Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, a basement suite or a full home renovation, hiring the right contractor can make the difference between a smooth, successful project and a stressful experience. Calgary has no shortage of skilled tradespeople, but hiring the best professional for your home improvement needs takes some careful research and planning. Here are practical steps to help.

Start with recommendations and research

Word of mouth is still one of the most reliable ways to find a trustworthy contractor. Ask friends, family, coworkers or neighbours if they’ve had good experiences with local contractors. Personal referrals often come with honest feedback about the contractor’s workmanship, communication and pricing.

In addition, do some online research. Websites and reviews can give you a sense of which contractors have consistently positive feedback. Look for contractors who have detailed profiles, photos of completed projects and plenty of recent reviews.

Verify credentials and experience

In Alberta, contractors are required to have a valid business license. You can check a contractor’s status through the City of Calgary’s business license database. It’s also important to confirm that they carry general liability insurance and have WCB (Workers’ Compensation Board) coverage.

Experience matters, especially for complex renovations. Ask the contractor how long they’ve been in business and whether they specialize in the type of work you need − for example, kitchen renovations, bathroom remodels or basement developments. A contractor with a proven track record in your specific type of project is more likely to deliver quality results.

Ask for references and portfolios

A reputable contractor should be willing to provide references from past clients. Take the time to call these references and ask about their overall satisfaction, whether the project stayed on budget and schedule and how the contractor handled any unexpected issues.

Reviewing a portfolio of completed work is also essential. Many contractors showcase before-and-after photos on their websites or social media accounts. This can give you an idea of their style, craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Get multiple quotes – but don’t just choose the cheapest

It’s wise to get at least three detailed quotes for your project. A good estimate should break down costs for labour, materials, permits and timelines. Be cautious of unusually low quotes, as they could indicate corner-cutting or a misunderstanding of the project scope.

The best contractor isn’t always the cheapest − it’s the one who offers a fair price, communicates clearly and demonstrates professionalism.

Review contracts carefully

Once you’ve chosen a contractor, insist on a written contract. It should outline the scope of work, payment schedule, timelines, materials to be used and how changes will be handled. This document protects both you and the contractor and helps avoid misunderstandings later.

Prioritize communication and compatibility

Renovations can take weeks or even months, so select someone you feel comfortable communicating with. Pay attention to how quickly they respond to emails or phone calls and whether they answer your questions clearly. A contractor who listens to your concerns and explains their process will make the renovation experience far less stressful.

Quick checklist: questions to ask before hiring a contractor

Here’s a list of questions for your reference:

• Are you licensed to work in Calgary and covered by WCB insurance?
• Can you provide proof of liability insurance?
• How many years have you been in business and do you specialize in my type of project?
• Can you share recent references and a portfolio of similar work?
• Will you handle permits and inspections, or do I need to arrange those?
• Can you provide a detailed written quote and timeline?
• What is your payment schedule and how do you handle cost overruns or changes?
• Who will be on-site daily − you or subcontractors?

In closing

Finding the best contractor takes time, but the effort pays off with a smoother project and better results. By doing your research, verifying credentials and using a checklist of key questions, you’ll set yourself up for a successful renovation and enjoy your improved space for years to come.