How we work
What owners, consultants and general contractors can expect from us between the invitation to bid and closeout. For one contract that covers the design as well, see design-build.
From invitation to closeout
Seven steps. The first four cost the owner nothing and decide most of what follows.
What a bid from us includes
- A price by scope
- Broken down far enough to compare with other bids and to value changes later.
- Inclusions and exclusions
- Written out, so nothing is assumed by either side.
- Clarifications
- Any assumption we made where the documents were silent or in conflict.
- Addenda
- Each addendum acknowledged by number.
- Schedule
- Durations, crew sizes and the date we can start.
- Separate and alternate prices
- Where the documents ask for them, or where we see a saving worth showing.
During the work
Start-up
Contract, insurance and clearance certificates, schedule, safety plan and the list of submittals.
Supervision
A named supervisor on site whenever our crews or trades are working.
Weekly report
Work completed, work planned, crew sizes, deliveries, open questions and photographs.
Questions and changes
Requests for information are logged and tracked. Changes are priced before the work is done.
Inspection and testing
Hold points are booked ahead, and test results are sent on as they arrive.
Closeout
Deficiencies completed, as-built drawings, manuals and warranties handed over together.
Payment under the Construction Act
Ontario’s Construction Act sets the timing of payment on construction contracts. We invoice and pay to its terms.
- Invoices
- Monthly, unless the contract says otherwise.
- Payment
- Due within 28 days of a proper invoice.
- Subcontractors
- Paid within 7 days of our being paid.
- Holdback
- 10% retained on each payment, as the Act requires.
Since January 1, 2026, accrued holdback is released every year on longer projects, and an invoice is deemed proper unless the owner objects within 7 days. How the 2026 changes work.
Working with us
How do we add you to a bidders list?
Send the invitation to [email protected] or call (416) 659-8155.
Will you look at a site before pricing?
Yes. For demolition and renovation work a site visit is part of the estimate.
Can you give a budget before there are drawings?
Yes. A budget from a concept or a test fit is stated as a range, with the assumptions behind it.
Tell us about the project.
Design-build briefs, tender invitations, budget requests and site walk-throughs. Tell us the scope, the location and the timing.