Rosedale?
Finding a heritage window restoration specialist in Calgary requires targeting contractors who specifically understand the strict requirements for des...
How do I find a plumber in Calgary who is experienced with backflow preventer installations for commercial kitchens?
Finding a plumber experienced with commercial backflow preventer installations requires looking for specific certifications and commercial experience,...
My contractor poured my patio in direct sun in July, and now it's spalling. Is this on them or bad luck?
This is almost certainly on your contractor. Pouring concrete in direct sun during Calgary's hot July weather without proper protection is a fundament...
We replaced all our windows last year, and the house is still drafty in January. What did the contractor miss?
Even with new windows, drafts can persist if the installation wasn't done properly or if other air leakage points weren't addressed. The most common c...
Should I hire a structural engineer before underpinning my basement or just trust the contractor?
You absolutely should hire a structural engineer before any underpinning work in Calgary. This isn't optional — it's essential for safety, code compli...
How do you verify a contractor is properly licensed and insured before signing a bathroom renovation contract in Acadia?
Before signing any bathroom renovation contract in Acadia, verify your contractor holds valid permits, carries proper insurance, and is registered wit...
Does my contractor actually require 4-foot frost footings for a new garage in Calgary?
Yes, your contractor absolutely must install footings below the frost line, which in Calgary is typically 4+ feet (1.2 meters) deep. This isn't option...
DIY install LVP flooring on main floor or hire installer for better warranty?
Most homeowners can successfully DIY install LVP flooring on their main floor, and you'll typically get the same manufacturer warranty whether you ins...
How do I find a contractor experienced with post-flood rebuilds in Sunnyside and Hillhurst?
Finding contractors experienced with post-flood rebuilds in Sunnyside and Hillhurst requires targeting professionals who understand Calgary's unique f...
How do I find a contractor in Calgary who specializes in character home renovations without ruining original features in Hillhurst?
Finding a contractor who specializes in character home renovations in Calgary requires looking for professionals with demonstrated experience in herit...
Our general contractor filed for bankruptcy mid-project. What are our rights under the Builders' Lien Act to recover deposits in Alberta?
In Alberta, your rights are protected under the Prompt Payment and Construction Lien Act (PPCLA), not the Builders' Lien Act. When a general contracto...
What questions should I ask contractors bidding on a full gut job of a 1950s bungalow in Mount Pleasant?
When vetting contractors for a full gut renovation of a 1950s Mount Pleasant bungalow, focus on experience with heritage-era homes, permit coordinatio...
What contractors in Calgary specialize in universal design for aging in place renovations?
Universal design and aging-in-place renovations require specialized contractors who understand both accessibility codes and the unique needs of older...
Does anyone recommend a good HVAC contractor in Dalhousie who is honest about whether you actually need a new furnace?
Finding an honest HVAC contractor in Calgary who won't oversell you is crucial — look for established companies with strong reputations who provide de...
What is the best gravel base depth for a concrete driveway on clay soil in Cranston? My contractor said 6 inches, but I heard 12 inches is better?
Your contractor's recommendation of 6 inches is likely adequate for most Calgary residential driveways, but 12 inches would provide superior long-term...
What is the best gravel base for a concrete driveway on clay soil in Cranston? My contractor said 6 inches, but I heard 12 inches is recommended?
Your contractor's 6-inch recommendation is likely insufficient for Calgary's expansive clay soils, especially in newer communities like Cranston. For...