Handling Disagreements With Your Contractor

Regardless how carefully you try to avoid conflicts and disagreements, they are sometimes unavoidable. If a disagreement between you and your contractor does develop, do the following:

• Set a time free from distractions when you and your contractor can get together; avoid trying to resolve conflicts on site, in front of others.
• Go over the contract together in an attempt to resolve the issue.
• Remain calm; request that the contractor do the same.
• Listen to the contractor’s side of the issue without interruption; request that the contractor do the same for you.
• Try and be flexible when the difference in opinion does not affect the quality, function, appearance, timely completion of the project, or else unnecessarily add to the cost.
• If the situation does not get resolved, seek the opinion from someone knowledgeable.
• If the situation persists and is serious enough, discuss the situation with your lawyer.

The most common project problems that arise during the project include: unsatisfactory workmanship, delays, and misunderstandings. If the contractor is behind schedule due to a purposeful failure to honor the agreed upon work schedule (as outlined in the contract), insist they adhere to it.

If they refuse, and if permitted by your province, send them a registered letter threatening to cancel the contract and seek refund of the down payment. Note within the letter that a copy has been sent to the consumer protections department of your local government, and/or the contractor’s bonding company.

Poor workmanship can be reported to the government department from which the contractor obtained their license; if deemed appropriate, necessary action will be taken.

If you feel some aspects of the project are not being completed up to local or Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) standards, or America’s national or local building code requirements, report it in writing to the appropriate inspection department. The contractor will be forced to make necessary corrections at their own expense if they are found to be in violation of code requirements.

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The Comprehensive Guide to Home Renovations