Where can I find a contractor that is right for the job, and what should I know before hiring them?
When hiring a contractor, it’s important that you are choosing them for the quality of their work and for their training and credentials rather than solely on price. There are a variety of consequences to hiring someone that is going to do a poor job installing your equipment. We recommend calling around to different installers in your area to ensure that they can meet your time frame, the scope of the project, and are well qualified for the job.
Before you hire a contractor, clearly establish the scale of the project and a clear budget to work within. Write a complete description of the work you want done on your home. By doing so you will understand the scope of your project and you can find a contractor that will be the most suitable for the job. This detailed description should be given to potential contractors when you ask for a bid or proposal for your project.
Go through a proper screening process before hiring a contractor:
- Find potential contractors based on recommendations from family, friends and neighbours, or by thoroughly researching contractor websites.
- Interview potential contractors. See the FAQ, “What questions should I ask a contractor during the interview process?“
- Look for their certifications and credentials (business license, trade membership, records in the Better Business Bureau, technical qualifications, etc.).
- Obtain written bids or proposals from at least three of your top contractors. See the FAQ, “How do I ensure that I am getting a fair price for my requested services from a contractor?“
- Follow-up with their references to speak with homeowners who have previously worked with a particular contractor.
- Get it In Writing! – Canadian Home Builders’ Association’s guide on hiring and working with a contractor.
FortisBC also has some helpful tips on hiring a contractor.
Find a Contractor*
Use the following directories to help you find a contractor for your project. We recommend calling multiple contractors to ensure that they can meet your time frame, the scope of the project, and are well qualified for the job.
Many people have success finding contractors based on recommendations from family, friends and neighbours, or by searching the directories below.
- Better Business Bureau – find contractors in your area
- Technical Safety BC – find licensed residential, commercial and industrial contractors in BC
- FortisBC Trade Ally Network – find a natural gas contractor
- Fortis BC Electrical Contractor Program – find an electrical contractor in the FortisBC Electric Territory
For tips on hiring a contractor, visit the Canadian Home Builders’ Association.
For tips on hiring a gas contractor, visit FortisBC.
Find a Builder/Renovator*
- Canadian Home Builders’ Association – new home builders and renovators, land developers, trade contractors across Canada
- Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association – home building professionals including builders, renovators, products and professional services in the Great Vancouver area
- Victoria Residential Builders Association – builders, renovators, designers, trades and suppliers in the Victoria area
If you are looking for an Energy Advisor, visit the Program-Qualified Energy Advisor list.
*Disclaimer: The directories and resources listed on this page are for informational purposes only. CleanBC Better Homes and its partners do not endorse or guarantee contractors or their services. It is your responsibility to interview and select a contractor that meets your needs.
Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Check out our glossary.