Good Renovations Aren’t Cheap, and Cheap Renovations Aren’t Good
This is a simple truth in the home renovation industry, and one every Toronto homeowner should understand before signing a contract.
We always encourage our clients to get three quotes before starting any renovation project. If those three quotes come in within $500 to $1,000 of each other, you’re likely comparing legitimate, professional contractors. But if one quote comes in thousands of dollars lower than the others, that’s a red flag. It usually means you’re about to hire someone who cuts corners, doesn’t carry liability insurance, and isn’t a certified or licensed contractor.
The Hidden Cost of Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor
As a licensed and insured renovation contractor serving Toronto and the GTA, we regularly uncover poor-quality work in homes and businesses while quoting new projects. In fact, in roughly 50% of the renovations we quote, we find previous work that was done improperly or does not meet the Ontario Building Code (OBC).
Some homeowners ask us, “Can you just cover it back up?” Unfortunately, we can’t. As licensed contractors, if we knowingly conceal work that violates the OBC, we become liable for it. Protecting our clients — and staying compliant with Ontario’s building regulations — means addressing these issues properly, not hiding them behind new drywall or finishes.
Real Examples of Poor Workmanship We’ve Found on the Job
Below is an example of a so-called “quality contractor” advertising on public property. Beyond the spelling errors in the ad itself, ask yourself: is this really the kind of contractor you want working on your biggest investment — your home?
Here’s another example of substandard carpentry work we discovered on-site. The door installed here isn’t plumb, and the lintel above it was installed incorrectly, compromising both the structural support and the finished appearance of the entryway.
We’ve also come across dangerous electrical work performed by an unlicensed electrician. In this case, a 14/2 wire was extended using wire nuts (Marettes), then buried directly behind the drywall with no junction box. This is a serious fire hazard and a clear violation of Ontario’s electrical safety code.
Why Quality Renovation Work Is Worth the Investment
These are just a few examples of the substandard contracting work our team has uncovered at job sites across Toronto and the GTA. The takeaway is simple: quality craftsmanship costs more upfront, but it protects your home, your family, and your investment for years to come. Cheap renovation work might save you money today, but it often leads to expensive repairs, safety hazards, and code violations down the road.
If you’re planning a renovation, don’t just choose the lowest quote — choose a licensed, insured, and OBC-compliant contractor who stands behind their work.
Ready to start your renovation the right way? Contact Total Reno Design for a free, no-obligation quote from a trusted Toronto renovation contractor with over 25 years of experience.
