Our Credentials

Renovating your home is often one of the major projects you will undertake in your lifetime. Finding the right contractor can be the difference between a stress-full, over-budget project with trouble  and a smooth, easy going project that stays within budget. Let’s be frank -  finding a good contractor is not easy.

In Ottawa there are almost 1000 contractors who call themselves renovators of which less than 30 are a little more than independent contractors operating out of their garage. Of those 30 who are actual companies, less than half have the full qualifications that you expect in a renovator. Of those 15, maybe 5-10 have the capacity to do the same full range of work as General Contractors such as; full kitchens, bathroom, basements and additions. We have spent years building up our credentials through experience and by partnering up with some of the best organizations in the business.

Here's an interesting article that can help you make an informed decision when selecting a renovation contractor   Home reno black market .....

Being a member of regulatory organizations means that you, our clients, are protected in full. To be part of these organizations we have to provide them copies of liability insurance, WSIB and as part of the RENOMARK ,we have to give a minimum 2 year warranty. (We offer a 5 year standard warranty with all our work)

Here is a list of our credentials and what they mean to you.

	Better business bureau (BBB)- Most homeowners are familiar with the better business bureau. We are good standing members of the better business bureau. We have had not one single complaint with the bbb for any work we have every completed. Considering that all one has to do is pick up the phone and call the BBB to complain having not one single mark on our company goes a long way.
	Renomark – This organization is like the BBB but specifically for renovators.  The real difference is that it is much more difficult to be part of the Renomark program than the BBB. Contractors have to offer 2 year warranties, carry liability insurance as well as WSIB among many other requirements. If nothing else make sure you contractors carries the RENOMARK LOGO!
	GOHBA (Greater Ottawa Home Builders Association) – Being part of GOHBA is a prerequisite to being part of the  RENOMARK. It is also one more agency that has its own specific guidelines to follow. Look for the GOHBA logo whenever hiring any renovation company.
	OGCAO (Ottawa General Contractors Association)- As general contractors we feel that we have to be part of the OGCAO. The OGCAO is mostly for larger general contractors. It allows the general contractors to get together on a regular basis and discuss safety, good practice guidelines and new market conditions. Although not a requirement for residential renovations it has helped us develop comprehensive safety guidelines.
	Ottawa Renovators Council- The Ottawa Renovators Council is a council of renovation companies that gets together once a month to discuss the renovation market including new practices and regulations and any laws that are enacted for the RENOMARK members. All the owners of the professional renovation companies like Oakwood and Ottawa Home Improvements are part of this council. If you are working with a contractor who sits on the renovators council you know you are working with a top notch professional.

As you can see we take renovations seriously. As a client of ours you will be working with some of the best contractors and manager in the industry. We focus not only on quality but VALUE as well ensure every project stays in budget. Make sure it done right the first time. Get a free estimate now------------------------------------------->