If you want to build or sell new homes in Ontario, your business needs to be registered with the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA). The HCRA regulates builders and vendors of new homes, enforces industry standards and promotes solid business practices that consumers can count on. It also handles complaints and investigations. It can revoke or suspend a license and pursue prosecution if a builder or vendor breaks the law.
You must pass an exam and meet education, training and competency requirements to become a licensed builder or vendor with the HCRA. You must also enroll all new homes in the Ontario New Home Warranty Program. This is a requirement for all builders and vendors, even those who only build and sell a few homes each year. The HCRA also ensures that new homes built by a licensed builder are compliant with the province’s building codes, permits, environmental regulations, safety standards and accessibility guidelines.
A Registered Home Builder in Toronto can help you achieve your dream home, whether you’re building an urban retreat or a modern loft. They know how to integrate contemporary design concepts and innovative technologies into your project. Moreover, they use high-quality materials and finishes to enhance the look and feel of your property. They also know how to maximize the space of a small or large home, thereby increasing its resale value.
A reputable Home Builder can also help you save money by implementing energy-efficient features in your new home, which can lower your utility bills and increase the value of your property. These include wall insulation, structural insulating panels and ductless heat pumps. Additionally, a professional can help you choose durable materials that can stand the test of time, such as polymer-coated wood items and granite countertops.
The best way to find a reliable and experienced Home Builder is to ask for referrals from family members, friends or coworkers. Once you’ve found a few, make sure to research their background and past projects. You can also check if they have any outstanding liens against them from unpaid sub-contractors.
The HCRA also maintains the Ontario Builder Directory, a searchable database that provides important information about a builder’s history and business practices. It allows users to verify a builder’s licence status, whether they have been convicted of any offences and whether their homes are enrolled with Tarion. In addition, it includes historical information about the builder’s warranty claims and performance history. This is an excellent resource for prospective home buyers, and the HCRA recently enhanced the website so that builders can be searched by their operating name rather than legal name. This is a major change from the past, when only a few companies were listed by their legal names. This change is designed to improve consumer protection.