How can I verify a gas technician's TSSA certification?

In Ottawa and across Ontario, you can verify a gas technician's TSSA certification through the official TSSA website at tssa.org using their technician lookup tool.

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) maintains a public database of all certified gas technicians in Ontario. Here's exactly how to verify your technician's credentials:

Step-by-Step Verification Process:

Visit tssa.org and navigate to their "Find a Contractor" or technician search tool. You can search by the technician's name, company name, or certification number. The database will show you their current certification status, what type of gas work they're qualified to perform (G1, G2, G3 classifications), and when their certification expires.

G1 technicians can work on residential gas appliances and basic installations. G2 technicians have broader qualifications including commercial work and more complex residential systems. G3 covers industrial applications. For most Ottawa homeowners, you'll be working with G1 or G2 certified technicians.

What the TSSA Database Shows:

The lookup will display the technician's full certification details, including their specializations (furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, etc.), certification expiry date, and any restrictions on their license. Active certifications are updated regularly, so you're seeing current information.

Red Flags to Watch For:

If a gas technician can't provide their TSSA certification number or seems reluctant to have you verify it, that's a major red flag. In Ontario, it's illegal to perform gas work without proper TSSA certification. Never hire someone who says they'll "get certified later" or claims they don't need certification for "simple" gas work.

Ottawa-Specific Considerations:

When hiring gas technicians in Ottawa, remember that gas work typically requires both TSSA certification AND a City of Ottawa permit. Your certified technician should be familiar with pulling permits through ottawa.ca/building or can guide you through the homeowner permit process. For gas line work, conversions (like oil-to-gas), or new installations, expect permit fees of $200-500 depending on the scope.

Additional Verification Steps:

Beyond TSSA certification, verify the technician carries proper insurance and WSIB coverage through wsib.ca/clearances. For contractors working in Ottawa neighborhoods like Kanata, Orleans, or Barrhaven, this protection is essential for both you and the worker.

Official Resources:

• TSSA Technician Lookup: tssa.org


• City of Ottawa Gas Permits: ottawa.ca/building or 613-580-2424


• WSIB Clearance Verification: wsib.ca/clearances

Always verify certification before any work begins - it's your best protection against unqualified work that could create serious safety hazards in your Ottawa home.