Hiring Contractors
How to find, vet, and choose the right contractor in Ottawa
Can I be held responsible if a contractor's subcontractor is injured?
Yes, as an Ottawa homeowner, you can potentially be held responsible for subcontractor injuries on your property, but there are specific protections a...
Should I be worried if a contractor asks for full payment upfront?
Yes, you should be very concerned if an Ottawa contractor asks for full payment upfront - this is one of the biggest red flags in the construction ind...
What should I do if a contractor pressures me to sign immediately?
Never sign a contract under pressure - legitimate contractors in Ottawa understand you need time to review and won't rush you into immediate decisions...
Can a contractor charge for work not in the original contract?
In Ontario, contractors cannot charge for work not in the original contract without your written approval - but there are important protections you ne...
Can I sue my contractor for poor work in Ontario?
Yes, you can sue your contractor for poor work in Ontario, but there are several steps you should take first that may resolve the issue faster and les...
What happens if a subcontractor puts a lien on my property?
If a subcontractor puts a lien on your Ottawa property, you could lose your home if the debt isn't resolved - but Ontario's Construction Act provides...
How much liability insurance should my contractor carry?
In Ottawa, your contractor should carry a minimum of $2 million in general liability insurance, though many reputable contractors carry $5 million or...
Should I be suspicious of contractors offering huge discounts?
Yes, you should be very suspicious of contractors in Ottawa offering huge discounts - legitimate contractors rarely need to slash prices dramatically...
Is there a contractor licensing board I can complain to in Ontario?
In Ontario, there is no single contractor licensing board, but you have several official complaint options depending on your specific issue and the ty...
What happens if a contractor damages my neighbor's property?
If a contractor damages your neighbor's property while working on your home in Ottawa, the contractor's liability insurance should cover the damage -...
What happens if a contractor abandons my project midway?
If a contractor abandons your project in Ottawa, you have several legal protections and immediate steps to take under Ontario's Consumer Protection Ac...
Can my contractor help me apply for renovation rebates?
Yes, many Ottawa contractors can help you apply for renovation rebates, but it's important to understand what they can and cannot do, and which rebate...
What is the best time of year to hire a contractor in Ottawa?
The best time to hire a contractor in Ottawa is during the "shoulder seasons" - late fall through early spring (November to March) - when you'll find...
Do contractors in Ottawa need to be licensed?
In Ottawa, there's no general contractor license required by the city, but specific trades DO need provincial licensing, and all contractors must meet...
Should I pay my contractor before the work is inspected?
No, you should never pay a contractor in full before work is inspected and approved in Ottawa. Ontario's Construction Lien Act specifically protects h...
What payment methods are safest for paying contractors?
In Ottawa, the safest payment methods for contractors are bank drafts or certified cheques for large amounts, and credit cards for smaller payments -...
Should I hire a contractor who is booked months in advance?
In Ottawa's competitive construction market, contractors booked 2-4 months out are often the most reputable - but verify their credentials and get eve...
What happens if an uninsured contractor gets injured on my property?
If an uninsured contractor gets injured on your Ottawa property, you could face significant personal liability for their medical costs, lost wages, an...
Does the HCRA regulate renovation contractors?
No, the HCRA (Home Construction Regulatory Authority) does NOT regulate renovation contractors in Ontario. This is one of the most common misconceptio...
Should I ask my contractor for a warranty on their work?
Absolutely yes - in Ontario, you're legally entitled to warranties on construction work, and reputable Ottawa contractors will provide clear warranty...
What is an ESA license number, and how can I look it up?
An ESA license number is a unique identifier assigned by the Electrical Safety Authority to Licensed Electrical Contractors (LECs) in Ontario, allowin...
What should I do if a contractor is pressuring me to decide quickly?
If a contractor is pressuring you to decide quickly in Ottawa, that's a major red flag - walk away immediately. Legitimate contractors understand that...
What is a WSIB clearance certificate and why is it important?
A WSIB clearance certificate is an official document from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board of Ontario that proves a contractor has no outstand...
Should I hire a project manager for my renovation?
For major renovations in Ottawa ($50,000+), a project manager can be worth the 10-15% cost, but first understand what you're actually getting versus w...
What communication should I have in writing with my contractor?
In Ottawa, you should get ALL key communications with your contractor in writing to protect yourself legally and ensure compliance with Ontario's Cons...
Is it normal for a contractor to ask for a 50% deposit?
No, a 50% deposit is NOT normal and is a major red flag in Ottawa's construction industry. Legitimate contractors typically ask for 10-20% down, with...
Can I sue my contractor for poor workmanship in Ontario?
Yes, you can sue your contractor for poor workmanship in Ontario, but there are several steps you should take first that may resolve the issue faster...
Is it a red flag if a contractor only wants cash payment?
Yes, a contractor demanding cash-only payment is a major red flag in Ottawa and throughout Ontario. This practice often indicates potential tax evasio...
Should I hire a kitchen designer separate from my contractor?
In Ottawa, you have three main options for kitchen design: hiring a separate designer, using your contractor's design services, or working with a desi...
Is it normal for a contractor to ask for a 50% deposit upfront?
No, a 50% deposit upfront is NOT normal in Ottawa and is actually a major red flag that could indicate a scam or financially unstable contractor. Und...
What are my options if a contractor goes bankrupt mid-project?
If your contractor goes bankrupt mid-project in Ottawa, you have several legal protections and recovery options, but acting quickly is crucial to prot...
Can I be liable if a contractor's worker gets hurt on my property?
Yes, as an Ottawa homeowner, you can potentially be held liable if a contractor's worker gets injured on your property, but there are important protec...
What makes a contractor good at communication during a project?
Good contractor communication in Ottawa projects comes down to proactive updates, clear documentation, and accessibility when issues arise - this prot...
Should I use online contractor matching services?
Online contractor matching services can be risky in Ottawa - most legitimate local contractors don't need these platforms because they're already busy...
Should I hire an interior designer for my renovation?
Whether to hire an interior designer for your Ottawa renovation depends on your project's complexity, budget, and your comfort level with design decis...
What should I do if my contractor won't finish the job?
If your contractor won't finish the job in Ottawa, you have several legal protections and steps to take immediately to protect yourself and get the wo...
What does TSSA certified mean for HVAC contractors?
TSSA certification means your HVAC contractor is legally authorized to work on gas appliances and pressure systems in Ontario - it's mandatory for any...
Should I trust contractors who show up after a storm?
Be extremely cautious with door-to-door contractors after storms in Ottawa - most legitimate contractors are already booked solid and don't need to ca...
Do I need separate trades or a general contractor for my renovation?
For most Ottawa renovations, a licensed general contractor is typically your best choice - they coordinate all trades, pull permits, and take responsi...
What recourse do I have if a contractor takes my deposit and disappears?
If a contractor takes your deposit and disappears in Ottawa, you have several legal and practical options, but acting quickly is crucial for the best...
Do all contractors in Ontario need WSIB coverage?
Not all contractors in Ontario need WSIB coverage, but most do - and as an Ottawa homeowner, you should always verify coverage before hiring any contr...
What are storm chaser contractors, and why should I avoid them?
Storm chaser contractors are out-of-town contractors who follow severe weather events like hailstorms, ice storms, or windstorms into Ottawa and surro...
What happens if a contractor gets injured on my property without WSIB?
If a contractor gets injured on your Ottawa property without WSIB coverage, you could be personally liable for their medical costs, lost wages, and ot...
What is arbitration for contractor disputes?
Arbitration is a private dispute resolution process where an independent arbitrator makes a binding decision on contractor disputes in Ottawa, offerin...
What is the cooling off period for contractor contracts in Ontario?
In Ontario, there is NO automatic cooling-off period for contractor contracts, unlike some consumer purchases. Once you sign a contract with a contrac...
What government agencies can help with contractor complaints in Ontario?
In Ontario, several government agencies can help with contractor complaints, with the specific agency depending on your type of issue and the work inv...
What happens if my contractor misses the completion deadline?
In Ottawa, if your contractor misses the completion deadline, your rights depend on what's written in your contract and whether the delay is reasonabl...
Is it a red flag if a contractor has no online reviews?
Yes, a lack of online reviews can be a red flag for contractors in Ottawa, but it depends on the context and what other verification you can find. In...
What are the warning signs of door-to-door contractor scams?
Door-to-door contractor scams are unfortunately common in Ottawa neighborhoods, especially after storms or in areas with visible home maintenance need...
What is the difference between a contractor and a tradesperson?
In Ottawa's construction industry, a contractor is the business entity that manages projects and hires workers, while a tradesperson is the skilled in...
What is a lien, and can a contractor put one on my house?
Yes, contractors in Ottawa can put a construction lien on your house if they're not paid for work performed, but Ontario's Construction Act provides s...
Is it better to hire a large renovation company or a small local contractor?
In Ottawa, both large renovation companies and small local contractors can deliver excellent results - the key is choosing based on your project size,...
What questions should I ask a contractor before hiring them?
Before hiring any contractor in Ottawa, you need to ask specific questions that verify their legitimacy, protect your investment, and ensure they can...
What are the signs of a bait and switch contractor?
Bait and switch is one of the most common contractor scams in Ottawa, where contractors lure you in with an unrealistically low quote then dramaticall...
What is mediation, and can it help resolve my contractor dispute?
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...
What type of insurance should a contractor have in Ontario?
In Ontario, contractors must carry several types of insurance to legally operate and protect both themselves and homeowners - with WSIB coverage being...
What is the difference between WSIB and liability insurance for contractors?
WSIB and liability insurance serve completely different purposes for Ottawa contractors - WSIB protects workers while liability insurance protects you...
What should I do if I have a dispute with my contractor?
If you have a dispute with your contractor in Ottawa, your first step should be to document everything and attempt direct communication, but you have...
What is an independent operator, and do they need WSIB?
In Ontario, an independent operator is someone who works for themselves rather than as an employee, and whether they need WSIB coverage depends on the...
What is a WSIB clearance certificate and how do I verify it?
A WSIB clearance certificate is proof that an Ontario contractor has no outstanding debts with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board and is in good...
How reliable are Google reviews for contractors?
Google reviews for Ottawa contractors can be helpful but shouldn't be your only vetting tool - they're easily manipulated and don't verify the most im...
What happens if work is done by an uninsured worker?
If work is done by an uninsured worker in Ottawa, you as the homeowner could be held personally liable for any injuries that occur on your property, p...
Can I check if my contractor has a valid WSIB clearance certificate?
Yes, you can verify your contractor's WSIB clearance certificate online through the WSIB website - this is crucial for protecting yourself from liabil...
Why are contractor quotes so different from each other?
Contractor quotes in Ottawa can vary dramatically - sometimes by 50-100% or more - and understanding why helps you make better hiring decisions rather...
What are the red flags that a contractor might be a scam?
In Ottawa, homeowners need to watch for several critical red flags that signal potential contractor scams - from door-to-door solicitation to demands...
Can I withhold payment if I'm not happy with the contractor's work?
Yes, you can withhold payment in Ottawa if work doesn't meet contract specifications, but you must follow Ontario's Construction Act rules to protect...
How much deposit should I give a contractor before work starts?
In Ontario, you should never pay more than 10% of the total contract value as a deposit before work begins, and many reputable contractors will ask fo...
What evidence do I need for a contractor lawsuit?
If you're pursuing legal action against a contractor in Ottawa, you'll need comprehensive documentation to prove your case - and the strength of your...
Should I visit a contractor's previous job sites?
Yes, visiting a contractor's previous job sites is one of the most valuable steps you can take when hiring in Ottawa - and any reputable contractor sh...
Should I hire a contractor who works alone or one with a full crew?
The choice between a solo contractor and a crew depends on your project scope, timeline, and budget - both can be excellent options in Ottawa if prope...
What paperwork should my contractor give me at the end?
At project completion, your Ottawa contractor should provide you with a comprehensive package including warranties, permits, inspection certificates,...
What happens if my contractor does not have liability insurance?
If your contractor doesn't have liability insurance in Ottawa, you become personally liable for any accidents, injuries, or property damage that occur...
What should I do if a contractor threatens me?
If a contractor threatens you in Ottawa, immediately document the threat, contact police if you feel unsafe, and report them to regulatory authorities...
What is the difference between a licensed and unlicensed contractor?
In Ottawa and Ontario, the difference between licensed and unlicensed contractors depends on the trade - some require mandatory licensing while others...
What is the difference between a contractor and a handyman?
In Ottawa, the key difference is licensing and scope of work - contractors are licensed for specific trades and can pull permits, while handymen typic...
What is the best way to find a contractor for my renovation?
The best way to find a reliable contractor in Ottawa is through a multi-step verification process that goes beyond just getting referrals - you need t...
Should I ask my contractor for proof of insurance before hiring?
Absolutely yes - you should always ask for proof of insurance before hiring any contractor in Ottawa, and it's one of the most important steps in prot...
What is the difference between a subcontractor and an employee?
In Ottawa construction projects, the difference between subcontractors and employees affects your liability, insurance coverage, and legal protections...
Why do some contractors not want to sign a written contract?
Some contractors avoid written contracts because it limits their ability to change terms, pricing, or scope mid-project - which should be a major red...
What rights do I have if a contractor doesn't finish the job?
In Ottawa and Ontario, you have several strong legal rights when a contractor abandons or fails to complete your project, including the right to withh...
What should I do if multiple contractors give very different quotes?
When contractors in Ottawa give vastly different quotes, it usually means they're not quoting the same scope of work or there are significant differen...
What is the Better Business Bureau process for contractor complaints?
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) provides a free dispute resolution service for contractor complaints in Ottawa, but it's just one tool in your consum...
What are the signs of a fly-by-night contractor?
Fly-by-night contractors are unfortunately common in Ottawa, especially after storms or during busy construction seasons. Here are the key red flags t...
How much should I hold back from my contractor?
In Ontario, you must hold back 10% of the contract price under the Construction Act (formerly Construction Lien Act) - this is mandatory for all const...
What are the warning signs of a scam contractor in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, scam contractors often target homeowners with door-to-door sales, demand large upfront payments, and can't provide proper ESA or TSSA licen...
What does a general contractor do?
A general contractor in Ottawa serves as the project manager and main point of contact for your renovation or construction project, coordinating all t...
Can I leave a negative review for a contractor without getting sued?
Yes, you can leave negative reviews for contractors in Ottawa without getting sued, as long as your review is truthful, factual, and based on your act...
What work requires a licensed tradesperson in Ontario?
In Ontario, several types of construction work legally require licensed tradespeople to perform the work safely and to code. This isn't just about qua...
Is my contractor's vehicle insurance sufficient for deliveries?
Your contractor's standard vehicle insurance may not be sufficient for construction deliveries to your Ottawa property - you need to verify they have...
Why do I need to verify WSIB coverage before hiring a contractor?
WSIB coverage verification is legally required in Ontario and protects you from potentially devastating liability if a worker gets injured on your pro...
Should I hire a contractor based on their showroom or portfolio?
A contractor's showroom or portfolio can be helpful for evaluating their work quality, but in Ottawa's competitive construction market, these should n...
What is WSIB and why does it matter when hiring a contractor?
WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) is Ontario's workplace insurance system that protects both workers and homeowners when construction work i...
Do plumbers need to be licensed in Ontario?
Yes, plumbers in Ontario must be licensed through the Ontario College of Trades (OCOT) to legally perform plumbing work, and this applies to all plumb...
How much does a general contractor charge on top of subcontractors?
General contractors in Ottawa typically charge 15-25% markup on subcontractor costs, plus a separate project management fee of 10-15% of the total pro...
What does errors and omissions insurance cover for contractors?
Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance for contractors in Ottawa covers professional mistakes, oversights, and failures to deliver services as promised...
What is the difference between G1, G2, and G3 gas technician licenses?
In Ontario, G1, G2, and G3 gas technician licenses represent different levels of certification through TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority)...
Do roofers need to be licensed in Ontario?
Roofers do not need to be licensed in Ontario - there's no provincial licensing requirement specifically for roofing contractors. However, this doesn'...
What questions should I ask a contractor's references?
When calling a contractor's references in Ottawa, ask specific questions that reveal how they handle the regulatory requirements and work quality that...
What is small claims court, and can I use it for contractor disputes?
Yes, you can use Ontario's Small Claims Court for contractor disputes in Ottawa, and it's often the most practical option for homeowners dealing with...
Do I need a general contractor or can I hire trades directly?
In Ottawa, you can legally hire trades directly for most projects, but whether you should depends on your project's complexity, your experience managi...
Do subcontractors need their own WSIB coverage in Ontario?
Yes, subcontractors in Ontario are generally required to have their own WSIB coverage, and this is a critical verification step when hiring contractor...
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 better for protecting yourself during the...
Should I be worried if a contractor has no online presence?
Yes, you should be concerned if a contractor has zero online presence in 2024-2025, especially in Ottawa's competitive construction market. While it's...
Should I hire the cheapest contractor or pay more for quality work?
In Ottawa's competitive construction market, the cheapest bid is rarely the best value and often signals potential problems with licensing, insurance,...
What should be in a contract with my renovation contractor in Ottawa?
Every renovation contract in Ottawa should include specific project details, payment schedules, permit responsibilities, and protection clauses that c...
What does a general contractor actually do on a renovation project?
A general contractor in Ottawa serves as your project manager and coordinator, overseeing all aspects of your renovation from permits to final cleanup...
Should I hire different contractors for each trade or one general contractor?
For most Ottawa homeowners, hiring one licensed general contractor is the better choice - they coordinate all trades, handle permits, and take respons...
What are common contractor scams in Ottawa?
Ottawa homeowners face several common contractor scams, from door-to-door "roof inspectors" to unlicensed workers offering cash deals. Here's what to...
What trades need to be licensed in Ontario?
In Ontario, several construction trades require specific licensing or certification, with different authorities overseeing different types of work....
What is the difference between a general contractor and a subcontractor?
In Ottawa's construction industry, a general contractor manages your entire project and hires specialized subcontractors, while subcontractors perform...
How many quotes should I get before hiring a contractor?
For most home renovation projects in Ottawa, you should get 3-4 detailed quotes from licensed contractors to ensure competitive pricing and find the r...
Is it safe to hire a contractor who only accepts cash?
No, it's not safe to hire a contractor in Ottawa who only accepts cash - this is one of the biggest red flags in the construction industry and often i...
Is door-to-door contractor solicitation a scam?
Door-to-door contractor solicitation in Ottawa is a major red flag and often indicates a scam or predatory business practices. While not technically i...