How do I get a contractor to sign a written contract?

In Ottawa, you should never hire a contractor without a written contract - and any legitimate contractor will expect and provide one. If a contractor refuses to provide a written contract, that's a major red flag and you should find someone else.

How to Ensure You Get a Written Contract

Before you even request quotes, let contractors know upfront that you require a written contract for any work. Professional contractors in Ottawa understand this is standard practice and a legal requirement for many types of work under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act.

When requesting estimates, say something like: "We'll need a detailed written contract before any work begins. Can you provide that?" Legitimate contractors will say yes immediately. Those who hesitate, make excuses, or suggest a handshake deal should be removed from your list.

For projects over $50 in Ontario, you have specific rights under the Consumer Protection Act, including a written contract requirement for home improvement services. The contract must include the contractor's business name, address, phone number, total price, detailed description of work, materials to be used, start and completion dates, and your cancellation rights.

What Your Ottawa Contract Must Include

Your written contract should specify the contractor's ESA license number (for electrical work), TSSA certification (for gas/HVAC work), WSIB clearance certificate number, and liability insurance details. Include the specific City of Ottawa building permit numbers if required for your project.

The contract should detail the payment schedule - never pay large amounts upfront. In Ontario, you're entitled to hold back 10% of the contract price for 60 days after substantial completion under the Construction Lien Act. Make sure this holdback provision is clearly stated in your contract.

Include specific materials (brands, models, colors), cleanup responsibilities, change order procedures, and what happens if permits are required but not yet obtained. For Ottawa projects, reference which party is responsible for obtaining permits through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424).

Red Flags That Signal Problems

Contractors who won't provide written contracts often exhibit other warning signs: they demand large upfront payments, claim permits aren't needed when they are, can't provide proof of insurance or WSIB coverage, or pressure you to sign immediately. These are classic signs of unlicensed or fraudulent operators.

Door-to-door contractors are particularly notorious for avoiding written contracts. Ontario's Consumer Protection Act gives you a 10-day cooling-off period for contracts signed at your home, but only if there's a proper written contract.

Getting Help If They Refuse

If you're dealing with a contractor who won't provide a written contract, contact the City of Ottawa's Business Licensing office or the Ontario Consumer Protection office. For electrical or gas work, you can also verify their licensing through ESA (esasafe.com) or TSSA (tssa.org) - unlicensed contractors often avoid contracts because they can't legally perform the work.

Remember: a written contract protects both you and the contractor. Any professional who refuses this basic protection isn't someone you want working on your Ottawa home.