Trusted Tips and Resources

Trusted Tips & Resources

Active Electric Trusted Regina Electrician share 10 Questions to Ask an Electrician Before Hiring

Active Electric are Trusted Regina Electricians and they get it right the first time, delivering all electrical services including installation, upgrade, and repair solutions.

Whether it's hanging a ceiling fan, installing a custom-designed landscape lighting system, installing a state of the art home theatre system or rewiring a commercial structure, or other electrical services, you can call Active they are here eager to help and no job is too small! Customer service is always their top priority and they should be your first call for a Regina Electrician! 

Active Electric are your TRUSTED REGINA ELECTRICAL EXPERTS

 

10 Questions to Ask an Electrician Before Hiring:

Asking these 10 electrician questions will help you find a qualified pro with the right experience and business practices for your needs.

Finding the right electrician can be as much a matter of safety as getting your money's worth, since electrical problems are among the leading causes of house fires. Electrical work must be done by the book-specifically, the National Electrical Code book-and follow all code requirements of your city's building department. Asking these 10 electrician questions will help you find a qualified pro with the right experience and business practices for your needs.

1. Are you licensed?

Electricians are required to be licensed in most states and municipalities, so don't consider one who isn't properly licensed. There are two basic levels of licensure: A master electrician has at least two years of professional experience and is licensed for both design and installation of electrical systems. A journeyman is licensed for installation only. In some areas, journeymen must work alongside masters.

2. Are you insured?

Certainly one of the deal-breaker electrician questions, given the potentially high liability for this work. Electrical contractors should carry at least $500,000 in liability and workers' compensation insurance.

3. Who will perform the work?

Don't assume the person you talk to will be the one doing all the work. Ask about the hourly rates for different qualifications (master electrician vs. journeyman/apprentice, or any combination of workers). If you feel your job requires a master's expertise, discuss this up front.

4. What special training/experience do you have for this kind of work?

This should be one of your electrician questions if your project calls for specific expertise, such as installing voice/data cabling, home automation systems or solar equipment. Even if another contractor handles the specialty stuff, it's helpful if your electrician has experience working with those systems and protocols.

5. Will you provide references (for past jobs similar to mine)?

References are particularly important for hiring electricians; it's hard to judge the quality of their work when you can't see most of it and don't really know what to look for (see item 10 for tips).

6. What does your estimate include?

In addition to pricing structure, be sure to discuss incidentals, like repairing drywall and other things affected by the electrical work. Chances are, you'll be responsible for them.

7. Do I need a permit? Who will obtain it?

A permit ensures electrical work will be checked by a city inspector-an important safeguard for homeowners. It's standard for electricians (not homeowners) to pull permits.

8. What kind of work do you do most?

Like many contractors, electricians often specialize in one area or another. As an example, if your project involves finished spaces, look for someone who specializes in remodels as opposed to new construction.

 

9. What will you guarantee/warranty?

Learn how well a pro stands behind his work. Also be aware that electricians typically assume responsibility for fixtures, devices and other equipment they buy for you through their professional accounts.

10. May I see a work in progress?

Depending on the nature of your project, it might be helpful to visit an electrician's current job, for a behind-the-scenes look at his work. In general, you're looking for evidence of orderly, methodical installation: neat cable runs near the service panel (breaker box), clear labeling of circuit breakers, regular anchoring of cables, switch boxes that sit squarely and finish flush to the drywall surface, etc.

Like a plumber, doctor and auto mechanic, a trusted electrician is a valuable member of a household maintenance team. As you cover your list of electrician questions, listen for a panel-side manner; you want someone who explains what he's doing and why, and who will help you understand the essentials of your system (or as much as you care to know). Ideally, the electrician you hire now will be a good source to call for emergencies and other projects down the road.  

 

 

Check out his listing here in REGINA ELECTRICIANS on the Regina Directory of excellence!

Robert MacKay Trusted Regina Real Estate Lawyer expert tip on GST & Acreages

It’s an exciting time – the old house is sold, the new one is ready, and all that’s left is the move…..oh wait – not quite yet! There’s all that legal “stuff” to deal with now….signatures….titles to be given…and pages and pages of documents that need to be signed before the key is in your hand!!! And to top it all off – who really knows a good real estate lawyer?

MacKay & McLean provides the professional services of a large Regina law firm, with the intimate attention of a small firm. The legal process can be daunting and overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. MacKay & McLean is with you every step of the way.

MacKay &  McLean are TRUSTED REGINA LAWYERS


Here Robert shares a tip on GST & Acreages:

When buying an acreage Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has an administrative presumption that the land in excess of 1/2 a hectare (1.235 acres) is not reasonably necessary for the use and enjoyment of the building as a place of residence. In otherwords, CRA presumes that the excess land does not form part of the residential complex.

However, a taxpayer may be able to establish that the excess land is reasonably necessary for the residential building to properly fulfill its function as a residence. This requires that the excess land be more than simply desirable.

The prior use of the land is also critical in determining whether G.S.T. will be payable. Where the prior use was residential or maybe used as a hobby farm, then it appears that G.S.T. is not payable. If the prior use of the land was commercial, e.g. farming, then it appears that G.S.T. is payable by the Buyer.

For more information see:

 

Depending on the situation, Buyers and Sellers may want to agree in advance on the value of the land in excess of the 1/2 hectare or otherwise how they wish to apportion the G.S.T. Careful consultation should be had between the realtors and/or lawyers involved in the transaction.


For advice, Robert MacKay's team provides professional, personalized service and with their assistance, you can rest assured that your real estate transactions will be handled with the utmost consideration and care.

They  provide a full range of legal services including:

  • Real Estate & Mortgages
  • Wills & Estates
  • Family Law & Divorce
  • Commercial & Corporate Law
  • Litigation & Personal Injury

ROBERT Mackay is your TRUSTED REGINA LAWYERS!

 

Al Schick Construction your Trusted Regina Contractor and Renovation expert shares a tip on hiring a Contractor - PART 2

If its time to finally finish that basement or the year you refresh that tired old bathroom, maybe your office could use a redesign and some upgrades.... Whether you are planning a renovation to your home or office space, AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION can help!

They specialize in residential and commercial projects including interior and exterior renovations....from offices to old character and newly built homes. If you are planning a project or a renovation on a specific area of your home or business, look to the experts at AL SCHICK Construction to get the job done right!

AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION are a TRUSTED REGINA CONTRACTOR and Renovation Experts

Here Al shares a tip on hiring a Contractor:

PART 2 

After You Hire a Contractor

Keep Records

 

Keep all paperwork related to your project in one place. This includes:

  • copies of the contract
  • change orders
  • any correspondence with your home improvement professionals
  • a record of all payments. You may need receipts for tax purposes.

Keep a log or journal of all phone calls, conversations, and activities. You also might want to take photographs as the job progresses. These records are especially important if you have problems with your project — during or after construction.

Pay Wisely

 

 

Don’t make the final payment or sign an affidavit of final release until you’re satisfied

Besides being satisfied with the work, you also need to know that subcontractors and suppliers have been paid. Laws in your state might allow them to file a mechanic’s lien against your home to satisfy their unpaid bills, forcing you to sell your home to pay them. Protect yourself by asking the contractor, and every subcontractor and supplier, for a lien release or lien waiver.

Know the limit for the final bill

Some state or local laws limit the amount by which the final bill can exceed the estimate, unless you have approved the increase.

Know when you can withhold payment

If you have a problem with merchandise or services charged to a credit card, and you’ve made a good faith effort to work out the problem with the seller, you have the right to contact your credit card company and withhold payment from the card issuer for the merchandise or services. You can withhold payment up to the amount of credit outstanding for the purchase, plus any finance or related charges.

Use a Sign-Off Checklist

 

 

 

Before you sign off and make the final payment, check that:

  • all work meets the standards spelled out in the contract
  • you have written warranties for materials and workmanship
  • you have proof that all subcontractors and suppliers have been paid
  • the job site has been cleaned up and cleared of excess materials, tools, and equipment
  • you have inspected and approved the completed work

Signs of a Home Improvement Scam

 

How can you tell if a contractor might not be reputable? You may not want to do business with someone who:

  • knocks on your door for business or offers you discounts for finding other customers
  • just happens to have materials left over from a previous job
  • pressures you for an immediate decision
  • only accepts cash, asks you to pay everything up-front, or suggests you borrow money from a lender the contractor knows
  • asks you to get the required building permits
  • tells you your job will be a "demonstration” or offers a lifetime warranty or long-term guarantee
  • doesn’t list a business number in the local telephone directory

 

The Home Improvement Loan Scam

 

 

Here’s how it works: a contractor calls or comes to your door and offers a deal to install a new roof or remodel your kitchen. He says he can arrange financing through a lender he knows. After he starts, he asks you to sign papers; they may be blank — or he might hustle you along and not give you time to read through them. Later you find out you’ve agreed to a home equity loan with a high interest rate, points, and fees. What’s worse, the work on your home isn’t done right or isn’t completed, and the contractor — who may already have been paid by the lender — has lost interest.

To avoid a loan scam, don’t:

  • agree to a home equity loan if you don’t have the money to make the payments
  • sign a document you haven’t read or that has blank spaces to be filled in after you sign
  • let anyone pressure you into signing any document
  • deed your property to anyone. Consult an attorney, a knowledgeable family member, or someone else you trust if you’re asked to.
  • agree to financing through your contractor without shopping around and comparing loan terms

Report a Problem

If you have a problem with a home improvement project, first try to resolve it with the contractor. Many disputes can be resolved at this level. Follow any phone conversations with a letter you send by certified mail. Request a return receipt. That’s your proof that the company received your letter. Keep a copy for your files.

If that fails, consider getting outside help like:

For More Information

National Association of Home Builders

National Association of the Remodeling Industry

The American Institute of Architects

ENERGY STAR

 

 

Check out his listing to read the great things his clients has to say about Al Schick Construction in the Regina Contrators category on the Regina Directory 

 

 

Al Schick Construction Trusted Regina Contractor and Renovators tip on hiring a Contractor

If it's time to finally finish that basement or the year you refresh that tired old bathroom, maybe your office could use a redesign and some upgrades. Whether you are planning a renovation to your home or office space, AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION can help!  They specialize in residential and commercial projects including interior and exterior renovations....from offices to old character and newly built homes. If you are planning a project or a renovation on a specific area of your home or business, look to the experts at AL SCHICK Construction to get the job done right! AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION a TRUSTED REGINA CONTRACTOR and Renovation Expert

Al's tip on hiring a Contractor


Adding a room, renovating a basement, or doing some much-needed repairs? Finding a good contractor is important — a home improvement project gone wrong can cost you. A good ad isn’t proof a contractor does quality work. Find out for yourself. Check with friends, neighbours, or co-workers who’ve had improvement work done, and check out a contractor’s reputation on online review sites you trust( Like Trusted Regina ). Get written estimates from several firms, keeping in mind the lowest bidder may not be the best choice. Also important: know the signs of a scam.

Finding a Contractor

Depending on how big or complex a project is, you might hire a:

  • general contractor, who manages all aspects of a project, including hiring and supervising subcontractors, getting building permits, and scheduling inspections
  • specialty contractor, who installs particular products like cabinets and bathroom fixtures
  • architect, who designs homes, additions, and major renovations — especially ones involving structural changes
  • designer or design/build contractor, who provides both services

 

Do Your Research

Check with friends, neighbours, or co-workers who’ve used a contractor

If you can, take a look at the work done and ask about their experience.

Look at sites you trust that post ratings and reviews

Do people seem to have similar experiences, good or bad? You also can check out a contractor’s online reputation by searching for the company’s name with words like “scam,” “rip-off,” or “complaint.”


Find out how long they’ve been in business

Look for an established company whose record and reputation you can check out.

Check for qualifications, like licensing

Many states, but not all, require contractors to be licensed and/or bonded. Check with your local building department or consumer protection agency to find out about licensing requirements in your area. Licensing can range from simple registration to a detailed qualification process. If your state or locality has licensing laws, make sure the contractor’s license is current.

Before You Hire a Contractor

Get Estimates

Once you’ve narrowed your options, get written estimates from several firms. Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder. Ask for an explanation to see if there’s a reason for the difference in price.

Ask Questions

How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year?

Ask for a list so you can see how familiar the contractor is with your type of project.

Will my project require a permit?

Most states and localities require permits for building projects, even for simple jobs like decks. A competent contractor will get all the necessary permits before starting work on your project. You may want to choose a contractor familiar with the permitting process in your county, city, or town.

May I have a list of references?

A contractor should be able to give you the names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients with projects like yours. Ask each client how long ago the project was and whether it was completed on time. Was the client satisfied? Were there any unexpected costs? Did workers show up on time and clean up after finishing the job? You also could tell the contractor that you’d like to visit jobs in progress.

What types of insurance do you carry?

Contractors should have:

  • personal liability
  • worker’s compensation
  • property damage coverage

Ask for copies of insurance certificates, and make sure they’re current, or you could be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.

Will you be using subcontractors on this project?

If so, make sure the subcontractors have current insurance coverage and licenses, too, if required.

To find builders, remodelers, and related providers in your area that are members of the National Association of Home Builders, visit nahb.org. To find detailed information about a builder, service provider, or remodeler in your area, contact your local home builders association.

Understand Your Payment Options

Don’t pay cash

For smaller projects, you can pay by check or credit card. Many people finance larger projects.

Try to limit your down payment

Some state laws limit the amount of money a contractor can request as a down payment. 

Try to make payments during the project contingent upon completion of defined amounts of work

This way, if the work isn’t going according to schedule, the payments to your contractor also are delayed.

Get a Written Contract

Contract requirements vary by state. Even if your state doesn’t require a written agreement, ask for one. It should be clear and concise and include the who, what, where, when, and cost of your project. Before you sign a contract, make sure it includes:

  • the contractor’s name, address, phone, and license number (if required)
  • an estimated start and completion date
  • the payment schedule for the contractor, subcontractors, and suppliers
  • the contractor’s obligation to get all necessary permits
  • how change orders are handled. A change order is a written authorization to the contractor to make a change or addition to the work described in the original contract and could affect the project’s cost and schedule.
  • a detailed list of all materials including each product’s colour, model, size, and brand. If some materials will be chosen later, the contract should say who’s responsible for choosing each item and how much money is budgeted for it (this is also known as the “allowance”).
  • information about warranties covering materials and workmanship, with names and addresses of who is honouring them — the contractor, distributor, or manufacturer. The length of the warranty period and any limitations also should be spelled out.
  • what the contractor will and won’t do. For example, is site clean-up and trash hauling included in the price? Ask for a "broom clause" that makes the contractor responsible for all clean-up work, including spills and stains.
  • any promises made during conversations or calls. If they don’t remember, you may be out of luck — or charged extra.
  • a written statement of your right to cancel the contract within three business days if you signed it in your home or at a location other than the seller’s permanent place of business.


 

Trusted Regina COMMERCIAL Real Estate tip- Part 3

 How to Purchase Commercial Real Estate: PART 3

Purchasing Commercial Real Estate: Identify the Right Property

There are a number of factors to consider when looking for suitable commercial real estate to purchase. The old adage "location, location, location" is true for commercial properties just as much as it is for residential. But there are other issues at play, as well. Here are some things to consider:

Location:
This is still the No. 1 issue. You want to be close to your customers, your workers, and your vendors or suppliers. "You want to be convenient to customers to the extent that you have a business where the customer comes to you," Martin says. "But depending on the type of business, access to rail and highway and shipping lanes may be important, too."

 

Physical condition: After identifying the general location, consider how the property was used, the wear-and-tear, whether there are any environmental issues or potential liability issues, such as asbestos or lead paint.

Allowable uses: If your business is an accounting firm, you likely need commercial office space. If you are a manufacturer, you need an industrial space. Either way, you need to make sure the zoning allows you to do what you need to do on the property.

Limitations on exterior or interior: Whether due to zoning laws or building codes or covenants, there may be limits to changes or alterations you can make to the property. A good example is a building that is in an historic area and subject to restrictions on changes that can be made to the façade.

Adequacy of access and parking
: You need to make sure your customers can park and take into consideration whether access is compliant with laws such as the Americans With Disabilities Act.

Opportunity for expansion or leasing: Entrepreneurs often have a rosy outlook about growth and so the potential to expand is a consideration as is the flipside – if you don't grow as much as planned, can you lease out extra space?

 

Part 4 coming soon!! 

 

Previous Posts

ADDRESS

S & E Trusted Online Directories Inc
TrustedRegina.com
310 Wall St #209
Saskatoon, SK   S7K 1N7
Ph: 306.244.4150

GET THE APP

App Store Google Play
Follow us on Facebook Instagram Linked In Twitter YouTube RSS Feed
Abex
Abex
Stevies
Sabex
NEYA
Website hosting by Insight Hosting