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Trusted Tips & Resources

Congratulation to Al Schick Construction on Celebrating Their 20th Anniversary


CONGRATULATIONS, AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION - CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF TRUSTWORTHY BUSINESS PRACTICES IN REGINA 

This latest article celebrates and recognizes Al Schick Construction, Trusted Regina Contractor, and Regina residential renovation pros. as they celebrate 20 years in business! 

'A Regina General Contractor You Can Trust

AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION CELEBRATES 20 YEARS!  


Congratulations to Al Schick Construction on celebrating 20 years!  The business has been operating since 2003, and he runs a well-established local family-owned and operated Trusted Regina renovation company. Led by Al Schick, who has extensive experience in renovations and project management, the company has built a stellar reputation in Regina.




A HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE AS STANDARD


Al Schick's expertise in construction has been passed down to his son, Les Schick, who has been involved in the business since his teenage years. This family connection ensures a strong commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.


One of the distinguishing features of Al & Les Schick is their personalized approach to each client. Unlike larger companies, they take the time to get to know their customers personally and prioritize their wants and needs. They aim to bring their client’s visions to life and provide personable, friendly, trustworthy, and professional service.


I would like to thank all of my current and past customers for their business and support, which enabled us to remain in business for 20 years and counting. I would also like to thank my team of past and current employees, including my son Les, for their hard work and attention to detail, because without good people, you can’t do good work. “ Al Schick

The company specializes in various residential and commercial projects in Regina, including interior and exterior renovations. They handle everything from office renovations to large full-scale renos and additions. Whether planning a project for your home or business, requiring insurance work, or needing professional project management services, Al Schick Construction is dedicated to delivering top-notch results.


Their clients say it best!

 “Al is first class all the way! We had a basement renovation completed by Al and an extremely complicated garage added to our home. I would give a 10 out of 10 rating on every aspect of his integrity and workmanship. I have sent many friends to Al and will continue to do so. If I ever need work done in the future, I will pick up the phone, call Al and never even question his bill. I truly do Trust him to do a great job” -Bob R.


A word from Trusted Sara about her personal experience with Al Schick Construction.


" I was told about Al Schick within weeks of arriving in Regina and looking for good, trustworthy contractors. He was quite hard to track down initially,  as he had no website or social media, I eventually got his card from another client in the home building industry and gave him a call. He was friendly on the phone and seemed intrigued about the concept. He agreed to meet me for coffee to learn more but did warn me that he doesn't advertise. Our meeting went really well, he struck me as a warm, humble and friendly man who clearly cares about his customers. He talked about how important it was to him that his customers were happy with the work that was done, and how he was lucky to be doing what he loved for a living. To this day I am grateful that the only place he ever advertised is Trusted Regina, and that he extended his trust to me, he is a perfect example of the kind of businesses I love working with and promoting. In 2022 I met Les Schick for the first time. We met lots and worked together on website content, so I got to know him well which has been great. Les is a chip off the old block and it is great to see a long-term succession plan in place. Regina is lucky to have such a wonderful family construction business as an option, and I can't recommend Al Schick Construction highly enough.    - Sara Wheelwright, Trusted Regina founder.  

With their years of experience, dedication to quality, and trusted reputation, Al Schick Construction is a Regina general contractor you can trust. Congratulations, Al & Les, once again, on reaching this significant milestone!



Thank you for TRUSTING us, Al and Les. You have provided ten years of AMAZING service to the people of Regina & area as a Trusted Regina Partner in Regina Contractors and Regina Renovations categories. We are proud to support Al Schick Construction, and we are thrilled to share that they have diligently upheld the 5 TRUSTED GUARANTEES of service and NEVER had a complaint. 




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.


 

Al Schick Construction your Trusted Regina Contractor and Renovation Expert shares a tip on the difference between a General Contractor vs Builder

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 the difference between a General Contractor vs Builder:

Is there a difference?

General Contractor

A general contractor or “contractor” is a person or company that organizes and oversees a construction project from start to finish. They complete the job by hiring different subtrades to perform each step of the project. For example: They would hire excavators to prepare the site, a concrete company to form and poor the foundation, framers to put up the shell and so on. They make their money by charging a percentage on top of all the subtrades’ bills. This is a common way for individuals who do not have hands on knowledge of the building process, or no longer want to work in a hands on way, to run a successful construction company. 

Builder

A builder is a person or company that brings in a crew that works from start to finish on your project. The crew is generally trained to do every aspect of the construction process, from concrete to roofing to painting, keeping the use of subtrades to a minimum. (Because of the complexity of the work and the additional licenses required, mechanical, electrical and plumbing work is always contracted out to professionals.) A builder gets paid one of two ways. One is called “contract” and other is “time and material”. It is up to you to decide what works best for your project.

Some builders focus strictly on the carpentry end of the project while outsourcing the rest to subtrades. Also a very common relationship known as a Builder/ Contractor.

 

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 Renovation Expert tip on Hiring a Professional 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

Here Al Tip on Hiring a Professional Contractor In Regina 

Before you consider hiring a contractor to complete repairs, regular maintenance or home renovations, make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish. Depending on the type of work want to be done, you may need to contact a contractor with specialized expertise. Ask lots of questions, research your options, and make sure all contractual obligations and payment terms are included in a signed contract. The following tips can help you when looking to hire a reputable professional. 

Research your options and consider contacting your local renovation and/or home builder associations for a list of professional service providers.

Get quotes from more than one renovator or service provider. This will help you compare prices and levels of customer service; be sure to discuss your project expectations, timelines, costs and possible interruption factors.

Ask questions about the company and the work to be completed, including:

  • How long have you been in business?
  • What is your area of expertise?
  • Will you use your own staff for subcontractors to complete the work?
  • What permits are required for the project?
  • How much time will you spend supervising the site?
  • How do you manage health and safety concerns on the site?
  • What level of insurance coverage do you have?
  • Do a background check and consider contacting the following agencies before selecting a service provider:

Information Services Corporation Branch (306-787-2962) to make sure the business is registered as a legal entity in Sk.

Workersʼ Compensation Board (306-787-4370) to make sure the company carries workersʼ compensation coverage. Without coverage, you may be liable for injuries that occur while staff are completing work in your home;

Better Business Bureau (306-352-7601) to see if any complaints have been registered against the company; 

Consumer Protection Branch (1-877-889-5550) to confirm your contractorʼs direct seller's license, if applicable. Licensed contractors are required to be bonded, which will provide you with some financial compensation in the event that problems arise during construction.

  • Ask about warrant options– warranty coverage differs from company to company, make sure you understand what type or warranty is included and what it covers.
  • Discuss payment options and get a cost break down of what is included in your estimate. Depending on whether your contractor offers a “fixed-price” or a “cost-plus” quote, different materials, labour and overhead will be included in the quoted price or charged in addition to the quoted price. Typical payment plans can require a 10 percent down payment and the rest in installments.
  • Get a contract – a detailed written contract between you and the service provider is essential to any renovation or home repair project. All details should be included in writing, including start/finish dates, warranties on work and/or materials and the total project costs and payment plans. Never hire a renovator or service provider that refuses to provide a written contract.

Ask for and check references of past customers that had similar projects done with the contractor over the last two years. When checking references, you may wish to ask for the following information:

  • If the project was completed on time;
  • If they were happy with the results;
  • If they were satisfied with the level of communication and customer service during and after the project was completed;
  • If there were any cost over-runs;
  • If employees left the site satisfactorily cleaned up after the home improvement project was finished.

Never hire a contractor that only accepts cash, offers unreasonable or extremely low prices compared to others, does not offer a written contract, and does not have an official address. These are warning signs of unethical business practices and can be an indication of future problems. Do not feel pressured to sign into a quick agreement – before making a decision, seek written quotes from at least two other contractors or service providers.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) have a simple checklist of steps that can help you choose the right contractor for any home remodelling project. You can view the checklist online by visiting www.cmhc.ca and searching “Renovation Checklist.” If your project is very large and involves thousands of dollars it may be wise to obtain a lawyer to help you with the contract.

 






 AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION a TRUSTED REGINA CONTRACTOR and Renovation Expert



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