If you are considering working with Maynard Construction, insist on a very detailed contract before work begins. In the contract, include at least the following: 1. Detailed breakdown of quoted work, separating labour from materials and from sub-contractor fees. Include a line declaring that it is a "quote" and not an "estimate" even if the word "quote" appears on the first page. 2. A process for a contemplated change notice for work that goes over budget. Be sure that you will be invoiced for the quote you approve unless there is a signed change notice. 3. A detailed breakdown of the scope of work. If a handrail needs to come down and then get reinstalled, make sure that you've included the reinstall in the scope of work. If you are having a range hood installed and it requires a vent, be sure to include installation of the vent along with installation of the range hood. 4. A schedule for completion and penalties for going grossly over schedule. This way your "three week reno" might be completed in less than 119 days. 5. Penalties for failing to complete the work. Ensure that your scope of work article won't allow the job to be declared complete when you have bare electrical wires poking out of your walls and an open permit on your home. read more