Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about home renovations in Toronto and the GTA
General Questions
How long have you been in business?
We have been serving the Greater Toronto Area for over 15 years, completing more than 500 successful renovation projects. Our team brings decades of combined experience in residential construction and design.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we are fully licensed by the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and carry comprehensive liability insurance. All our tradespeople are certified and insured. We can provide copies of our licenses and insurance certificates upon request.
What areas do you service?
We serve the entire Greater Toronto Area including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Oakville, Burlington, Ajax, Pickering, Whitby, Oshawa, and surrounding communities. Contact us to confirm service in your specific area.
Do you provide free estimates?
Yes, we provide complimentary consultations and detailed estimates for all renovation projects. Our initial consultation includes a site visit, project assessment, and comprehensive quote with no obligation.
Pricing & Payment
How much does a kitchen renovation cost?
Kitchen renovations in Toronto typically range from $25,000 to $100,000+. Basic updates start around $25,000, mid-range renovations $40,000-70,000, and high-end luxury kitchens can exceed $100,000. The final cost depends on size, materials, appliances, and complexity.
What payment schedule do you offer?
We typically work with a progress payment schedule: 10% deposit to secure your project start date, 30% after demolition and rough-in work, 30% after installation of major components, and final 30% upon completion and client satisfaction. This structure protects both parties.
Do you offer financing options?
While we don't directly offer financing, we work with several trusted financial partners who can provide renovation loans with competitive rates. We can also help you explore home equity lines of credit and other financing options during your consultation.
Are there hidden costs I should know about?
No, we believe in complete transparency. Our detailed quotes include all anticipated costs. We only discuss additional charges if unexpected issues arise (like hidden structural problems) or if you request changes to the scope of work. All changes require written approval.
Renovation Process
How long does a typical renovation take?
Timeline varies by project: Bathroom renovations 3-6 weeks, kitchen renovations 6-10 weeks, basement finishing 8-12 weeks, full home renovations 12-20 weeks, and home additions 12-16 weeks. We provide detailed timelines during the planning phase.
Do I need to move out during renovation?
For single-room renovations, most clients stay in their homes. We take measures to minimize disruption and contain dust. For full-home renovations or major additions, temporary relocation may be more comfortable. We discuss this during planning and can recommend temporary housing if needed.
How do you protect my home during construction?
We use dust barriers, floor protection, and daily cleanup procedures. Work areas are sealed off from living spaces, and we conduct thorough cleaning at the end of each day. Our team respects your property and maintains a clean, safe work environment.
Can I make changes during the project?
Yes, we understand that ideas evolve. Changes can be accommodated, but timing matters. Early changes are easier to implement. We document all modifications in a change order that outlines cost and timeline adjustments before proceeding.
Permits & Regulations
Do I need permits for my renovation?
Most major renovations require permits. This includes structural changes, plumbing and electrical work, basement finishing, and additions. We handle all permit applications and ensure compliance with Ontario Building Code and municipal bylaws.
How long does permit approval take?
Permit timelines vary by municipality: Toronto typically 2-4 weeks, Mississauga 3-6 weeks, Brampton 4-8 weeks. We start the permit process early and keep you informed of progress. Some projects can begin with preliminary permits while awaiting full approval.
What about condo board approvals?
Condo renovations require board approval in addition to city permits. We're experienced with condo requirements and can prepare all necessary documentation. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks and may include restrictions on work hours and noise.
Warranty & Aftercare
What warranty do you provide?
We provide a comprehensive 2-year workmanship warranty on all our renovations. Additionally, we pass through manufacturer warranties on materials and appliances (typically 1-10 years). All warranty terms are clearly outlined in your contract.
What happens if issues arise after completion?
We stand behind our work. If any issues arise within the warranty period, contact us immediately and we'll address them promptly. We also conduct a 30-day follow-up visit to ensure everything is functioning perfectly and make any necessary adjustments.
Do you provide maintenance services?
Yes, we offer ongoing maintenance services for our clients. This includes annual inspections, caulking replacement, grout maintenance, and other preventative care. We also provide detailed care instructions for all installed materials and systems.
Service Areas
Do you charge extra for travel outside Toronto?
We include standard travel costs within our core service area (Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan). For locations beyond 50km from Toronto, there may be a modest travel surcharge. We're transparent about any additional costs during quoting.
Are you familiar with local building requirements?
Absolutely. We have extensive experience with municipal requirements across the GTA. Each municipality has unique bylaws and inspection processes, and we navigate these requirements daily. We maintain relationships with building officials across all our service areas.
Can you work with heritage properties?
Yes, we have experience with designated heritage properties in Toronto and other GTA municipalities. We understand the special requirements and approval processes for heritage renovations, including working with heritage conservation districts and preserving historical elements.
Still Have Questions?
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