How do I handle a contractor dispute?

In Ottawa, you have several escalation options for contractor disputes, starting with direct negotiation and potentially ending with legal action through Ontario's construction lien laws.

Start with Direct Communication

Document everything in writing first. Send your contractor a clear email outlining the specific issues, referencing your contract terms, and requesting a resolution timeline. Many disputes stem from miscommunication about scope, timelines, or quality expectations. Give them 7-10 business days to respond with a solution.

Leverage Your Contract and Payments

If you followed proper payment schedules (never pay large amounts upfront), you have leverage. Under Ontario's Construction Act, you should be holding back 10% of each payment until 60 days after substantial completion. This holdback protects you and gives contractors incentive to resolve issues.

For projects requiring City of Ottawa permits, don't release final payment until you receive the final inspection approval. Call 613-580-2424 to verify permit status and ensure all work meets Ottawa Building Code requirements.

Escalate Through Licensing Bodies

If your dispute involves electrical work, contact the ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) at 1-877-372-7233. Licensed electrical contractors must maintain good standing, and ESA can investigate safety violations or unpermitted work. Check if your contractor's license is current at esasafe.com.

For gas or HVAC disputes, contact TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) at 1-877-682-8772. They regulate gas technicians and can investigate safety concerns or improper installations.

Use Ontario Consumer Protection

Contact Ontario's Consumer Protection Office at 1-800-889-9768 or file online at ontario.ca/consumer. They handle complaints about unfair business practices, contract violations, and can help with door-to-door sales issues (which have a 10-day cooling-off period in Ontario).

Consider Mediation Services

Before expensive legal action, try mediation. The Better Business Bureau offers dispute resolution services, or contact a private mediator. Many contractor associations also provide mediation for members.

Legal Options and Lien Protection

If the contractor hasn't been paid and might file a construction lien against your Ottawa property, consult a lawyer immediately. Under Ontario's Construction Act, contractors have 60 days after substantial completion to file liens. You can protect yourself by ensuring proper holdbacks and getting statutory declarations that subcontractors and suppliers have been paid.

For significant disputes, small claims court handles claims up to $35,000. For larger amounts, you'll need Superior Court.

Document Everything

Keep all contracts, change orders, photos of work progress, email communications, and payment records. Take photos of any deficient work before allowing repairs. This documentation is crucial whether you're dealing with insurance claims, warranty issues, or legal proceedings.

Prevention for Next Time

Always verify WSIB clearance certificates, check references from recent Ottawa clients, and ensure proper permits are pulled through ottawa.ca/building. A legitimate contractor will welcome verification of their credentials and proper permitting.

The key is acting quickly - many protections have time limits, and early intervention often prevents small issues from becoming major disputes.