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You’re in the right place!  We are a husband and wife team who LOVE this business and love doing good work for good people.  We’re believe in the face-to-face version of this business built and not the one that hides behind websites and fake five star reviews.

As a husband-and-wife team we’ve been in and around the home business for over thirty years.  And because of that, we can’t possibly convey all of that experience in a few mouse clicks.  Reach out.  Connect.  Come see us at one of the home shows.  We are quietly one of the fastest growing renovation companies in Calgary and look forward to hearing about your project large or small. Just FYI, EVERY contractors bread and butter are smaller projects so don’t hesitate to reach out.

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Renovation Contract Essentials: What Every Calgary Homeowner Must Know

Renovation Planning

The Contract Is Your Protection

A renovation contract isn’t just a formality — it’s the document that protects you if things go wrong, defines what “done” means, and sets expectations for both sides. Here’s what every Calgary homeowner’s renovation contract should include.

Must-Have Contract Elements

1. Detailed Scope of Work

Not “kitchen renovation” — it should list every major element: specific cabinet manufacturer and model, countertop material and thickness, tile brand and code, fixture model numbers, electrical scope, plumbing scope, what is excluded.

2. Contract Price and Allowances

Fixed price (better for homeowner) or cost-plus with a cap. If there are “allowances” (e.g., “$3,000 tile allowance”), understand that going over the allowance is a change order — it costs you more.

3. Payment Schedule

Tied to milestones, not to calendar dates. Example:

  • 10% on signing
  • 25% on demo completion
  • 25% on rough-in inspections passed
  • 25% on drywall and flooring complete
  • 15% on substantial completion

Never pay more than the work completed to date.

4. Start and Completion Dates

With a penalty clause for late completion (or at minimum an agreed process for delays and communication).

5. Change Order Process

All changes to scope must be in writing, signed by both parties, before work begins. Change orders that aren’t in writing are the source of most renovation disputes in Calgary.

6. Permit Responsibility

Clearly state that the contractor is responsible for pulling all required permits and scheduling all inspections.

7. Warranty

Minimum one year on labour for most projects. Alberta’s New Home Buyer Protection Act covers new builds (1 year labour, 2 years mechanical, 5 years building envelope, 10 years structural). For renovations, negotiate in writing.

8. Lien Waiver Clause

Protect yourself from subcontractors and suppliers placing liens on your property if the GC doesn’t pay them. Request statutory declarations from the GC confirming all subs and suppliers are paid at each payment milestone.

9. Insurance Requirements

State the minimum liability insurance ($2M) and WCB coverage required, and that certificates must be provided before work starts.

10. Dispute Resolution

How will disputes be handled? Mediation first (cheaper than court). Which jurisdiction? Alberta law.

Red Flag Contract Clauses

  • “All payments non-refundable” — walk away
  • No warranty language at all
  • Payment schedule requiring 50%+ upfront
  • Contractor can change the price without your written approval
  • No completion date

Get a Lawyer to Review Large Contracts

For renovations over $100,000, spend $500–$1,500 on a construction lawyer review. It’s cheap insurance on a six-figure investment.

Related Articles

Pillar Guide: Home Renovations Calgary: The Complete Guide

Also read: How to Choose a Renovation Contractor Calgary | Calgary Renovation Costs Master Guide 2026

Contact Olympic City Renovations for a free consultation.

Olympic City Renovations serves Calgary, Priddis, Okotoks, and surrounding communities.