Hiring the right steel contractor in Vancouver can make or break your construction project — whether you’re building a custom home, upgrading a commercial space, or adding architectural elements like staircases and railings. Steel fabrication is a long-term investment, and poor-quality work can lead to compliance issues, safety risks, and expensive rework.
In this guide, we break down the top 7 questions you should ask any steel fabrication company in Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, or elsewhere in BC. These questions will help you evaluate the contractor’s experience, capabilities, and professionalism before signing any contract.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured to Work in British Columbia?
Start by verifying that the contractor holds valid BC business licenses and carries both liability and worker’s compensation insurance. This ensures that you’re protected in case of site accidents, damage, or legal issues. In Vancouver and the North Shore, licensing also confirms that the company follows municipal and provincial construction regulations.
2. What Type of Projects Have You Completed?
A reputable steel contractor should be able to show a portfolio of previous projects—especially ones similar in size and complexity to yours. At Avangard Steel, we’ve worked on residential custom stairs, commercial industrial platforms, handrails, fences, and large-scale structural frames. Seeing real-world examples gives you confidence in the contractor’s craftsmanship and capabilities.
3. Do You Offer Design Support or Just Fabrication?
Some clients bring full architectural plans, while others need help transforming an idea into a workable steel solution. Find out if the contractor offers in-house CAD design, 3D modeling, or shop drawings to support your project. Design-build contractors like Avangard Steel are ideal when you need technical and visual collaboration from the start.
4. What Steel Grades and Finishes Do You Use?
Not all steel is created equal. The contractor should explain the materials they use (e.g., mild steel, stainless, galvanized), their origins, and available finishes like powder coating, painting, or rust protection. This matters especially for outdoor staircases, railings, and fences in Vancouver’s wet climate.
5. How Do You Ensure Compliance with the BC Building Code?
Ask whether the company has experience with your municipality’s permitting process and the BC Building Code. For example, custom steel staircases must meet specific rise/run dimensions, handrail height, and load-bearing requirements. Contractors unfamiliar with local codes could cause project delays or safety issues.
6. What Is Your Estimated Project Timeline?
A professional steel contractor should provide a detailed timeline from design to installation. Ask about lead times for ordering materials, shop turnaround, and installation windows. Look for companies that provide weekly progress updates and accommodate construction schedules.
7. Do You Handle Delivery and On-Site Installation?
Some fabricators only deliver the final product. Others, like Avangard Steel, offer complete on-site installation, ensuring everything fits, functions, and passes inspection. If your project involves other trades (framers, masons, electricians), make sure the steel contractor is experienced in multi-trade site coordination.
Bonus Question: Can You Provide Client References?
Ask for testimonials or contact info from past clients in your area—ideally in Vancouver, North Vancouver, or West Vancouver. Contractors confident in their work are happy to share referrals. You can also check Google Reviews or Houzz listings to validate their reputation.
Why Builders Across Vancouver Choose Avangard Steel
At Avangard Steel, we’re more than just fabricators — we’re problem-solvers. From the initial site visit to final install, our team works closely with architects, general contractors, and homeowners. We’ve earned the trust of clients across Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, North Shore, and greater BC with consistent quality, responsive communication, and precision steelwork that stands the test of time.
Where We Work
- Vancouver
- North Vancouver
- West Vancouver
- Burnaby & Coquitlam
- Surrey, Richmond, Langley
- North Shore & Greater BC
Conclusion: The Right Questions Lead to the Right Contractor
Choosing a steel contractor isn’t just about price — it’s about reliability, technical skill, and accountability. By asking these seven questions before hiring, you’ll find a partner who delivers results, not headaches. If you’re looking for a steel contractor you can trust, Avangard Steel is here to help.
Ready to get started? Call us today at 778-865-1374 or request a free quote. Let’s build something strong together.
