Renovating in Candiac: What You Can DIY (RONA+ Supplies) and When to Call a Contractor

A store like RONA+ in Candiac is a good starting point for paint, minor repairs, or small finishing projects. But certain work — electrical beyond a simple outlet swap, plumbing that touches the main lines, or anything involving gas — legally requires an RBQ-licensed contractor in Quebec, no matter where you buy the materials.

Where to shop in Candiac for materials

Candiac has several hardware and renovation stores, including RONA+, one of RONA's neighborhood-format banners. For exact hours, address, or product availability, your best bet is RONA's own site or calling the store directly — those details change, and we'd rather send you to the source than risk giving you outdated information.

This guide focuses on what HomeGoNow can actually help you decide: should you do the work yourself, or call a professional?

What you can generally DIY

• Interior and exterior painting, wood staining.
• Replacing an existing light fixture (without moving wiring).
• Installing shelving, trim, or cabinet hardware.
• Minor deck or fence repairs (individual boards, for example).
• Caulking, basic insulation, weatherstripping replacement.
• Replacing a showerhead, faucet, or toilet seat.

What legally needs a licensed contractor (RBQ)

• Any electrical circuit addition, panel work, or new outlet.
• Plumbing that touches main supply lines, drainage, or requires a permit.
• Any work involving natural gas or propane.
• Structural work: load-bearing walls, foundation, roofing beyond minor repairs.
• Any project requiring a municipal permit (see below).

In Quebec, the Régie du bâtiment (RBQ) requires a license for most construction and renovation work beyond basic maintenance — a store can sell you the materials, but that doesn't make it legal to do work yourself that normally requires a license.

Do I need a permit?

It depends on the project and the municipality — Candiac, like most Quebec cities, requires a permit for an addition, finishing a basement with a bedroom, a new outdoor structure (a shed past a certain size, a pool), or any change to the framing. A simple paint job or faucet swap generally doesn't. Check with Candiac's urban planning department before starting a larger project.

How much does hiring a pro cost vs. DIY

Materials alone from a retailer like RONA+ are almost always cheaper than hiring someone — but that number doesn't account for your time, costly mistakes to fix, or a warranty on the work. For a bigger project like a kitchen renovation or an addition, getting multiple quotes is still the best way to compare.

When to call a contractor

• If the work touches electrical, main plumbing, gas, or structure.
• If a municipal permit is required.
• If you're not sure of the real scope once the walls are opened up.
• If the potential mistake (water damage, electrical fire) would cost more than calling a professional.

Related Questions

• How Many Quotes Should I Really Get Before Choosing a Contractor?
• Do I Need a Permit to Finish My Basement?
• My Contractor Disappeared In the Middle of the Job — What Do I Do?
• Why Did My Renovation Quote Nearly Double Once the Work Started?