How to Hire a Trade Without Getting Scammed

The Wild West of Home Improvement

Hiring a contractor shouldn't feel like a gamble. Yet, every year, thousands of homeowners in British Columbia fall victim to scams, poor workmanship, or uninsured contractors. This guide will give you the tools to spot red flags and hire with total confidence.

1. The Insurance Red Flag

Never hire a contractor who cannot provide a current Certificate of Insurance (COI). A "we're insured" isn't enough. You need to see:

• Commercial General Liability (Minimum $2M)
• WorkSafeBC Coverage (for their employees)

If they don't have this, you are liable for any injuries or damage that occur on your property.

2. The "Cash Discount" Trap

A contractor offering a significant discount for cash-only payments is often avoiding taxes or operating without a license. This also means you have no paper trail if something goes wrong. Always insist on a written contract and formal invoices.

3. Questions to Ask Before Hiring

1. "Will you be the one performing the work, or do you use subcontractors?"
2. "How many projects like this have you completed in the BC Interior?"
3. "Can you provide three local references from the last 6 months?"
4. "What is your process for handling unexpected changes in the project scope?"