1. The licence, for any new home
Anyone building a new home for someone else in BC must be a Licensed Residential Builder. Check them on BC Housing’s public registry; our guide shows how.
2. A WorkSafeBC clearance letter
A clearance letter from WorkSafeBC shows whether a contractor is registered and paying premiums. If a contractor you hire doesn’t pay their premiums while working for you, you could be held jointly liable for them. You can get one through WorkSafeBC’s website.
3. Insurance
Ask for proof of liability insurance before work starts.
4. A written scope and estimate
Get the scope of work, the price and the payment schedule in writing, and agree any changes in writing too.
5. Who handles the permits
Agree in writing who applies for permits and books inspections. Work that needed a permit and didn’t get one can cause problems when you sell, insure or renovate later.
6. Reviews and past work
Read their Google reviews, ask to see finished work, and ask for references. A good builder is happy to share them.
With Kalsira Homes
Kalsira Homes Ltd. is licence #55417 with BC Housing and is insured, estimates are free, and references from past clients are available on request.
Sources
- WorkSafeBC: information for homeowners
- WorkSafeBC: get a clearance letter
- BC Housing: public registry of Licensed Residential Builders
General information, not legal advice. Rules change, so check with your city before you build.