How do I get a contractor to honor their warranty?

If your contractor isn't honoring their warranty in Ottawa, start by documenting everything in writing and referencing your original contract - most warranty disputes can be resolved through proper documentation and knowing your legal rights under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act.

Document Everything First

Your warranty claim needs a paper trail. Gather your original contract, any warranty documentation, photos of the defective work, and records of when you first notified the contractor. In Ontario, written contracts for home improvements over $50 must include warranty terms, so check what specific coverage you have.

Send your warranty claim to the contractor in writing (email works, but keep records). Be specific about what's defective, reference the warranty clause in your contract, and give them a reasonable timeline to respond - typically 10-15 business days is fair.

Know Your Ontario Rights

Under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act, contractors must honor written warranties. For construction work, you also have protection under the Construction Act (formerly Construction Lien Act). If work was done improperly, you may have grounds for breach of contract regardless of warranty terms.

The Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act doesn't cover renovations, but your contract warranty is still legally binding. Keep records of any additional damage caused by the defective work - you may be entitled to consequential damages.

Escalate Through Proper Channels

If the contractor doesn't respond or refuses to honor the warranty, contact the Better Business Bureau and leave reviews on Google and other platforms. Many contractors will respond when their reputation is at stake.

For licensed trades, file complaints with the relevant authorities:

• Electrical issues: Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) at 1-877-372-7233


• Gas/HVAC problems: Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA)


• General contractors: Check if they're members of professional associations

Legal Options in Ottawa

Consider small claims court for warranty disputes under $35,000. The process is designed for homeowners to represent themselves, and filing fees are reasonable ($102-$220 depending on claim size). Ottawa Small Claims Court is located at 161 Elgin Street.

For larger claims or complex issues, consult with a construction lawyer. Many offer free consultations and can send demand letters that often resolve disputes quickly.

Prevention for Future Projects

Always get warranties in writing as part of your contract. Standard warranty periods in Ottawa are typically:

• Workmanship: 1-2 years


• Materials: Manufacturer warranty (varies)


• Structural work: 2-7 years depending on scope

Verify your contractor has active WSIB coverage and liability insurance before work begins. Check their license status with ESA (for electrical) or TSSA (for gas) at esasafe.com and tssa.org respectively.

When Contractors Disappear

If your contractor has gone out of business or can't be reached, check if they had bonding or insurance that might cover warranty claims. Contact the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) if the work involved permits - they may have bonding information on file.

Document everything for potential insurance claims or legal action, and consider hiring another contractor to assess and quote the warranty work for your records.

The key is acting quickly and maintaining detailed records - warranty rights can expire, and evidence becomes harder to gather over time.