Photo courtesy of Gladwin Design Build Renovate
By Sarah Caron
Many homeowners in the Ottawa area enjoying superb, high-end renovations are familiar with the RenoMark® symbol. They see it on renovators’ websites and signage and know it means exceptional quality.
Renovators and trade contractors also understand what that symbol means. RenoMark elevates their credibility. It signifies a commitment to their professionalism, integrity and continuous improvement where, in the dynamic world of home renovation, trust and quality are paramount.
RenoMark was developed in Toronto by the Building Industry and Land Development Association – Greater Toronto Area (BILD GTA). The program was launched in 2001.
The program was designed to identify professional renovators and give homeowners knowledge and confidence about how to find and what to expect from a professional contractor. It would cost homeowners nothing. The renovators would abide by a renovation-specific code of conduct that was strict, demanding and unyielding.
Ottawa renovators introduced the brand-new concept to their Ottawa colleagues and worked hard to promote it. In time it became well respected by high-end renovators in the area.
In 2017, the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) and BILD in the Greater Toronto Area began a partnership to grow RenoMark into a comprehensive, national program. Membership in RenoMark swelled to include more than 1,200 companies from Newfoundland to British Columbia. The RenoMark website (renomark.ca), and the launch of a number of social media channels further supported the growing awareness of the program.
New ownership
This year, on Feb. 7, 2024, the CHBA Board of Directors approved a joint motion brought forward by the Canadian Renovators’ Council (CRC) and the Executive Officers’ Council (EOC) for BILD-GTA to transfer ownership of the RenoMark trademark and website to CHBA to facilitate the full administration of the RenoMark program to home builders’ associations and members across the country, and further grow the brand.
Online verification system
With the transfer of the ownership of the RenoMark program now complete, CHBA has launched the much-anticipated RenoMark online verification system.
This online tool will streamline the program’s administration through full integration with the national membership database, automated reminders, annual renewals and random audit capabilities.
It is a crucial step not only for renovators.
It also enhances the credibility of the program with homeowners. It provides peace of mind when they know that RenoMark membership has been validated by a reputable, national industry association.
An extra layer of protection
The written contract and minimum two-year warranty required by the program provide an extra layer of protection, ensuring that any issues arising from a renovation will be promptly addressed by the RenoMark member. It is through this rigorous code of conduct, commitment to quality, and emphasis on clear communication that establishes RenoMark as the gold standard in home renovation.
To be verified, RenoMark members must attest to the RenoMark Code of Conduct and provide a copy of their contract, warranty and liability insurance. They must agree to the terms and conditions to use the RenoMark symbol. This rigorous process demonstrates their commitment to upholding industry standards and ethical business practices.
Renovators are also encouraged to submit client testimonials and before-and-after project images to feature on the RenoMark website and social media channels so everyone can see them.
The verification serves as a stamp of approval from a trusted authority, alleviating homeowners’ concerns and instilling confidence and peace of mind in their choice of renovator.
A class of their own
Official verification is a powerful differentiator that sets RenoMark members apart from cash operators.
Aligning with the RenoMark brand provides renovators with additional access to valuable resources, training programs and networking opportunities within the industry. This not only helps members stay up to date on the latest trends and best practices. It also assures homeowners of the quality of RenoMark renovators and the level of trust they can feel about their integrity.
When it’s time to hire a contractor or renovator, it comes down to one important question: Can this company be held accountable?
The RenoMark program answers “yes”.
Sarah Caron is the Director of Renovation Services for the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, leading the RenoMark program, the Adaptive Home Renovation Course, and Canadian Renovators Council.