Even though this year the winter, which started very early, seems endless for many, it is also the ideal time to plan spring work, as good contractors book up early. Paving, landscaping, exterior repairs, drainage, painting… it is better to get started now.
Step 1: Define your needs
Before contacting anyone, clarify your expectations:
- What final result do you want?
- What is the purpose of the work?
- What level of quality do you expect?
Work generally falls into three categories:
1. Repair (leak, breakage, infiltration, etc.)
2. Maintenance (snow removal, cleaning, landscaping)
3. Improvement (renovations, modernization, beautification)
Step 2: Identify the source of the problem
For repairs, it is crucial to understand the real cause of the issue.
Hiding a problem only delays a more costly repair.
Often, determining the source is the most complex part. The APQ recommends calling on an expert to properly diagnose the issue and propose the right solution.
Step 3: Establish evaluation points
To compare bids fairly, prepare a clear call for tenders:
- A written quote describing the work precisely
- A detailed and complete quote
- A work schedule
- Coordination with tenants if access to the dwelling is required
- Expected timelines for the intervention
Step 4: Define your important criteria
To plan effectively:
- Start date
- Duration of the work
- Estimated number of hours
- Penalties in case of delay
- Specific constraints (access, noise, parking)
These elements must be clear for you… and for the contractor.
Step 5: Verify the supplier’s requirements
Before choosing a contractor, validate:
- RBQ licence, CCQ competency cards, certifications
- Years of experience
- Similar projects completed
- Liability insurance
- Type of equipment used
- Number of employees assigned to the project
- Storage needs
- Access to the premises, meters, water, electricity
- Commitment to provide progress reports
Step 6: Prepare the service call documents
- Allow 2 to 4 weeks to receive all bids
- Indicate the possibilities for site visits
- Provide the contact information of the responsible person
Step 7: Select the suppliers invited to bid
To avoid bad experiences, prioritize:
- References from other landlords
- Contractors with a documented good reputation
Step 8: Evaluate the responses
At the end of the call for tenders:
- Wait for all responses before evaluating
- Exclude late submissions
- Exclude those that do not meet the criteria
- Verify the ability to meet deadlines
- Compare the entire offer, not just the price
- Check for potential disputes (Courthouse, CSST, RBQ, CCQ)
The lowest price is not always the best choice.
Step 9: Sign the contract
Once the supplier is chosen:
- Have a written contract prepared
- Ensure it includes all criteria from the call for tenders
- Confirm payment terms
- Clearly indicate the work dates
All that remains is to admire your work being carried out.
Prepare your bids: Winter will eventually give way to spring!
