What should be included in your Quebec construction or renovation contract?
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 12
- 5 min read
Updated: 1 day ago

When planning a construction or renovation project in Quebec—whether for a house, cottage, or garage—it's essential to establish a clear and detailed contract with your contractor. Too often, verbal agreements lead to misunderstandings, extended delays, or unexpected costs. At Plan Maison Québec, we know that a well-drafted contract is the best guarantee for successfully completing your project in a climate of trust.
Why is a written contract essential?
A written contract is more than just an agreement. It serves as the legal basis for the relationship between you and the contractor, ensuring that every step of the project is governed and your rights are protected. The Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) emphasizes the importance of writing down all the conditions surrounding a residential renovation project. This helps prevent any possible misinterpretation of what was agreed upon.

Identification of the parties concerned
The contract must first clearly identify all the people involved. Your full contact information, the site address, and the contractor's legal identity must be clearly stated. This includes their business name, RBQ license number, as well as their business and tax numbers. If you're dealing with a corporation, the name of the person responsible for the project must also be included.
This initial transparency is crucial for establishing trust and ensuring that the contractor is qualified to successfully complete your project.
A detailed description of the work to be carried out
One of the central elements of the contract is the description of the work. The more detailed this section is, the more protected you will be. Every aspect of the project must be documented: the nature of the work, the materials to be used, the planned finishes, and even the execution techniques, if these are important to you. This level of precision not only allows you to monitor the progress of the project, but also ensures that the final result meets your expectations.
At Plan Maison Québec, we always recommend planning a timeline for the various stages of completion, along with an approximate schedule. This avoids unpleasant surprises and allows for better time management.

Permits and administrative responsibilities
Another important aspect of the contract is determining who will be responsible for obtaining the necessary permits for the work. In many Quebec municipalities, certain construction or renovation projects cannot begin without official authorization. It is therefore essential that the contract clearly specifies whether this task falls to the contractor or the client.
As the client, you must ensure that all permits are in order before work begins. This will help you avoid fines or additional delays.
Project costs and payment terms
A solid contract must absolutely include the total cost of the project, including labor, materials, transportation costs, rental equipment, and any other expense items. Payment terms must also be clear: when must each installment be paid, and according to what criteria?
Avoid paying too much upfront. A small initial deposit is common, but ensure payments are made based on actual progress. Some practices recommend retaining a percentage of the final payment until the work is fully and satisfactorily completed.
At Plan Maison Québec, we encourage our clients to request clear invoices and avoid undeclared cash payments. This protects you legally and allows you to assert your rights in the event of a dispute.

Insurance and guarantees offered
A good contractor must have valid liability insurance to cover accidents or property damage that may occur during the work. This should be included in the contract. Other types of insurance, such as one covering damage to the structure, may also be useful depending on the scope of the project.
The contract should also include a section on warranties. Is the work guaranteed for a certain period of time? What happens in the event of poor workmanship? These details are often overlooked, but can make all the difference if problems arise after the project is completed.
Safety and cleanliness of the construction site
It is important that the contract stipulates that the contractor is committed to complying with applicable safety standards. This includes the protection of workers, but also that of occupants, if the project involves renovations in an occupied home. In addition, the contract should include a commitment from the contractor to keep the site clean during and after the work.
This attention to detail contributes to a better customer experience and demonstrates the contractor's professionalism.

Managing unforeseen events and changes
In almost every project, changes may occur along the way. Whether it's a technical adjustment or a modification requested by the client, it's important that the contract includes a mechanism for handling these changes. The procedure must be clear: any changes must be approved in writing, accompanied by an amendment to the contract, and specify the impact on costs and deadlines.
At Plan Maison Québec, we encourage our clients to carefully document these adjustments to avoid any gray areas once the project is completed.
Your recourse in case of a problem
Despite all precautions, disputes can arise. The contract must therefore specify possible recourses. For example, if the contractor fails to meet deadlines or if the quality of the work is inferior to what was expected, you have rights. The Régie du bâtiment du Québec and the Office de la protection du consommateur can help you assert these rights.
It is also wise to require in the contract that the contractor provide you with a release from all subcontractors upon completion of the work, to avoid any claims or legal hypothecs that could be filed against your property.

Conclusion: Quebec construction and renovation contract
A well-drafted contract is the foundation of a successful project. It's your best protection against unforeseen events and misunderstandings, and a powerful tool to ensure your vision comes to life according to your expectations. At Plan Maison Québec, we are more than just plan designers. We are your partners in the success of your construction or renovation project. So, what does your Quebec construction and renovation contract contains?
Even before the first hammer falls, contact our team to discuss your project and receive comprehensive support, from planning to project monitoring. We'll help you ask the right questions, choose the right professionals, and build with confidence.
Plan for the future today with Plan Maison Québec.
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