FAQ's

  • What is Duval Renovations’ part in my renovation?
  • Do you do your own work or will you be using crews and sub-contractors?
  • What are sub-contractors?
  • Who is responsible for cleaning at the end of the day?
  • What are the payment terms?
  • Can you design and draw up plans for our renovation?
  • Do we need plans?
  • Are the plans you provide free?
  • Do we need permits?
  • Do we need to sign a contract?
  • Will the price on the contract be the final price?
  • How long will my project take?
  • What can cause delays on my project?
  • Does Duval Renovations require that changes be in writing?
  • Who is responsible for moving personal items from the work area?
  • Should I move out during construction or renovation?
  • What do I do with my pets when Duval Renovations is working in my home?
  • Will I be able to select the actual products for my project?
  • Can I schedule an appointment for after hours?
  •  

    Answers

    1. What is Duval Renovations’ part in my renovation?
    A: We are a management resource. We supervise the project from the first shovel of dirt to the last finishing nail. We ensure the job site is organized, free of hazards and safe for workers. We hire and manage all sub-contractors who will work at the job site to ensure the project runs smoothly and efficiently.

    2. Do you do your own work or will you be using crews and sub-contractors?
    We will do most of the work but do hire licensed sub-contractors when required. To preserve high quality of our work Duval Renovations never subcontracts portions of the work we are competent to do ourselves.

    3. What are sub-contractors?
    A: Sub-contractors are licensed to perform their specific job. They are hired and managed by Duval Renovations to work on plumbing, electrical, heating, mechanicals and more.

    4. Who is responsible for cleaning at the end of the day?
    A: We are. We will make a good faith effort to clean up the work site daily. This includes sweeping, vacuuming and running a magnet over the ground to pick up metal debris, such as nails to ensure a clean and safe environment.

    5. What are the payment terms?
    A: Payments are due stage based on construction progress (milestone payments) or 50% prior to the start of job then full balance due immediately at completion. We accept cash or check payments.

    6. Can you design and draw up plans for our renovation?
    A: Yes. We will talk to you about ideas you have already come up with and incorporate them into our drawings. Your feedback is crucial during this process and the final decision on the plans is yours.

    7. Do we need plans?
    A: All major renovations should have plans. This helps eliminate confusion for all involved in the renovation project (clients, contractors and sub-contractors).

    8. Are the plans you provide free?
    A: No. The price of plans will vary depending on the complexity of your project. However, the price of the plans will be deducted from the cost of the renovation when you hire Duval Renovations to complete the work.

    9. Do we need permits?
    A: Cosmetic work, such as new flooring, painting and trims work, do not require permits. However, in cases where plumbing, electrical components and gas lines require movement then a permit is required. Please visit the City of Ottawa website for further details: www.ottawa.ca . Duval Renovations will help your with the process of obtaining a permit.

    10. Do we need to sign a contract?
    A: Yes. We will have a written agreement, which outlines the scope of work, warrantees, timelines, costs, liability etc.

    11. Will the price on the contract be the final price?
    A: Yes, for the work described on the contract. However, the renovation process may uncover hidden problems that need to be addressed (ie: mold, rotten wood structure, asbestos, unsafe electrical wiring). You, the client, should include a contingency budget to cover unforeseen costs.

    12. How long will my project take?
    A: Once the design has been finalized, we can give you a good estimate of when we’ll finish your project. As a guideline, renovations take several weeks to several months depending on many factors including the level of detail, size and complexity of your project.

    13. What can cause delays on my project?
    A: Unfortunately, minor delays can happen. Delays are normally caused by special ordered items or items not in stock at suppliers. Also, changes to the original design and the weather can cause minor delays. We make every possible effort to respect the underlined schedule.

    14. Does Duval Renovations require that changes be in writing?
    A: Yes. For example: upgrades, design changes and product changes are all required to be submitted in writing. A new revised contract id then provided. This would eliminate surprises and allows you to make sound financial decisions.

    15. Who is responsible for moving personal items from the work area?
    A: Clients are responsible for ensuring their furniture and belongings are removed from the work area prior to the start of work. Duval Renovations’ price is based on efficient access to the work area. Although we will be reasonable and somewhat accommodating, we reserve the right to seek additional compensation if these tasks are not completed. However, we do offer moving and storage services.

    16. Should I move out during construction or renovation?
    A: This depends on the scope of your project. There needs to be at least one working bathroom and the resources to prepare meals. You will need comfortable and safe sleeping arrangements. It is sometimes difficult and hazardous to have children or pets in a construction zone. We can help advise you.

    17. What do I do with my pets when Duval Renovations is working in my home?
    A: All pets must be cordoned off in such a manner as to allow the crew efficient access to the work area. If this is not possible, you must make arrangements to keep your pet elsewhere for the days Duval Renovations are working in your home.

    18. Will I be able to select the actual products for my project?
    A: Yes. You will select all specialty products like doors, hardware, trim, windows, siding, plumbing and electrical fixtures, flooring and paint colors with our guidance. These are normally chosen to closely match the existing items in your home or specific design tastes.

    19. Can I schedule an appointment for after hours?
    A: Yes, but in most cases we try to schedule appointments during normal business hours.

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