How do I evaluate a contractor's previous work quality?

Evaluating contractor work quality in Ottawa requires going beyond just looking at photos - you need to verify their track record through multiple channels and see actual completed projects.

Request Recent Ottawa Project References

Ask for 3-5 recent projects completed in Ottawa within the last 12 months. Quality contractors will readily provide references from clients in areas like Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, or other Ottawa neighborhoods. Get full contact information and permission to reach out to these homeowners directly.

When calling references, ask specific questions: How was their communication? Did they stick to timelines? Were there any issues and how were they resolved? Would you hire them again? Most importantly, ask if you can drive by to see the exterior work or if they'd be comfortable showing you photos of the finished project.

Verify Licensing and Insurance Status

Before evaluating any work samples, confirm their credentials through official Ontario channels. Check their ESA license status at esasafe.com/contractor-locator if they do electrical work, or verify TSSA certification at tssa.org for gas/HVAC work. Confirm their WSIB clearance certificate is current - this protects you from liability if someone gets injured on your property.

A contractor who maintains proper licensing typically takes pride in their work quality because their reputation directly impacts their ability to operate legally in Ottawa.

Examine Permit History with City of Ottawa

Quality contractors pull proper permits for work requiring them. You can verify this by calling City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 and asking about permit history for specific addresses where they've worked (with the homeowner's permission). Contractors who consistently skip permits often cut other corners too.

Look for Workmanship Details in Person

Photos can be misleading, so try to see completed work in person when possible. Look for clean, straight lines, proper finishing work, and attention to details like caulking, paint lines, and hardware alignment. Quality work shows consistent attention to detail throughout the project, not just in the most visible areas.

Pay attention to how they handle transitions between materials, corner work, and finishing touches. These details separate good contractors from average ones.

Check Online Presence and Reviews

Search their business name on Google, Better Business Bureau, and HomeStars. Look for patterns in reviews - do clients consistently mention the same positive traits or recurring problems? Be wary of contractors with only glowing 5-star reviews (could be fake) or those with multiple complaints about the same issues.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if a contractor can't provide local Ottawa references, refuses to let you contact previous clients, or only shows photos without addresses. Quality contractors are proud of their work and happy to connect you with satisfied customers.

Also watch for contractors who can't explain their licensing status, seem evasive about permits, or pressure you to start immediately without proper documentation.

For verified contractors in the Ottawa area who have already been pre-screened for licensing and work quality, check our contractor directory at justynrookcontracting.com/directory.

The time you invest in properly evaluating a contractor's previous work will save you from costly mistakes and ensure your Ottawa renovation project meets your expectations.