How can I tell if contractor reviews are fake?

Fake contractor reviews are a major red flag in Ottawa's competitive construction market - here's how to spot them and protect yourself when vetting contractors.

Red Flags in Online Reviews

Timing patterns are the biggest giveaway. Legitimate Ottawa contractors accumulate reviews gradually over months and years as they complete projects. Be suspicious of contractors with multiple 5-star reviews posted within days of each other, or sudden bursts of glowing reviews after long periods of silence.

Generic language screams fake. Real Ottawa homeowners mention specific details: "John replaced our furnace in our Kanata townhouse during the February cold snap" versus vague praise like "Great service, very professional, highly recommend!" Real reviews often include minor complaints or specific project details that fake reviews lack.

Review profiles tell the story. Click on reviewer names - fake accounts often have no profile picture, minimal review history, or only review contractors and restaurants (common fake account patterns). Legitimate reviewers typically have varied review histories spanning different businesses and time periods.

Ottawa-Specific Verification Steps

Cross-reference multiple platforms - don't rely solely on Google reviews. Check HomeStars, Better Business Bureau, and the contractor's social media. Legitimate Ottawa contractors typically have presence across platforms with consistent quality ratings.

Verify project details mentioned in reviews. If someone claims the contractor did a "kitchen renovation in Barrhaven," ask the contractor for references from that neighborhood. Real customers are usually happy to briefly chat with potential clients.

Check ESA and TSSA records at esasafe.com and tssa.org. If reviews mention electrical or gas work, verify the contractor is actually licensed to perform that work in Ontario. Many fake reviews mention services the contractor isn't even qualified to provide.

What Genuine Ottawa Reviews Look Like

Real reviews mention specific Ottawa challenges: dealing with clay soil in Orleans, heritage restrictions in the Glebe, or winter construction delays. They reference actual timelines, permit processes, and often mention working with City of Ottawa inspectors.

Authentic reviews include minor criticisms alongside praise: "Project took two weeks longer than expected due to permit delays, but quality was excellent" or "Wish communication had been better, but the finished basement in our Nepean home exceeded expectations."

Recent photos accompanying reviews are harder to fake than text alone. Legitimate customers often post progress shots or finished work photos that show Ottawa-area homes and neighborhoods.

Professional Verification Methods

Request recent client references directly from contractors. Legitimate Ottawa contractors readily provide contact information for recent clients in your area. Call these references and ask specific questions about timeline, quality, and permit handling.

Verify WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances and ask for current insurance certificates. Contractors with fake reviews often lack proper coverage - a major red flag for Ottawa homeowners.

Check with City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) about permit history. Ask contractors for examples of recent permits they've pulled - this information is public record and hard to fake.

The best protection against fake reviews is thorough vetting through official channels. Trust ESA licenses, TSSA certifications, WSIB clearances, and direct client references over online reviews alone when choosing your Ottawa contractor.