By Sarah Caron, Director, Renovation Services, CHBA
In the dynamic world of home renovation, trust and quality are paramount. Renovators face the challenge of standing out in a crowded market while showcasing their worth to homeowners. Add in the current economic pressure, and the competition with cash operators can feel like a race to the bottom. This is where RenoMark steps in, offering a clear mark of distinction that elevates renovators’ credibility and professionalism.
The RenoMark program was first established in 2001 by BILD-GTA to connect homeowners with professional contractors who have agreed to abide by a renovation-specific Code of Conduct. The Renovators’ Mark of Excellence (the RenoMark symbol) makes it easy for homeowners to identify participating professional renovators who have agreed to provide a superior level of service.
Comprehensive national program
Recognizing the value of the program and its benefit to renovator members across the country, CHBA and BILD-GTA began a partnership in 2017 to grow RenoMark into a comprehensive, national program. In the intervening years, membership in RenoMark swelled to include more than 1,200 companies from Newfoundland to British Columbia. The refresh of the RenoMark website, renomark.ca, and the launch of a number of social media channels further supported the growing awareness of the program.
On Feb. 7, 2024, the CHBA Board of Directors approved a joint motion brought forward by the Canadian Renovators’ Council (CRC) and the Executive Officers’ Council (EOC) for BILD-GTA to transfer ownership of the RenoMark trademark and website to CHBA so that CHBA can facilitate the full administration of the RenoMark program to HBAs and members across the country.
As the transfer of the ownership of the RenoMark program from BILD-GTA to CHBA nears completion, CHBA is set to launch the much-anticipated RenoMark online verification system. This online tool will streamline the program’s administration through full integration with the national membership database, automated reminders, annual renewals and random audit capabilities.
The verification process is a crucial step in enhancing the credibility of the program with homeowners. It provides peace of mind knowing that every RenoMark member has been vetted and approved by a reputable, national industry association. Additionally, the written contract and minimum two-year warranty required by the program provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring that any issues arising from the renovation will be promptly addressed. It is through this rigorous Code of Conduct, commitment to quality, and emphasis on clear communication that establishes RenoMark as the gold standard in home renovation.
Professionalism, integrity and continuous improvement
However, the benefits of RenoMark are not limited to homeowners alone. For renovators and trade contractors, becoming a RenoMark member signifies a commitment to professionalism, integrity and continuous improvement. Aligning with the RenoMark brand provides additional access to valuable resources, training programs and networking opportunities within the industry. This not only helps members stay up to date on the latest trends and best practices but also enhances your company’s reputation and credibility in the eyes of potential clients.
For CHBA members, the online verification is a simple three-step process:
1. Sign the RenoMark Code of Conduct. RenoMark members must attest to all 10 points in the Code of Conduct.
2. Upload required documentation. Members must provide a copy of their contract, warranty, and liability insurance as stipulated in the Code of Conduct.
3. Sign the RenoMark Licensing Agreement. Members must agree to the terms and conditions to use the RenoMark trademark.
CHBA is working closely with local and provincial HBAs to roll-out the online verification system in a coordinated approach. All existing RenoMark members will receive a series of automated emails with clear instructions to complete the verification process before the deadline or risk removal from the program. All other renovators and trade contractors will receive promotional information about the program and a link to join RenoMark by completing the verification process.
Once the verification process is complete, members will receive access to a full suite of marketing materials to promote their designation as a RenoMark member. This includes RenoMark logos, social media posts, videos and images that are available for immediate use. RenoMark members are also encouraged to submit client testimonials and before and after project images to feature on the RenoMark website and social media channels.
The verification system is a pivotal step in enhancing the RenoMark program’s market offering and legitimacy with homeowners. This continued evolution of the RenoMark program is one more way that CHBA is delivering value to renovators across the country. Ensure that you stay up to date with all the latest news for renovators by subscribing to the Renovator Review in the members hub of the CHBA website.
The RenoMark verification system offers a myriad of benefits to renovators:
RenoMark members gain credibility in the eyes of potential clients by undergoing a rigorous screening process. This demonstrates their commitment to upholding industry standards and ethical business practices.
The verification serves as a stamp of approval from a trusted authority, alleviating homeowners’ concerns and instilling confidence and peace of mind in their choice of renovator.
In a competitive landscape, the verification serves as a powerful differentiator that sets RenoMark members apart from cash operators by signaling a commitment to professionalism, quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.
