A written contract helps protect you from potential problems such as loss of deposit or overcharging. Without a contract and a written warranty, there is little you can do about poor quality or incomplete work. A contract doesn’t have to be complicated. For simple repairs, it could only be a page long. For bigger projects, information such as drawings and specifications will also be needed. Although the following list is not comprehensive, it provides examples of the information that should be in all contracts:

• The name, address and telephone number of the contractor
• A full description of the work and the materials and products to be used
• When the work will start and be completed
• How much you will be charged for the work and when you will have to pay
• The amount of payment you will hold back as required by B.C. lien legislation
• The contractor’s warranty detailing what is covered and for how long
• A certificate from an insurance company proving that the contractor carries business liability insurance
• A letter of clearance from the WCB of BC confirming the contractor is registered and is paying WCB premiums. You should obtain the letter before work begins, and again before you make the final payment to the contractor
• The contractor’s Business, GST or PST number
• The contractor’s license number issued by the Homeowner Protection Office if they are constructing a new home or undertaking applicable building envelope renovations.