Building a brand new house is such an exciting project! Earlier this month we covered the planning required, as well as the licenses and permits to obtain before construction can begin. Now, with your plans, licenses and permits in hand, comes the time to (finally!) build your residence. You must ensure that your subcontractors also have the required license from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ).

Build your own new house

In order to save money, it might be tempting to go to the job site yourself to do some of the work, however, be aware that you cannot work on the building site if the project is managed by a general contractor.

Can I use volunteer workers?

Another not-so-brilliant-idea-to-save-money to forget: if you are an owner-builder, your family and friends cannot come and help you without having a competency certificate, except for some specific works. Check about this beforehand if you are planning to hire volunteers to make your budget work.

Can I hire employees?

If you hire employees, you automatically become an employer and must therefore comply to applicable standards in terms of salary and financial benefits and safety on the site (CNESST, Régie des rentes du Québec, Revenu Québec and Revenue Canada, Labour Standards Commission, etc.). Your workers must also have the required competency certificates. Contact the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ) to verify their competency certificates.

Also note that it is mandatory for some work to be carried out by specialists only, such as electricity and the installation of gas appliances. It may also be the case for digging, insulation and plumbing, forms for the foundation walls and framing. It is important to check beforehand.

Be careful, you may be subject to fines and judicial remedies if you do not do things legally. Managing a construction site is more complex than it may seem. Do not hesitate to contact us to ensure the legality of your steps.