How do I get a retroactive permit for work already done?

If work was done without a permit in Ottawa, you can apply for a retroactive permit through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services, but the process is more complex and expensive than getting permits upfront.

The City of Ottawa does allow retroactive permits for work that should have been permitted but wasn't. However, this isn't just a simple paperwork fix - you'll need to prove the work meets current building code standards, which can be challenging and costly.

How to Apply for Retroactive Permits in Ottawa

Contact the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building to start the process. You'll need to submit detailed drawings and specifications showing exactly what work was completed, prepared by a qualified professional like an architect or engineer for structural work.

The city will require a comprehensive inspection of all the unpermitted work. This often means opening up walls, ceilings, or floors to verify electrical, plumbing, insulation, and structural elements meet code. An inspector needs to see what's normally hidden behind finished surfaces.

What Makes Retroactive Permits Challenging

The biggest hurdle is proving code compliance for work that's already covered up. If electrical work was done without ESA permits, you'll need an ESA inspection which may require removing drywall to verify wire routing, junction boxes, and panel connections. For plumbing, inspectors need to verify proper venting, drainage slopes, and fixture connections.

Retroactive permit fees in Ottawa are typically 2-3 times higher than regular permit fees, so expect $400-1500+ depending on the scope of work. You'll also pay for multiple inspections and potentially costly remedial work if anything doesn't meet current code standards.

ESA and TSSA Requirements

Electrical work requires separate ESA permits and inspections even for retroactive applications. Check if your electrical work was done by a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) at esasafe.com/contractor-locator. Gas work needs TSSA certification verification at tssa.org.

Red Flags and Protection

If you're buying a home with unpermitted work, make getting retroactive permits a condition of sale or negotiate the cost into your offer. Unpermitted work can affect insurance coverage, resale value, and create liability issues.

Be extremely cautious of contractors who suggest skipping permits or say "the city will never know." This often indicates they're not properly licensed or insured, and you'll be left dealing with the consequences.

When Retroactive Permits Aren't Possible

Some work simply can't be retroactively permitted if it violates zoning bylaws, setback requirements, or fundamental building code provisions. In these cases, you may need to remove or significantly modify the work.

The best approach is always getting permits before work begins. Contact Ottawa Building Code Services early in your planning process to avoid these complications and additional costs.