August 28, 2025
Renovating your home is one of the most exciting and costly investments you can make. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, finishing a basement, or transforming a dated bathroom, the renovation process should bring quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and value to your property.
But not all renovation experiences are positive. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for a renovation contractor to cut corners, leaving homeowners with poor workmanship, unexpected expenses, and even safety concerns.
If you’re planning a remodel in Edmonton or have already hired someone, it’s crucial to understand the signs that your contractor might not be doing the job right. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the red flags to watch for and how to protect your investment.
Before a single tool is lifted, your renovation should have a clearly defined scope of work. This includes detailed timelines, materials lists, payment terms, and permit requirements. If your contractor seems too eager to “just get started” without finalizing the plan in writing, it’s a major warning sign.
In Edmonton, city permits are required for structural, electrical, or plumbing work. A contractor who skips this step may be trying to save time, but they’re putting you at legal and financial risk.
Everyone loves a good deal, but when it comes to home renovations, a lowball quote often hides a bigger problem. Shady contractors may underbid to win the job, then use inferior materials or unskilled labour to stay within budget.
Compare estimates from multiple Edmonton renovation contractors and be wary of anyone significantly lower than the rest. Quality materials and licensed tradespeople come at a fair price.
Pro tip: Ask for material brands and product specs in writing. If your quote just says “fixtures” or “paint,” that’s not enough.
Some contractors will install cheaper materials without telling the homeowner. You might request quartz countertops and get low-grade laminate. Or ask for tile and end up with stick-on vinyl planks.
It’s critical to verify all materials before and during installation. Ask for invoices, inspect labels, and don’t hesitate to question any substitutions. A legitimate home renovation contractor should be transparent and provide documentation.
In Edmonton, major renovations often require building permits and inspections. If your contractor insists that “you don’t need one,” they may be avoiding oversight.
Work done without permits can result in stop-work orders, fines, or forced tear-downs. Worse yet, you could be left with unsafe electrical or structural issues.
You can check if a permit is required by visiting the City of Edmonton’s Permit Portal.
A trusted renovation contractor will work with licensed electricians, plumbers, and other trades. If you notice workers who avoid your questions, arrive without uniforms, or seem inexperienced, the contractor might be hiring low-cost, unqualified labour.
This not only affects quality but also exposes you to liability. Always ask for proof of insurance, business licensing, and WCB coverage. You can verify licenses through Service Alberta.
A professional contractor will conduct a final walkthrough to review the project, identify defects, and complete a punch list before accepting the final payment. If yours tries to collect payment without this step, they may be hiding shortcuts or unfinished work.
Ask for a warranty on workmanship and keep a written record of any issues you notice. Quality renovation contractors stand by their work and will resolve concerns before closing out the job.
If your contractor avoids your calls, won’t provide updates, or keeps changing deadlines without explanation, they may be hiding delays, mistakes, or cost-saving changes behind your back.
Professional renovation companies prioritize clear communication and provide regular progress updates, change order documentation, and cost breakdowns.
At Renovation King General Contractors, we help Edmonton homeowners and property managers bring their renovation goals to life with confidence. Our experienced team is committed to delivering custom renovation services that never compromise on quality, safety, or transparency.
Whether it’s a full home remodel, kitchen upgrade, basement finish, or custom cabinetry, we manage every detail, from engineered plans and city approvals to the final walkthrough.
If you’re looking for a reliable renovation contractor in Edmonton who does things right the first time, get in touch with Reno King today.
Contact us here to discuss your renovation project.
