How do I file a complaint against a contractor in Ottawa?

If you need to file a complaint against a contractor in Ottawa, your options depend on the type of work and issue involved - start with the relevant licensing body (ESA for electrical, TSSA for gas), then escalate to Consumer Protection Ontario or small claims court if needed.

Licensed Trade Complaints (Electrical/Gas)

For electrical contractors, file directly with the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) at 1-877-372-7233 or through their online complaint portal at esasafe.com. ESA investigates unlicensed electrical work, safety violations, and contractor misconduct. They can issue fines, suspend licenses, and order corrective work.

For gas fitting or HVAC contractors, contact the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) at 1-877-682-8772 or file online at tssa.org. TSSA handles complaints about unsafe installations, unlicensed work, and certification violations.

General Contractor Complaints

Since Ontario doesn't license general contractors, file with Consumer Protection Ontario through ontario.ca/consumer or call 1-800-889-9768. They handle complaints about contract violations, deposit issues, incomplete work, and fraudulent practices. Document everything: contracts, payments, photos, communications, and timeline of issues.

Ottawa Building Code Violations

Contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 if the work violates building codes or was done without required permits. The city can issue stop-work orders and require compliance. This is especially important for structural work, additions, or secondary suites that affect safety and zoning.

Small Claims Court Option

For monetary disputes up to $35,000, file in Ontario Small Claims Court. The Ottawa courthouse is at 161 Elgin Street. You'll need detailed documentation of contracts, payments, and damages. Filing fees range from $102-$220 depending on claim amount. Many contractor disputes settle before trial when faced with formal legal action.

Better Business Bureau

File with BBB Ottawa (bbb.org/ottawa) for additional pressure and documentation. While not legally binding, BBB complaints create public records that affect contractor reputations and can motivate resolution.

What to Document

Before filing any complaint, gather: original contract and any changes, proof of payments (cancelled checks, receipts), photos of work quality issues, written communications (emails, texts), permit documentation, and timeline of events. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case.

WSIB and Insurance Issues

If a worker was injured on your property and the contractor lacks WSIB coverage, contact WSIB at 1-800-387-0750. For insurance fraud or unlicensed contractors claiming false coverage, report to the Insurance Bureau of Canada at 1-877-422-4357.

Prevention for Next Time

Always verify ESA licenses at esasafe.com, check WSIB clearance certificates, get detailed written contracts, and never pay large amounts upfront. The City of Ottawa requires permits for most substantial work - verify these were obtained through ottawa.ca/building.

Key Ottawa Contact: Consumer Protection Ontario 1-800-889-9768 for most general contractor complaints.