What happens when a contractor oversells and under delivers? Mike Holmes, professional contractor and TV host, reveals the top contractor scams he comes across:
About Mike Holmes
Mike Holmes, a well-known contractor and television personality, has built an impressive career by calling out bad contractors and advocating for homeowners. His journey began in the construction industry, where he quickly became disillusioned by the poor workmanship and shoddy practices that often plagued home renovation projects. Recognizing a gap in the market, he became passionate about promoting high-quality, ethical standards within the industry.
Holmes gained national recognition through his popular TV series, Holmes on Homes, where he demonstrated his expertise by rescuing homeowners from botched renovations and highlighting the critical mistakes made by unscrupulous contractors. His straightforward approach and commitment to fixing problems right the first time earned him a loyal following.
Beyond television, Mike Holmes has become an influential figure in the construction world, offering advice and support to homeowners to help them avoid costly mistakes. His "Make It Right" philosophy emphasizes the importance of proper techniques, safety standards, and transparency in the contracting process.
By holding contractors accountable and educating the public, Mike Holmes has not only built a successful career but has also raised the bar for the home renovation industry, ensuring that homeowners are better equipped to make informed decisions.
Mike Holmes began learning construction from his father starting when he was six years old. Mike Holmes father was a jack of all trades, and Mike used to follow him around and learned a lot by building things together.By the time he was 19, Holmes had started his first contracting company with a crew of 13 employees.
Across Canada, Mike Holmes has become the go-to name for homeowners who want more than quick fixes—they want craftsmanship that lasts. From coast to coast, Canadians recognize his dedication to quality, safety, and honesty in every aspect of construction. Whether it’s a new build or a renovation, Holmes’ trusted expertise continues to raise the bar for how homes should be built and maintained.
In the crowded world of home improvement, Mike Holmes stands apart for one simple reason—he puts homeowners first. His philosophy, summed up in three words, Make It Right, isn’t just a slogan. It’s a promise of transparency, durability, and pride in workmanship.
Through his shows, brand, and his Make It Right platform, Mike Holmes helps Canadians understand what real quality looks like behind the walls. He breaks down complex building concepts into practical advice that anyone can use. Whether you’re researching modular homes, debating a renovation, or planning an energy-efficient upgrade, his insights help you make informed, confident decisions.
His message is consistent: every home deserves to be built and renovated with integrity. And every homeowner deserves to know what’s really happening during the process. That commitment has made Mike Holmes not just a name, but a symbol of trust in Canadian home improvement.
In major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, Holmes’ influence can be seen in the way homeowners and builders approach quality control and sustainability.
Toronto’s mix of historic homes and modern high-rises presents constant renovation challenges. Holmes’ focus on proper waterproofing, ventilation, and electrical safety gives Toronto homeowners peace of mind that their investment is protected for decades.
Over in Vancouver, where eco-friendly construction is booming, Mike Holmes has long championed modular housing and energy-efficient design. His push for greener building practices fits perfectly with the city’s environmental vision—creating smarter, sustainable homes without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics.
In Calgary, his approach resonates with homeowners who value durability and weather resilience. With harsh winters and dry summers, Holmes’ insistence on quality materials and strong foundations makes a tangible difference in how homes perform year-round.
Everywhere he goes, Mike Holmes empowers Canadians to demand better—to expect safe wiring, solid framing, and ethical contractors who take pride in their work.
Few professionals have done more to change how Canadians think about homebuilding than Mike Holmes. His TV shows and public appearances aren’t just entertainment; they’re education in disguise. He’s taught millions that a beautiful home starts with invisible excellence—the kind you can’t always see but can always feel.
Through his advocacy and training programs, Holmes also champions the skilled trades. He’s helping close the gap between demand and supply by encouraging more young Canadians to join the construction industry. In doing so, he’s ensuring that “making it right” becomes a standard, not a rarity.
For homeowners, his advice serves as both inspiration and a reality check: cutting corners never pays off, but building it right always does.
Whether you’re renovating in Montreal, upgrading a property in Edmonton, or planning a new build in Ottawa, the name Mike Holmes carries the same message—quality first, shortcuts never.
His dedication to safer, stronger homes has reshaped the way Canadians approach every stage of construction, from foundation to finish. With Holmes’ guidance, you don’t just end up with a better house—you gain confidence in every nail, beam, and brick.
So when you’re ready to start your next project, think like Mike Holmes. Choose professionals who care. Invest in materials that last. And most importantly, make it right—from the ground up.