General Questions

We offer a comprehensive range of construction and renovation services, including:

• Full home renovations and remodeling
• Kitchen and bathroom remodeling
• Basement finishing and conversions
• Home additions and extensions
• Custom home building
• Commercial renovations and tenant improvements
• Exterior renovations (siding, roofing, windows)
• Structural repairs and modifications
• Permit acquisition and code compliance management

We primarily serve Ottawa region , including surrounding communities within a 50-km radius. For larger projects, we may consider locations outside this area on a case-by-case basis. 

Yes, we maintain all required provincial and local licenses for general contracting and specialized work. Our company carries comprehensive general liability insurance, workers' compensation coverage, and professional liability insurance. We're happy to provide verification of these credentials upon request. 

Our leadership team brings over 30 years of combined experience in residential and commercial construction. We employ skilled tradespeople with specialized expertise in framing, finishing, electrical, plumbing, and other critical areas. Many of our team members hold advanced certifications in their respective fields. 

We develop detailed estimates based on several factors:

• Square footage and scope of work
• Quality of materials selected
• Structural requirements and existing conditions
• Mechanical/electrical/plumbing modifications needed
• Permit and inspection requirements
• Project timeline and scheduling considerations

Unlike some companies that provide vague ballpark figures, we conduct thorough on-site assessments and develop line-item estimates that account for labor, materials, subcontractor costs, and project management.

  We provide complimentary initial consultations and estimates for most standard projects. For highly complex renovations requiring specialized engineering assessments or extensive design work, we may recommend a paid feasibility study that can later be credited toward your project if you choose to proceed with our company. 

For major renovations, we recommend contacting us 3-6 months before your desired start date. This allows adequate time for design development, material selection, permitting, and production scheduling. Medium projects may require less lead time, but our schedule typically fills 2-3 months in advance during peak seasons. 

Our thorough pre-construction assessment process helps minimize surprises, but when unforeseen conditions are discovered (like hidden water damage or non-compliant previous work), we:

1. Document the issue with photos and detailed descriptions
2. Present you with available solutions and associated costs
3. Work with relevant experts (engineers, code officials) when necessary
4. Implement the agreed-upon solution only after receiving your written approval
5. Update the project schedule to account for any additional work

This depends on the project scope. For whole-home renovations, temporarily relocating is often recommended. For contained projects like a bathroom remodel, most clients can remain in their homes with minimal disruption. During your consultation, we'll discuss the impacts of construction on daily living and help you make an informed decision. 

We employ a comprehensive dust control strategy that includes:

• Installing temporary dust barriers with negative air pressure systems
• Using HEPA-filtered equipment and air scrubbers
• Implementing daily cleaning protocols
• Protecting HVAC systems from contamination
• Designating specific pathways for construction traffic
• Covering furniture and belongings in adjacent areas

We maintain regular communication through:

• Weekly scheduled progress meetings
• A dedicated project management system where you can track progress
• Daily site reports documenting work completed
• Immediate notification of any significant discoveries or decisions needed
• Regular photo and video documentation of work in progress

Yes, we offer comprehensive material selection support through:

• Access to our established vendor relationships with preferred pricing
• Guided showroom visits with our design professionals
• Digital material boards and visualization tools
• Material samples brought to your home for in-context evaluation
• Expert advice on durability, maintenance, and performance considerations

IOS Renovations stands behind our work with a comprehensive warranty structure:

• 1-year warranty on all workmanship
• 5-year warranty on structural elements
• Pass-through of all manufacturer warranties on products and materials
• Extended warranty options available for select projects

Additionally, we conduct 30-day, 6-month, and 1-year follow-up inspections to address any warranty items proactively.

Quality control is built into every phase of our process:

• Detailed project specifications and construction documents
• Regular inspections by project managers and company principals
• Phased inspections before closing walls or covering work
• Adherence to manufacturer installation guidelines
• Third-party testing when appropriate (e.g., blower door tests for energy efficiency)
• Comprehensive pre-completion inspection and quality verification

Our typical payment schedule follows project milestones:

• 10-15% deposit upon contract signing
• Progress payments tied to completion of specific phases (typically 25-30% increments)
• 10% final payment upon substantial completion and walk-through

For larger projects, we can develop customized payment schedules aligned with project phases.

Any modifications to the original scope are managed through our formal change order process:

1. Changes are documented in writing with detailed cost and schedule implications
2. No additional work is performed without signed approval
3. Change orders are priced consistently with original contract rates
4. Emergency changes (addressing safety concerns) may be executed immediately with documentation to follow.

As part of our turnkey service, we manage all aspects of permitting:

• Preparing and submitting permit applications
• Providing required documentation and construction drawings
• Scheduling and attending inspections
• Addressing any code compliance questions
• Obtaining final approvals and certificates of occupancy

We maintain strong relationships with local building departments and understand jurisdiction-specific requirements.

Your project will need to comply with:

• Current Ontario Residential Building Code ( OBC ) and National Building Code ( NBC ) as adopted locally.
• Local amendments and zoning requirements
• Energy conservation codes
• Specific requirements for historic districts if applicable
• ESA Electrical and safety authority 
• Homeowner association guidelines if applicable

Our team stays current with code updates and enforcement trends to ensure compliant design and construction.

Depending on your project and location, you may need specialized permits or approvals for:

• Zoning variances for additions that modify the building footprint
• Historic preservation review for designated properties
• Environmental permits for properties near wetlands or protected areas
• HOA  Homeowners Association  approvals for exterior modifications
• Engineering certifications for structural modifications
• HYDRO approvals for service changes

We'll identify all required approvals during our initial assessment and build them into the project timeline.

Upon project completion, we provide:

• A comprehensive homeowner's manual with maintenance schedules
• Digital copies of all product manuals and warranty information
• Specific care instructions for specialized materials or systems
• Recommended maintenance service providers
• Video tutorials for operating new systems or equipment

Our relationship continues beyond project completion with our dedicated follow-up process:

• 2-week post-completion check-in
• 30-day adjustments visit to address any settlement or usage-related items
• 11-month warranty inspection before the 1-year warranty period ends
• 24/7 emergency contact for urgent issues
• Priority scheduling for warranty service calls

Yes, we offer several post-project service options:

• Scheduled maintenance checks for complex systems
• Seasonal adjustment services (particularly for exterior features)
• Minor repair and touch-up programs
• Future planning consultations for phased renovations
• Referrals to specialized maintenance providers when needed

While rare, we address any concerns through our structured resolution process:

1. Direct discussion with your project manager to identify issues
2. Involvement of company principals for more complex matters
3. Reference to contract specifications and industry standards
4. Third-party mediation if necessary (rarely required)

Our reputation is built on client satisfaction, and we're committed to reasonable resolution of any concerns that arise.