The Ultimate Checklist for Hiring a Contractor in BC

DIY vs Pro · 6 min read · 2025-12-10

Hiring the wrong contractor can cost you thousands of dollars and months of frustration. British Columbia has specific requirements and best practices that every homeowner should know before signing a contract.

The Pre-Hire Checklist

1. WorkSafeBC (WCB) Verification

  • Ask for their WCB account number
  • Verify coverage at worksafebc.com
  • Confirm coverage is current and active
  • Understand that if a worker is injured on your property without WCB, YOU may be liable

    • 2. Insurance Verification

  • Request a Certificate of Insurance
  • Confirm minimum $2 million general liability
  • Check that the policy is current
  • Ensure the policy covers the type of work being done

    • 3. BC Licensing

  • For projects over $3,000: Contractor must be licensed through BC Housing
  • Verify license at bchousing.org
  • Check for any complaints or disciplinary actions
  • Confirm the business license is current with the local municipality

    • 4. References and Reviews

  • Check Google Business Profile (look for 50+ reviews)
  • Ask for 3-5 recent references for similar projects
  • Contact references and ask about timeline, communication, and quality
  • Check the Better Business Bureau
  • Search for complaints on social media and review sites

    • 5. Written Contract

    Every project should have a written contract that includes:

  • Detailed scope of work
  • Total cost and payment schedule
  • Start and completion dates
  • Change order process and pricing
  • Warranty terms
  • Cleanup expectations
  • Permit responsibility

    • 6. Payment Terms

  • Never pay more than 10-25% upfront
  • Tie payments to milestones (e.g., after demolition, after rough-in, at completion)
  • Retain 10% holdback until final walkthrough and punch list completion
  • Get receipts for all payments
  • Avoid cash-only demands

    • Red Flags

  • No WCB or insurance
  • Pressures you to start immediately
  • Demands large cash deposit
  • No written contract offered
  • No physical business address
  • Can't provide references
  • Significantly lower bid than competitors (often means cutting corners or adding change orders)
  • Won't pull necessary permits

    • The SturdyBee Difference

    SturdyBee Property Solutions makes this checklist easy:

  • WCB covered — Verifiable WorkSafeBC coverage for all team members
  • Fully insured — Comprehensive general liability coverage
  • Google Guaranteed — Google's own endorsement of our business
  • 4.9 stars on Google with 100+ reviews
  • Transparent pricing — Published packages and written estimates
  • Professional contracts — Clear scope, timeline, and pricing for every project

    • Call (604) 366-4087 or visit https://sturdybeesolutions.com/contact for a free estimate.