Question 1

What is a reasonable deposit for a contractor?

Accepted Answer

A reasonable contractor deposit in Ottawa is typically 10-15% of the total project cost, with a maximum of $1,000 for smaller jobs under $10,000. Never pay more than 20% upfront, and be extremely cautious of contractors demanding large deposits or full payment before starting work.

Understanding Ontario's Legal Framework

Under Ontario's Construction Act, contractors can legally request up to 10% of the contract value as a deposit, though many established contractors work with less. For project

Question 2

How do I handle a contractor dispute?

Accepted Answer

In Ottawa, you have several escalation options for contractor disputes, starting with direct negotiation and potentially ending with legal action through Ontario's construction lien laws.

Start with Direct Communication

Document everything in writing first. Send your contractor a clear email outlining the specific issues, referencing your contract terms, and requesting a resolution timeline. Many disputes stem from miscommunication about scope, timelines, or quality expectations. Give them 7-

Question 3

What are the best fence contractors in Ottawa?

Accepted Answer

I can't recommend specific fence contractors by name, but I can show you exactly how to find and verify the best licensed fence contractors in Ottawa.

When hiring a fence contractor in Ottawa, you'll want to focus on proper licensing, insurance, and permit compliance rather than just going with the cheapest quote. Here's your step-by-step process:

Verify Licensing and Insurance

Start by checking that any contractor you're considering has valid WSIB coverage through wsib.ca/clearances - this

Question 4

Should I hire an interior designer for my renovation?

Accepted Answer

That's a great project question! For specific renovation advice like working with interior designers, check out resources focused on renovation planning and design. Here at OCN, we focus on helping you find and work with the right contractors for your project.

However, I can help you understand the contractor hiring implications when interior designers are involved in Ottawa renovations:

When Interior Designers Impact Your Contractor Search

If you do work with a designer, understand how this

Question 5

What is the difference between a subcontractor and an employee?

Accepted Answer

In Ottawa construction projects, the difference between subcontractors and employees affects your liability, costs, and legal obligations as a homeowner hiring work.

When you hire a general contractor in Ottawa, they may use both employees and subcontractors to complete your project. Understanding this distinction protects you from potential liability and helps you verify proper coverage.

Employees vs. Subcontractors: Key Differences

Employees work directly for the contractor under their con

Question 6

Should I hire a kitchen designer separate from my contractor?

Accepted Answer

In Ottawa, you can hire a kitchen designer separately from your contractor, but the key is ensuring they work well together and understanding how this affects permits, liability, and project coordination.

When you hire a designer separately, you're essentially splitting the design and build phases. This can work well if you want specialized design expertise or if your contractor doesn't offer design services. However, you'll need to ensure your designer understands Ontario Building Code require

Question 7

What trades need to be licensed in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

In Ontario, several key trades require specific licensing or certification, with different regulatory bodies overseeing different types of work.

Electricians - ESA (Electrical Safety Authority)
All electrical work in Ontario must be performed by Licensed Electrical Contractors (LEC) or under their supervision. You can verify any electrician's license at licensing.esasafe.com. The ESA requires permits for virtually all electrical work, from simple outlet additions to complete rewiring. Even if

Question 8

What does a general contractor actually do on a renovation project?

Accepted Answer

A general contractor in Ottawa serves as the project manager and coordinator for your renovation, handling everything from permits to final cleanup while ensuring all work meets Ontario Building Code requirements.

Primary Responsibilities

A general contractor takes full responsibility for your renovation project from start to finish. They coordinate all the moving pieces so you don't have to juggle multiple trades, permits, and inspections yourself. Think of them as the conductor of an orches

Question 9

Do I need separate trades or a general contractor for my renovation?

Accepted Answer

For most Ottawa renovations, a general contractor is typically your best choice - they coordinate all trades, handle permits, and take responsibility for the entire project under one contract.

When to Use a General Contractor

A licensed general contractor in Ottawa manages your entire renovation, hiring and coordinating plumbers, electricians, drywallers, and other trades. This approach works best for:

- Multi-room renovations (kitchens, bathrooms, basements)
- Projects requiring multiple pe

Question 10

What is the difference between a contractor and a tradesperson?

Accepted Answer

In Ottawa's construction industry, a contractor manages projects and hires tradespeople, while tradespeople are the skilled workers who perform specific trades like electrical, plumbing, or carpentry.

Contractors vs. Tradespeople: The Key Differences

A contractor is essentially a project manager who coordinates construction work. They hold the permits, manage timelines, hire subcontractors, and are responsible for the overall project. In Ottawa, contractors need WSIB coverage, liability insur

Question 11

What rights do I have if a contractor doesn't finish the job?

Accepted Answer

In Ottawa and Ontario, you have several strong legal protections when a contractor abandons or fails to complete your project, including rights under the Consumer Protection Act and Construction Act.

Your Immediate Rights in Ontario

Under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act, you have the right to cancel the contract and demand a refund if the contractor materially breaches the agreement by not completing the work. You're also protected by the Construction Act (formerly Construction Lien Act), w

Question 12

What is the Better Business Bureau process for contractor complaints?

Accepted Answer

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) provides a free complaint resolution process for Ottawa homeowners having issues with contractors, though it's voluntary for businesses and has limitations compared to official regulatory channels.

How BBB Complaints Work in Ottawa

The BBB of Eastern and Central Ontario (serving Ottawa) operates as a mediator between consumers and businesses. When you file a complaint against a contractor, the BBB forwards it to the business and requests a response within 14 d

Question 13

What is arbitration for contractor disputes?

Accepted Answer

Arbitration is a private dispute resolution process where a neutral third party makes a binding decision on your contractor dispute, often faster and less expensive than going to court in Ottawa.

In Ontario, arbitration for construction disputes typically involves hiring a qualified arbitrator (often a lawyer or construction expert) who reviews evidence from both you and your contractor, then issues a legally binding decision that both parties must follow.

How Arbitration Works in Ottawa Cons

Question 14

What are my options if a contractor goes bankrupt mid-project?

Accepted Answer

If your contractor goes bankrupt mid-project in Ottawa, you have several protection options, but quick action is essential to protect your interests and minimize losses.

When a contractor declares bankruptcy in Ontario, all work typically stops immediately, and you become an unsecured creditor in the bankruptcy proceedings. However, you're not completely without recourse.

Immediate Steps to Take

First, document everything immediately. Take photos of all completed and incomplete work, gather

Question 15

Can I leave a negative review for a contractor without getting sued?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can generally leave honest negative reviews for contractors in Ontario without getting sued, as long as you stick to factual experiences and avoid defamatory statements.

In Canada, you have the right to share your genuine experience with a contractor's services. However, there's a difference between protected opinion and potentially defamatory statements that could get you in legal trouble.

What You CAN Safely Include in Ottawa Contractor Reviews

You can describe factual experiences

Question 16

What evidence do I need for a contractor lawsuit?

Accepted Answer

If you're pursuing legal action against a contractor in Ottawa, you'll need comprehensive documentation to prove your case - contracts, communications, photos, payments, and evidence of damages or code violations.

Essential Documentation for Your Case

Written Contracts and Agreements
Start with your original contract, any change orders, and written estimates. Even informal agreements via email or text messages count as evidence. If you only had a verbal agreement, gather any written communica

Question 17

What government agencies can help with contractor complaints in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

In Ontario, several government agencies can help with contractor complaints, with the specific agency depending on the type of issue and work involved.

Consumer Protection Ontario
The Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery handles general contractor complaints through Consumer Protection Ontario. They enforce the Consumer Protection Act and can investigate issues like:
- Misleading advertising or estimates
- Contract violations
- Door-to-door sales violations
- Failure to provide req

Question 18

What is mediation and can it help resolve my contractor dispute?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mediation can be an excellent way to resolve contractor disputes in Ottawa - it's faster, cheaper, and less adversarial than going to court, and many construction disputes are successfully resolved through this process.

Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party (the mediator) helps you and your contractor communicate and negotiate toward a mutually acceptable solution. Unlike a judge, the mediator doesn't make decisions for you - they facilitate discussion to help both p

Question 19

What is small claims court, and can I use it for contractor disputes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use Small Claims Court in Ontario for contractor disputes involving amounts up to $35,000, and it's often the most practical option for Ottawa homeowners dealing with contractor problems.

Small Claims Court is Ontario's simplified court system designed for everyday disputes without needing a lawyer. For contractor issues in Ottawa, it's particularly useful because most residential renovation disputes fall well within the $35,000 limit, and the process is designed to be accessible t

Question 20

Can I sue my contractor for poor workmanship in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can sue your contractor for poor workmanship in Ontario, but there are several steps you should take first and specific legal protections that apply to Ottawa-area homeowners.

In Ontario, homeowners have strong legal protections under the Consumer Protection Act and common law. If your contractor has delivered substandard work that doesn't meet industry standards or your written contract specifications, you have grounds for legal action. However, litigation should typically be your las

Question 21

What should I do if I have a dispute with my contractor?

Accepted Answer

If you have a dispute with your contractor in Ottawa, start by documenting everything and attempting direct communication before escalating to formal complaint processes through Ontario's consumer protection agencies.

Document Everything First

Before taking any action, gather all your documentation - the original contract, change orders, payment receipts, photos of the work, text messages, and emails. In Ontario, written records are crucial for any dispute resolution process. Take detailed ph

Question 22

What are the signs of a bait and switch contractor?

Accepted Answer

Bait and switch contractors in Ottawa typically lure homeowners with unrealistically low quotes, then dramatically increase costs once work begins - often doubling or tripling the original estimate through "unexpected" discoveries or required upgrades.

Red Flags During the Initial Quote Phase

Watch for contractors who provide estimates significantly below others (30%+ lower than comparable quotes). Legitimate Ottawa contractors know current material and labor costs - a basement finishing quot

Question 23

Should I trust contractors who show up after a storm?

Accepted Answer

Be extremely cautious with storm-chasing contractors who show up unsolicited after severe weather in Ottawa - most legitimate local contractors are too busy with existing clients to go door-to-door.

Storm-chasing scams are unfortunately common in Ottawa after events like the 2018 tornadoes, ice storms, or severe wind damage. These contractors typically arrive from out-of-province within days of a storm, targeting vulnerable homeowners with damaged roofs, siding, or trees.

Major Red Flags with

Question 24

Should I be suspicious of contractors offering huge discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, be very suspicious of contractors offering huge discounts in Ottawa - legitimate contractors rarely need to slash prices dramatically, and this is one of the biggest red flags in the industry.

Large discounts often signal several serious problems. The contractor may be desperate for cash flow, possibly because they've mismanaged other projects or are facing financial difficulties. They might be planning to cut corners on materials, skip proper permits, or use unqualified workers to make up

Question 25

What are the warning signs of door-to-door contractor scams?

Accepted Answer

Door-to-door contractor scams are unfortunately common in Ottawa neighborhoods, especially after storms or in areas with older homes. Here are the key warning signs every Ottawa homeowner should recognize:

The biggest red flag is unsolicited visits claiming they "just finished work in your neighborhood" or noticed problems with your roof, driveway, or siding while driving by. Legitimate contractors in Ottawa are typically booked weeks or months in advance and don't need to canvas neighborhoods

Question 26

What recourse do I have if a contractor takes my deposit and disappears?

Accepted Answer

If a contractor takes your deposit and disappears in Ottawa, you have several legal recourses available, but time is critical - act immediately to protect your rights and potentially recover your money.

The first step is to contact Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 to file a fraud report. While police may not investigate smaller amounts immediately, having an official report creates a paper trail that's essential for other recovery efforts. If the amount is substantial (typically over $5,000), they

Question 27

What should I do if a contractor threatens me?

Accepted Answer

If a contractor threatens you in Ottawa, immediately document the threat, contact Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 (or 911 if immediate danger), and report them to Consumer Protection Ontario at 1-800-889-9768.

Contractor threats are serious and unfortunately not uncommon when disputes arise over payments, work quality, or contract terms. Here's exactly what you need to do to protect yourself:

Immediate Safety Steps

Document everything immediately - write down exactly what was said, when, where,

Question 28

What are the signs of a fly-by-night contractor?

Accepted Answer

Red flags of fly-by-night contractors in Ottawa include door-to-door solicitation, cash-only payments, no fixed business address, and pressure to sign immediately - these scammers often target Ottawa neighborhoods after storms or during peak renovation season.

Door-to-Door Red Flags

Legitimate contractors in Ottawa don't typically knock on doors offering services. Be especially wary after windstorms, hailstorms, or ice storms when scammers canvas neighborhoods like Kanata, Orleans, and Barrha

Question 29

Should I be worried if a contractor has no online presence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you should be concerned about a contractor with zero online presence in 2024-2025, especially in Ottawa's competitive construction market. While it's not automatically disqualifying, it raises several red flags that require extra verification steps.

Why Online Presence Matters in Ottawa

Legitimate contractors in Ottawa typically have some digital footprint because:
- Most business comes through referrals and online searches
- ESA and TSSA licensing can be verified online
- WSIB clearance

Question 30

What should I do if a contractor pressures me to sign immediately?

Accepted Answer

Never sign a contract immediately when pressured by a contractor in Ottawa - this is a major red flag that often indicates a scam or predatory business practice.

Legitimate contractors understand that hiring decisions require careful consideration and will always give you time to review contracts, get multiple quotes, and verify their credentials. Pressure tactics are one of the most common warning signs of contractor fraud that Ottawa homeowners should watch for.

Why Contractors Use Pressure

Question 31

Is it a red flag if a contractor only wants cash payment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a contractor demanding cash-only payment is a major red flag in Ottawa and should be avoided. This is one of the most common warning signs of unlicensed contractors, tax evasion, or outright scams.

Why Cash-Only is Problematic

Legitimate contractors in Ottawa accept multiple payment methods because they run proper businesses with business bank accounts, insurance, and proper licensing. When a contractor insists on cash only, they're often trying to avoid:

- Paying HST to the Canada Reve

Question 32

What are the warning signs of a scam contractor in Ottawa?

Accepted Answer

Red flag alert: Scam contractors are unfortunately common in Ottawa, especially after storms or during busy construction seasons. Here are the key warning signs every Ottawa homeowner needs to know.

The biggest red flag is door-to-door solicitation, especially after weather events. Legitimate Ottawa contractors don't need to knock on doors - they're busy with referral work. Be immediately suspicious of anyone who shows up unannounced claiming they "noticed your roof needs work" or have "leftove

Question 33

What happens if work is done by an uninsured worker?

Accepted Answer

If work is done by an uninsured worker in Ottawa, you as the homeowner become personally liable for any injuries that occur on your property, potentially facing thousands in medical costs, legal fees, and workers' compensation claims.

This is one of the most serious risks Ottawa homeowners face when hiring contractors. Under Ontario law, if a worker is injured on your property and the contractor doesn't have proper WSIB coverage, the injured worker can file a claim directly against you as the p

Question 34

Can I be held responsible if a contractor's subcontractor is injured?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as an Ottawa homeowner, you can potentially be held liable if a contractor's subcontractor is injured on your property, but your level of responsibility depends on several key factors related to WSIB coverage and insurance.

The most critical protection is ensuring your contractor has valid WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage. In Ontario, contractors are required to have WSIB coverage for their employees and subcontractors. When a contractor has proper WSIB coverage, injure

Question 35

What is a WSIB clearance certificate and how do I verify it?

Accepted Answer

A WSIB clearance certificate is proof that an Ontario contractor has no outstanding workplace safety insurance debts and is in good standing with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board - it's essential verification before hiring any contractor in Ottawa.

In Ontario, all contractors with employees must carry WSIB coverage. This protects both their workers and you as the homeowner. If a contractor doesn't have valid WSIB coverage and a worker gets injured on your property, you could be held lia

Question 36

Is my contractor's vehicle insurance sufficient for deliveries?

Accepted Answer

Your contractor's standard vehicle insurance may not be sufficient for construction deliveries in Ottawa - you need to verify they have proper commercial coverage for materials transport.

Most contractors carry basic commercial auto insurance, but construction deliveries involve unique risks that require specific coverage. Here's what you need to verify with your Ottawa contractor:

Required Insurance Coverage in Ontario

Your contractor should have commercial vehicle insurance that specifical

Question 37

What happens if a contractor damages my neighbor's property?

Accepted Answer

If a contractor damages your neighbor's property during work on your home, the contractor's liability insurance should cover the damage - but you need to verify they have proper coverage before work begins.

In Ottawa, this is exactly why checking insurance is so critical when hiring contractors. Here's how liability coverage works and what you need to know:

Contractor's Liability Insurance Requirements

All legitimate contractors in Ontario should carry general liability insurance (typically

Question 38

What does errors and omissions insurance cover for contractors?

Accepted Answer

Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance for contractors in Ottawa covers professional mistakes, oversights, and failures to deliver services as promised - protecting both the contractor and homeowner when work doesn't meet specifications or causes financial losses.

E&O insurance is different from general liability insurance. While general liability covers physical damage and bodily injury, E&O specifically protects against professional negligence and mistakes in the contractor's work or advice.

Question 39

What is an independent operator, and do they need WSIB?

Accepted Answer

In Ontario, an independent operator is a sole proprietor who works alone without employees - and yes, they still need WSIB coverage in most construction scenarios, especially when working on projects in Ottawa.

What Qualifies as an Independent Operator

An independent operator in Ontario construction is typically:
- A sole proprietor working without employees
- Someone who owns and operates their own tools and equipment
- A contractor who works independently rather than as an employee
- Often

Question 40

Do subcontractors need their own WSIB coverage in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Yes, subcontractors in Ontario are required to have their own WSIB coverage when working on construction projects, and as a homeowner hiring contractors in Ottawa, you need to verify this to protect yourself from liability.

In Ontario, the Construction Regulation under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act makes WSIB coverage mandatory for most construction work. This means that when your main contractor hires subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, drywallers, etc.), each of those subcontract

Question 41

What happens if my contractor does not have liability insurance?

Accepted Answer

If your contractor doesn't have liability insurance in Ottawa, you become personally liable for any accidents, injuries, or property damage that occurs during your project - a risk that could cost you tens of thousands of dollars or more.

Here's exactly what you're exposed to without contractor liability insurance:

Your Financial Risk
If a worker gets injured on your property, you could face lawsuits for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering claims. Property damage to your home

Question 42

How much liability insurance should my contractor carry?

Accepted Answer

In Ottawa, your contractor should carry a minimum of $2 million in general liability insurance, though many reputable contractors carry $5 million or more for larger projects.

The standard expectation across Ontario is $2 million in general liability coverage, which protects against property damage, bodily injury, and other accidents that could occur during your project. However, for significant renovations like kitchen remodels, additions, or structural work, you'll want to see coverage of $5

Question 43

What is the difference between WSIB and liability insurance for contractors?

Accepted Answer

WSIB and liability insurance serve completely different purposes for Ottawa contractors - WSIB protects workers while liability insurance protects you as the homeowner from property damage and accidents.

WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board)

WSIB is Ontario's mandatory workplace injury insurance that covers medical costs and lost wages if a worker gets hurt on your job site. In Ottawa, any contractor with employees must have WSIB coverage - it's the law, not optional.

Here's what WSIB

Question 44

Can I be liable if a contractor's worker gets hurt on my property?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as an Ottawa homeowner, you can potentially be held liable if a contractor's worker gets hurt on your property, but proper verification and precautions can protect you significantly.

The key protection in Ontario is ensuring your contractor has valid WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage. When a contractor has WSIB, their workers are covered for workplace injuries, and this generally shields you from liability. However, if the contractor doesn't have WSIB or if there are gap

Question 45

Do all contractors in Ontario need WSIB coverage?

Accepted Answer

Not all contractors in Ontario are required to have WSIB coverage, but the rules depend on their business structure and the type of work they're doing.

In Ontario, WSIB coverage requirements vary based on whether the contractor is a sole proprietor, partnership, or incorporated business. Sole proprietors and partners in a partnership are generally not required to register for WSIB coverage unless they have employees. However, incorporated businesses (corporations) must register for WSIB coverag

Question 46

What happens if a contractor gets injured on my property without WSIB?

Accepted Answer

If a contractor gets injured on your Ottawa property without WSIB coverage, you could be personally liable for their medical costs, lost wages, and potentially face significant legal and financial consequences.

This is one of the most serious risks Ottawa homeowners face when hiring contractors, and it's why verifying WSIB coverage should be your first step before any work begins.

Your Legal Exposure Without WSIB

Under Ontario law, if an uninsured contractor or their worker gets injured on y

Question 47

What is WSIB, and why does it matter when hiring a contractor?

Accepted Answer

WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) is Ontario's workplace insurance system that protects both workers and homeowners when construction work is performed on your property. As an Ottawa homeowner, hiring a contractor without valid WSIB coverage could leave you financially liable if a worker gets injured on your project.

What WSIB Actually Does

WSIB provides workplace injury insurance for Ontario workers and employers. When a contractor has WSIB coverage, it means that if one of their w

Question 48

Can a contractor charge for work not in the original contract?

Accepted Answer

In Ottawa and Ontario, contractors cannot charge for work not in the original contract without your written approval - this is a major red flag and potential violation of consumer protection laws.

Under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act, any changes to the original contract scope must be documented in writing with clear pricing before the work begins. The contractor must provide you with a written change order that specifies exactly what additional work will be done and how much it will cost.

Question 49

What happens if a contractor abandons my project midway?

Accepted Answer

If a contractor abandons your project in Ottawa, you have several legal protections under Ontario law, but acting quickly is crucial to protect your rights and minimize losses.

When a contractor abandons a project, you're dealing with breach of contract, and Ontario's Consumer Protection Act provides specific remedies for homeowners. The first step is documenting everything - take photos of the work site, gather all contracts, receipts, and communications, and create a timeline of events leadin

Question 50

What is the cooling off period for contractor contracts in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

In Ontario, there is NO automatic cooling-off period for contractor contracts signed in your home or at the contractor's location. This is a critical protection gap that many Ottawa homeowners don't realize exists.

When You DO Have Cooling-Off Rights

You only get a 10-day cooling-off period under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act if:
- The contract was signed at a location OTHER than your home or the contractor's business premises
- Examples: home shows, door-to-door sales that move to a neut

Finding & Working with Contractors

What is a reasonable deposit for a contractor?

How do I handle a contractor dispute?

What are the best fence contractors in Ottawa?

Should I hire an interior designer for my renovation?

What is the difference between a subcontractor and an employee?

Should I hire a kitchen designer separate from my contractor?

What trades need to be licensed in Ontario?

What does a general contractor actually do on a renovation project?

Do I need separate trades or a general contractor for my renovation?

What is the difference between a contractor and a tradesperson?

What rights do I have if a contractor doesn't finish the job?

What is the Better Business Bureau process for contractor complaints?

What is arbitration for contractor disputes?

What are my options if a contractor goes bankrupt mid-project?

Can I leave a negative review for a contractor without getting sued?

What evidence do I need for a contractor lawsuit?

What government agencies can help with contractor complaints in Ontario?

What is mediation and can it help resolve my contractor dispute?

What is small claims court, and can I use it for contractor disputes?

Can I sue my contractor for poor workmanship in Ontario?

What should I do if I have a dispute with my contractor?

What are the signs of a bait and switch contractor?

Should I trust contractors who show up after a storm?

Should I be suspicious of contractors offering huge discounts?

What are the warning signs of door-to-door contractor scams?

What recourse do I have if a contractor takes my deposit and disappears?

What should I do if a contractor threatens me?

What are the signs of a fly-by-night contractor?

Should I be worried if a contractor has no online presence?

What should I do if a contractor pressures me to sign immediately?

Is it a red flag if a contractor only wants cash payment?

What are the warning signs of a scam contractor in Ottawa?

What happens if work is done by an uninsured worker?

Can I be held responsible if a contractor's subcontractor is injured?

What is a WSIB clearance certificate and how do I verify it?

Is my contractor's vehicle insurance sufficient for deliveries?

What happens if a contractor damages my neighbor's property?

What does errors and omissions insurance cover for contractors?

What is an independent operator, and do they need WSIB?

Do subcontractors need their own WSIB coverage in Ontario?

What happens if my contractor does not have liability insurance?

How much liability insurance should my contractor carry?

What is the difference between WSIB and liability insurance for contractors?

Can I be liable if a contractor's worker gets hurt on my property?

Do all contractors in Ontario need WSIB coverage?

What happens if a contractor gets injured on my property without WSIB?

What is WSIB, and why does it matter when hiring a contractor?

Can a contractor charge for work not in the original contract?

What happens if a contractor abandons my project midway?

What is the cooling off period for contractor contracts in Ontario?

What payment methods are safest for paying contractors?

Can I withhold payment if I'm not happy with the contractor's work?

Is it normal for a contractor to ask for a 50% deposit upfront?

What should be in a contract with my renovation contractor in Ottawa?

Should I hire a contractor who is booked months in advance?

Should I hire a contractor based on their showroom or portfolio?

What makes a contractor good at communication during a project?

Should I hire different contractors for each trade or one general contractor?

What is the best time of year to hire a contractor in Ottawa?

What should I do if multiple contractors give very different quotes?

Should I hire a contractor who works alone or one with a full crew?

Should I hire the cheapest contractor or pay more for quality work?

Is it better to hire a large renovation company or a small local contractor?

Can my contractor help me apply for renovation rebates?

What paperwork should my contractor give me at the end?

Can I email my contractor instead of talking in person?

What communication should I have in writing with my contractor?

What happens if my contractor misses the completion deadline?

Should I visit a contractor's previous job sites?

What questions should I ask a contractor's references?

Should I ask my contractor for a warranty on their work?

Does the HCRA regulate renovation contractors?

Why are contractor quotes so different from each other?

How many quotes should I get before hiring a contractor?

How reliable are Google reviews for contractors?

Should I use online contractor matching services?

What is the best way to find a contractor for my renovation?

Do roofers need to be licensed in Ontario?

What is the difference between G1, G2, and G3 gas technician licenses?