Can I email my contractor instead of talking in person?

Yes, you absolutely can email your contractor instead of talking in person, and in many cases it's actually the smarter approach for Ottawa homeowners. Email creates a written record that protects both you and your contractor throughout the project.

Email communication is particularly valuable during the contractor selection process in Ottawa. When you're getting quotes from multiple contractors, email lets you ask the same questions to each one and compare their responses side-by-side. You can ask about their ESA licensing (verify at esasafe.com/contractor-locator), WSIB clearance status, insurance coverage, and availability - all while creating documentation of their answers.

For ongoing project communication, email works well for non-urgent matters like schedule updates, material selections, or permit status inquiries. If your contractor is waiting on a City of Ottawa building permit (which can take 10-25 business days depending on complexity), email updates keep everyone informed without constant phone calls.

However, some situations do call for direct conversation. Complex technical discussions about Ontario Building Code requirements, safety concerns, or significant project changes often need the back-and-forth of a phone call or in-person meeting. Emergency situations - like discovering asbestos during renovation or structural issues - require immediate verbal communication.

The key is establishing communication preferences upfront. During your initial contractor interviews, ask how they prefer to handle different types of communication. Many Ottawa contractors use a hybrid approach: email for documentation and scheduling, phone calls for technical discussions, and in-person meetings for project milestones or problem-solving.

What to Watch For: Be cautious of contractors who refuse to communicate in writing or seem uncomfortable with email documentation. Legitimate contractors understand that written communication protects everyone. If a contractor only wants to discuss pricing, change orders, or warranty issues verbally, that's a red flag.

For permit-related communication, the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) often handles inquiries by phone, but you can also check permit status online through ottawa.ca/building. Having email records of permit discussions with your contractor helps track timeline expectations and responsibilities.

Official Resources:

• City of Ottawa Building Permits: ottawa.ca/building


• ESA Contractor Verification: esasafe.com/contractor-locator


• Consumer Protection Ontario: ontario.ca/consumer

Remember, good contractors in Ottawa appreciate clients who communicate clearly and keep records. Email helps create the professional relationship that leads to successful projects.