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Other than getting a couple of estimates, what basic questions should you ask someone who is proposing to do some reno work in your house Thank you

have 10 references so I can call a few to see how your work is!!! This is a deal breaker unless they are just starting out. In that case ask for last few employers.

Good advice asking for references. You might ask too if they have a portfolio or website of their work, how long they've been in business, and ask how their billing is handled. If it's 100% up front before work is started, that would be a huge concern to me. Upfront money, however for purchasing materials to start the project is standard practice.  
 
The contractor should be ok with progress payments as the work proceeds and agreeing to a holdback of funds if you run into any problems with job completion. The very best scenario is a contractor who actually has a professional contract that both parties sign. If so, read it carefully and ask questions if you don't understand something in the fine print.  
 
Put your plans and wishes in writing to them and keep records by having a paper, text or email trail. If you're away at work and they're working in your home and you come back to have the wrong things installed in the wrong place or not how you'd laid it out, you have some back up.  
 
I have found most local contractors to be good and honest, but there might be some fly by night ones as in any profession.  
 
The more communication and tracking of who is going to do what, how, by when, how it's going to go down and payment structure, the better.  
 
Good luck and don't be afraid to ask lots of questions! Reputable contractors will always expect that and don't mind when communication is key.  
 
 
 
 
 
Edited by Kellye, 2016-02-04 09:32:20

this should cover requirements of a contract  
http://www.chba.ca/renovating/contract-completion/renovation-contract.aspx  
 
there should be sample contracts out there or go with one the contractor provides if you trust it is in your favor.

For all the information - much appreciated.

Ask if they are properly insured (so that if they do something like burn you house down) you have recourse. A starting liability insurance is about 2 million.  
 
You have every right to see their business operating license as well - and their GST number should be on all contracts.  
 
For electrical, structural or plumbing work, a reputable contractor had better not say anything abut not needing proper permits. Nor should they take you on as a customer if you ask to circumvent the rules (ie no permits, cash under the table, etc)  
 
If they cannot prove any of the above - walk away. There are A LOT of "under the table contractors" in this area who are not remitting proper taxes, not paying their employees properly (especially not covering their WCB) and a lot that have no credentials to be doing what they are doing.  
 
Cover your butt by ensuring you are hiring true professionals.