FAQs Archive - Page 2 of 3

Q: Why did you start Carpenter Bee?

We were frustrated by two problems with how Canadians find contractors online. First, big "find-a-pro" platforms sell every homeowner inquiry to 3 or 4 contractors at once, turning a simple search into a flood of cold calls. Second, directories that claim to "verify" contractors create false expectations — no directory can supervise an actual job site or stand behind a warranty. We wanted to build the honest middle ground: a classified directory that doesn't pretend to be more than it is.

Q: Do you offer refunds?

We don't issue refunds once your listing is published — our hosting, processing and platform costs are incurred immediately. However, if there's a technical issue on our side (extended platform downtime, broken search, listing not displaying) we'll extend your listing duration to compensate. The 30-day Starter plan is the best low-risk way to test the platform.

Q: Do I need WSIB or insurance documents to list?

No — we do not require or verify documents. Carpenter Bee is a classified directory, not a verification service. You list yourself, and the information in your listing is your own representation. However , in Ontario, construction work is generally a mandatory WSIB industry, and most homeowners will ask for proof of WSIB clearance and liability insurance before hiring. Having those documents ready helps you close more jobs — but obtaining them is between you and the relevant Ontario authorities (WSIB, your insurance broker, ESA for electricians, etc.).

Q: What if I don't have a website yet — can I still list?

Yes, no problem. Your Carpenter Bee listing acts as your business page — homeowners see your services, photos, service areas, and can contact you directly through phone (all plans) or email and website link (Professional and Master Pro). Many of our Starter-tier contractors use their Carpenter Bee profile as their primary online presence while they're getting set up.

Q: Is there really no auto-renewal? I'm tired of getting charged surprise fees.

Correct. All three plans are one-time payments . When your 30, 45 or 90 days expire, your listing simply moves to archive and stops being visible. We send one email reminder before expiry, and that's it. You decide whether to renew — same plan, different plan, or not at all. We never auto-charge you.

Q: Should I list here if I'm already on HomeStars or Houzz?

Most contractors we work with list in addition to other platforms, not instead. Spending $29–199 once is a low-risk way to add another channel while your Carpenter Bee listing gains traction in Google search results. Different homeowners use different platforms — your visibility multiplies when you're on several.

Q: Carpenter Bee is new — will I actually get clients from this?

Honest answer: as a young Ontario directory, we have less traffic than HomeStars or Houzz today. But for $29 you get a 30-day test — less than what HomeStars charges some contractors for two days of "premium" features. Every dollar you pay us goes back into SEO, content, and local marketing to Ontario homeowners — not into sales teams trying to upsell you. Start with Starter, see what comes in over 30 days, and decide if it's worth scaling up.