By Educator
Roof to be repaired, pipes to be consolidated, insulation to be redone… Each season has its share of renovation work. However, it is better to do it the right way: renovation work is regulated by law, even if you use a professional.
Éducaloi is a charitable organization that explains, in everyday words, the rights, obligations, and various legal aspects that affect the daily lives of Quebecers. Sun Life Financial is proud to collaborate with Éducaloi because in matters of law as well as in the management of personal finances, Knowledge is power!
- Do you have the right to do this work?
Even if you own your home, you can’t do everything you want when working. Your municipality may impose certain restrictions such as limiting the height of a building or prohibiting the use of certain materials.
Are the renovations you are considering allowed? You may need a permit to do them even if your work is not visible from the outside.
To adopt the right reflex: always start by asking your municipality. This way, you can avoid fines or, worse, having to demolish your renovations!
- Is your contractor licensed?
In your efforts to hire the right contractor, it is essential to check if he has a Régie du bâtiment du Québec. This organization ensures that the contractor is qualified to do the work authorized by his license.
In general, the license also guarantees that the entrepreneur has paid security to the Régie or joined a guarantee plan. You could therefore be compensated in the event of a problem. The Régie du bâtiment du Québec website offers a tool to check licenses.
Would you like to retain the services of an electrician or a plumber? These professionals must also have a license from the Corporation of Master Electricians of Quebec or the Corporation of Master Pipe Mechanics of Quebec.
Some contractors are considered itinerant merchants, for example, if they sell, repair or install doors, windows, roofing, thermal insulation, or building exterior coverings. In this case, they must have a permit from the Consumer Protection Office. Special rules protect you when doing business with this type of merchant.
