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Choose a Contractor

How to hire the right contractor for the job

When it comes to renovation work, spending the time to find a credible contractor will save you time and money down the road. Beyond price and proximity, you’ll want to know that you can trust them with the job. Follow these tips to help you choose the best candidate.

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Finding a contractor
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What to look for in a contract

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Repairing or servicing equipment

Enbridge Gas does not sell or repair furnaces, water heaters, stoves or outdoor appliances. If you require service, you’ll need to find a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) contractor for repairs and maintenance.

Find and verify the certifications of HVAC contractors: Check the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI).

Request references: Requesting references is a helpful way to assess your options in HVAC contractors.

Get a written quote: It’s very important that you get detailed written quotes for your project. Get at least three written estimates, from different contractors, outlining the work to be done and the total price.

Finding a contractor

Number one

Ask for referrals or search directories

Start by asking friends and neighbours for recommendations. You can also find a contractor through contractor associations:

Number two

Conduct interviews

You’ll want to learn more about how the contractor works. Here are some questions to ask:

  • Can you provide the names of three client references?
  • Do you have general liability insurance?
  • Do you hire licensed natural gas technicians?
  • What is your experience working on similar projects?
  • What kind of warranty do you provide and what does it cover?
  • Will you take care of the required work permits?
  • Do you offer services post-installation? (e.g., furnace servicing, etc.)
Number three

Check references

Ask the contractor to provide at least three client references. Here’s what you’ll want to know:

  • Did the project stay within the original budget?
  • Would you use this contractor again?
  • Did the project finish on schedule?
  • Were you satisfied with the quality of work?
Number four

Compare detailed estimates

Be sure to ask for specific requests—anything not listed in this estimate may increase the budget. This contract should include:

  • A description of all work to be completed.
  • Project start date and how long it will take.
  • How much the project will cost.

Protect yourself with a written contract

This document will be helpful to refer to should the project scope change. Make sure the following is included:

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    Detailed list of all work to be completed.

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    Itemized list of all material/equipment to be installed (e.g., quantity, model number and energy rating, if applicable).

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    Proof of warranty – for both the equipment and work performed.

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    Liability insurance information (minimum of $2 million).

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    Proof of license and certification (necessary when installing HVAC equipment).

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    Payment terms and schedule.

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    Start and completion date.

More help for your home

Home Efficiency Rebate Plus

Planning a home renovation? Get up to $10,000 back.

We offer rebates to help offset the cost of insulation, air sealing, furnaces, boilers, water heaters, new windows and doors.

See rebates

Registered Energy Advisors

It’s not us knocking! Protect yourself from scams.

Enbridge Gas does not endorse door-to-door sales. Only authorized delivery agents can deliver our programs and will never show up unannounced.

See Authorized delivery agents