8 Top Repairs & Contractors

How to hire a contractor or repair service

Repairs and renovations combine large sums, long timelines and work that is hard to judge until it is finished. A clear written agreement is your main protection.

• Licensing and insurance: many trades, such as electrical and plumbing work, need a licence. Check it with the issuing body and ask for proof of insurance.
• Written quote and scope: list materials, brands, finishes, start date and what is excluded.
• Payment schedule: link payments to completed stages rather than paying most of the cost up front.
• Permits: agree who gets any permits needed and who passes inspections.
• Change orders: any change in the work should be priced and agreed in writing before it starts.
• Workmanship guarantee: ask how long the work is guaranteed and how you claim.

Common problems and how to avoid them

Reviews often describe contractors who take a deposit and start late, jobs left half-done, and in-home sales visits that push for same-day signing. Take time to compare quotes, and check whether a cooling-off period applies to contracts signed at home where you live.

Booking platforms and lead services pass your request to local businesses. They can be convenient, but read reviews of the individual tradesperson and check what the platform does if a job goes wrong.

For any contractor listed here, the CandorRated page notes the business that seems to run the website, its domain age and any contact details found. Setting the city filter shows tradespeople who work locally.

Frequently asked questions

How much deposit is normal for a renovation?

It depends on the job and local rules, and some places limit deposits by law. Keep upfront payments modest and tied to materials or milestones.

What if a contractor's work fails after they leave?

Contact them in writing under the guarantee, with photos. If that fails, your local licensing body or consumer agency can advise on next steps.