The Trust Problem in Home Renovations: Protecting Yourself as a Homeowner

The Crux

‍

Let's face it: the home improvement industry in Canada has some serious trust issues. We recently decided to conduct a nationwide survey to gain a bit more insight into the problems, and the results were eye-opening to say the least. Nearly 70% of homeowners reported hitting at least one major issue during their renovation projects. We're talking extreme and frustrating delays, costs that suddenly spiral and balloon out of control, and workmanship that makes you wonder if the “contractor” had ever even picked up a tool screwdriver before.

But here's the real kicker: 8.87% of projects ended with the contractor running off with the deposit. Up until this survey, we were under the impression that that sat somewhere between 6 and 7%. As you know, we’re passionate about transforming this industry, its stats like these that light our fire and push us to continue making a platform designed with the Canadian homeowner in mind. We know that you pour your hard-earned money into your home, so it's crucial that you can trust the people you’re hiring to do the work.

‍

Breaking Down the Trust Problem

‍

Our survey revealed some pretty sobering numbers:

1. Delays that came out of nowhere (33.11%)
2. Extra costs that weren't in the original quote (32.76%)
3. Finishing touches that looked like they were done by a five-year-old (23.21%)
4. Contractors disappearing with deposits (8.87%)

These numbers are pretty cut and dry: there's a systemic issue with how renovation projects are both managed and communicated. And those stolen deposits? That's a breach of trust that can leave homeowners wary of ever starting another project.

‍

How We're Tackling This at Bidmii

‍

At Bidmii, we're not just sitting back and shaking our heads at these problems. We're rolling up our sleeves and working to change the game. Our mission? To make home improvement a process you can actually look forward to, not dread. Here's how we're doing it:

1. Secure Payments: We hold payment for each project stage in trust upfront. Think of it as a safety deposit box for your renovation funds.
2. Vetted Contractors: We connect you with contractors who've proven their reliability. No more rolling the dice on whether your contractor will show up or do quality work.
3. Transparent Approval Process: Contractors can't just collect their pay and run. They need your stamp of approval on their work before they see a dime.
4. Quick Payments for Contractors: Once you're happy with the work, we make sure contractors get paid within 48 hours. Happy contractors mean better work for you.

‍

Protecting Yourself as a Homeowner

‍

While we're doing our part at Bidmii, there are steps you can take to protect yourself, whether you're using our platform or not:

1. Do Your Homework: Check that your contractor is licensed and insured. It's like checking a restaurant's health rating before eating there – it just makes sense.
2. Be a Detective: Read online reviews and ask for references. I always say, "A good contractor should be proud to show off their past work."
3. Get It in Writing: Make sure you have a detailed contract that covers timelines, costs, and payment schedules. It's not about mistrust; it's about clarity.
4. Keep the Lines Open: Regular chats with your contractor can nip problems in the bud before they become major headaches.

‍

Wrapping It Up

‍

The home renovation industry in Canada is at a crossroads, and we at Bidmii are committed to steering it in the right direction. We're all about rebuilding trust and making sure your renovation dreams don't turn into nightmares.

If you want to dive deeper into the survey findings, check out our main article that breaks down all the stats. And if you're planning a renovation, why not give us a try? Join our community and experience a new standard of trust in home improvement. After all, your home deserves the best, and so do you.

‍