frequently asked questions
FAQs for Contractors
I uploaded my company logo, its stretched and distorted, how do I get it looking right?
Just email us your logo at bidmyreno@bidmyreno.com, let us know what your account name is and we’ll take care of the rest.
I subscribed for bidding but I am still unable to place any bids?!?
Sometimes the PayPal system just needs a little nudge - especially if you’re resubscribing. Send us an email at bidmyreno@bidmyreno.com, let us know your account name, when you subscribed, who subscribed you, etc. and we’ll get you back up and running.
What is a registered contractor?
A registered contractor has provided bidmyreno.com with information from which a contractor profile page on the bidmyreno.com system has been created. Such information includes the contractor name, the primary contact person's name and address, and any other information provided to us at the contractor's choosing. Registered contractors may register for free but may not place a bid on any project until they have paid a monthly/annual fee to access the "bid now" features on the site.
Every contractor profile page has a comment area where former customers are encouraged to leave feedback. This helps our users know our contractors better.
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FAQs for Clients
Who will be able to view my project listing? Will I get phone calls at my house?
Your contact information is not viewable by anyone. You will choose which contractors to contact once you are satisfied with the contractor's profile and bid details. We recommend that you do not place your telephone number anywhere on your listing. Remember to white out or delete any address numbers on your plans as well.
How do I get started? I have a project in mind but I have no plans.
bidmyreno.com has a "getting started" page that will provide you with a simple project listing for designers/architects/engineers to review your ideas. Simply post your project idea and qualified people that can produce plans for your project will submit a bid for your design work. If you have no intention of hiring a designer, you may choose to sketch your project on your own. There are many design software packages available from your local electronics/computer store or from an on-line provider. Once you are happy with the plan for your project, you are ready to post your project on our system for contractors to bid. If you have no need for plans, please take a digital photograph of the working area and provide a description of the work required.
How do I know which contractor is the best for me?
bidmyreno.com recommends that you ask as many questions as you can either in advance of meeting or during any onsite meetings. Ask for references and please contact them. Ultimately you need to make this choice on your own, keeping all factors such as budget, comfort and schedule in mind. Remember that the good contractors are never ashamed to answer questions. Your architect and designer may also assist with your decision.
Does my contractor need a building permit?
bidmyreno.com recommends that you take a fail/safe attitude. Always assume that you need a permit from local authorities to perform any construction work on your property. Ask our contractors/designers/architects this question, and make sure that you are satisfied that a permit has been obtained for any work performed on your property prior to construction start. Most professional contractors are obligated to take permits or they will risk losing their license to operate. Such relatively simple jobs which include electrical, plumbing and structural items will certainly require a permit. Please ask your contractor to provide proof of the "Building Permit", and any public posting requirements prior to construction start. Ultimately the property owner "you" is responsible. bidmyreno.com wants your construction project to be successful so please make the building permit obligation your contractor's responsibility and CLEARLY STATE THE BUILDING PERMIT OBLIGATION in your written contract.
Structural repairs: How do I know that the contractor is recommending the best method for repairing my property's structural problems?
If you are dealing with a structural issue, such as a foundation repair/replacement or addition, it is highly recommended that you have a professional engineer evaluate the contractors proposed bid and construction methods. It would be even better to have the engineer prepare a recommended method in advance of pricing to ensure that the contractor has priced the best method into his bid.
Get it in Writing!
bidmyreno.com requires that all clients get detailed bids in writing. We have provided a template for your contractor to use if he/she does not already have a standard. The contractor must provide a detailed cost breakdown, including materials to be used, as well as a schedule and payment requirements to you. Make sure the document has the contractors name and signature on it for your records. For advice on standard progress payment requirements, contact your local construction association and ask friends and neighbours for their experience and advice. Never pay for any service in full and in advance.
What is the bid end date?
bidmyreno.com requires that you insert an "bid end" date, from which point your project is removed from the "active projects" page and no further bids may be submitted. As you know, contractors need to spend time evaluating your project and it is helpful to them to know that the project "closes" after a certain date. You should expect several last minute bids, as this is the norm in the industry. Remember that contractors are very busy and will often decide to bid once they are closer to the end date and therefore closer to the start date of the project.
Are the bids binding?
No the submitted bids are not binding. If your project is simple, it may be possible for a contractor to submit a bid that is very close to the bid price with very little project detail for review. For instance, if you have a flooring refinishing, or a drywall repair and you have provided a description of the area and a photograph, contractors may be able to bid on this easily. If the project is complex but you have taken the time to detail all the materials and plans required, then it is also possible for the contractor to place an accurate bid. You may wish to schedule an onsite meeting for contractors to meet you and to discuss the project details in person.
Can I rate my contractors?
Yes, bidmyreno.com has established a "thumb's up" rating system. Only registered bidmyreno.com contractors may be rated and they are rated only upon completion of a project.
