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

Getting a written contract should be non-negotiable when hiring any contractor in Ottawa - it's your legal protection and required by Ontario's Consumer Protection Act for contracts over $50.

Here's exactly how to ensure you get a proper written contract from your Ottawa contractor:

Make It Clear From Your First Contact

When reaching out to contractors, state upfront that you require a detailed written contract before any work begins. Professional contractors in Ottawa expect this and will have standard contract templates ready. If a contractor seems hesitant about providing a written agreement, that's a major red flag to move on to someone else.

What Your Ottawa Contract Must Include

Under Ontario law, your contract must contain specific elements. Ensure it includes the contractor's full legal business name, Ontario business registration number, WSIB clearance certificate number, and insurance details. The contract should specify exactly what work will be performed, materials to be used (including grades and specifications), start and completion dates, and total cost broken down by labor and materials.

For projects requiring permits in Ottawa, the contract should clearly state who is responsible for obtaining permits from the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424). If electrical work is involved, verify the contractor's ESA license number is included and that ESA permits will be pulled. For gas or HVAC work, ensure TSSA certification details are documented.

Payment Terms and Holdback Protection

Your contract should follow Ontario's Construction Lien Act requirements. Never pay more than 10% down, and the contract should specify that you'll hold back 10% of the total contract price for 60 days after substantial completion. This holdback protects you from liens if the contractor doesn't pay their suppliers or subcontractors.

Payment schedules should be tied to completion milestones, not calendar dates. Avoid contractors who demand large upfront payments or full payment before completion.

Red Flags That Signal Problems

Be extremely wary of contractors who say "we don't need contracts for small jobs" or "a handshake is good enough." This is often how homeowners in Ottawa get burned. Similarly, avoid contractors who only provide verbal estimates or refuse to put details in writing.

Door-to-door contractors or those who pressure you to sign immediately are almost always scams. Legitimate Ottawa contractors will give you time to review contracts and won't pressure you to decide on the spot.

Getting Professional Contract Review

For major renovations over $10,000, consider having a lawyer review the contract before signing. The Law Society of Ontario can help you find qualified lawyers in Ottawa who handle construction contracts.

Your Legal Rights in Ontario

Remember that under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act, you have a 10-day cooling-off period for contracts signed in your home (not at the contractor's business location). You can cancel within this period for any reason.

If a contractor refuses to provide a written contract, contact the City of Ottawa at 311 or Ontario's Consumer Protection office. Licensed contractors who operate properly will always provide detailed written agreements - it protects both you and them.

For finding verified, professional contractors who work with proper contracts, check our contractor directory at ottawaconstructionnetwork.com/directory where all listed contractors are pre-screened for proper licensing and business practices.