HOW TO HIRE THE BEST RENOVATION CREW

In today’s construction landscape, choosing the right tradespeople can make or break a project. As someone deeply invested in creating quality spaces, I’ve occasionally ignored my inner voice telling me to avoid certain hires. Maybe they’re new and I want to give them a chance, or they come highly recommended. But ultimately, I care about each hire because these individuals are entering your home—your private space. When I see an issue, I won’t hesitate to replace the wrong person to ensure the right one finishes the job.

However, finding reliable tradespeople has become increasingly challenging in this digital era, with many experienced trades retiring and fewer young people joining the industry. This text offers my insights on identifying quality professionals and managing a well-coordinated construction team, where everyone’s role is crucial to a successful project.

I’m not here to say, “Beware of all,” but please, beware of most. The quieter, humbler ones often have the most to offer. Their ego doesn’t overshadow their work—they take pride in doing their best without needing to boast. On the other hand, those who shout the loudest, seem overly confident, and are quick to proclaim their skill often raise red flags. In my experience, the louder the talk, the less the talent. We should be drawn to those with quiet confidence—those who know their worth without needing to broadcast it. Don’t get me wrong; I admire confidence and people who are secure in their skills. But there’s a fine line between self-assured and overbearing, and that line is exactly what I seek.

Back to construction. Recently, we completed a full home remodel, coordinating over twenty different trades. After living and working in Penticton, British Columbia, for about six years, we thought we had our professional crew set for each step of the process. Each trade must arrive at the precise time, sometimes with two or three on-site the same day, to avoid leaving the job site open for six months. Each person’s work is as crucial as the next, and all tasks are intricately connected.

If one person falls short, the ripple effect can delay the project for days, weeks, or even months. Everyone is busy and tied to other contracts, and our job is scheduled for specific days with little room for delay. When the time comes, the work has to happen. As contractors, we can’t tolerate laziness or carelessness. Construction has its share of unexpected surprises and uncontrollable delays. Does this resonate with you?

Construction is one of humanity’s oldest professions, and we often take for granted that tradespeople will perform their work safely and professionally. But trust me—not all tradespeople are created equal. Some are true professionals, passionate about their craft, while others are in it for the paycheck or due to circumstance. The difference is often evident.

As a homeowner, finding the right tradesperson for the job can be daunting. The best professionals are frequently booked up or tied to contractors with limited availability.

To help you navigate this process, here are a few essential steps to take before hiring any tradesperson, designer, or contractor. Doing your due diligence will go a long way in ensuring a smooth, successful project.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:

1. Get references—and call them:
   Request references and follow up with each. If a tradesperson won’t provide references or lacks contacts for you to call, consider it a red flag. While exceptions may apply for newcomers or those starting out, trust your gut. Ask friends and family about their experiences, but ensure their standards align with yours to avoid disappointment. If hiring friends or family, have an honest discussion about boundaries, needs, and expectations. 
2. Consider availability:
   Trades that are immediately available could signal caution. If your project is off-season, like a fireplace remodel in spring, you might find reputable trades with more availability.
3. Trust your instincts:
   Listen to your intuition, whether it’s telling you to move forward or to think twice. That instinct often signals what words can’t.
4. Verify licensing and certifications:
   Ensure the tradesperson or contractor holds the appropriate licenses and certifications for the work they’ll be performing. License requirements vary by location, so confirm they meet local standards. This step guarantees they have the necessary training and qualifications.
5. Verify insurance and liability:
   Confirm that your tradesperson or contractor is insured. If not, you may need to sign a waiver for liability.
6. Always use plans and drawings:
   Visual plans add clarity, as words alone can sometimes be misinterpreted. Even a handmade plan on a napkin is better than nothing.
7. Put agreements in writing:
   Ensure all job details are in writing, whether in a formal contract or an informal quote. Clear documentation avoids misunderstandings about what is and isn’t included.
8. Evaluate the quote carefully:
   The lowest quote may mean a faster job but could lack attention to detail. Know your priorities and don’t compromise on quality for cost alone.
9. Request a detailed timeline:
   Ask for a clear timeline that outlines key project milestones and completion dates. This helps manage expectations and keeps everyone accountable, reducing the risk of delays or misunderstandings.
10. Set boundaries early:
    Address finer details upfront, like rules on music, smoking, evening or weekend shifts, bathroom usage, and any restrictions on visitors to the job site. Setting boundaries from the start prevents issues later.

Construction sometimes gets a bad reputation, and I can’t blame you. Even as a professional, I occasionally encounter the odd one out. If you’ve been through a renovation or new build once or twice and ended up with the wrong crew, it’s understandable if the experience left you feeling drained and exhausted.

But with the right team, building and renovating can be incredibly rewarding. There’s something almost magical about transforming raw materials into a beautiful, functional space that enhances your daily life and energizes you in your new home.

If you’re unsure about navigating the process, consider hiring a trusted contractor with a reliable, bonded crew. This can save you time, energy, and money—and make your renovation a genuinely enjoyable experience.

Ready to start? Perfect! Let’s provide you with some trusted references to get you going!