How do I report a contractor to the Better Business Bureau?

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) accepts complaints against contractors online at bbb.org, but in Ottawa, you have several more effective options that can actually protect other homeowners and potentially get you results.

Filing a BBB Complaint

To file with the BBB serving Ottawa (BBB serving Eastern and Northern Ontario & the Outaouais), visit bbb.org/eastern-northern-ontario-outaouais and click "File a Complaint." You'll need to provide:

• Contractor's business name and address
• Detailed description of the issue
• Timeline of events
• Any supporting documentation (contracts, photos, emails)
• What resolution you're seeking

The BBB will forward your complaint to the business and attempt to facilitate a resolution. However, BBB membership is voluntary and they have no enforcement power.

More Effective Options in Ottawa/Ontario

For Licensed Trades, Report to Regulatory Bodies:

• Electrical contractors: File complaints with ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) at esasafe.com - they can actually suspend licenses


• Gas/HVAC contractors: Report to TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) at tssa.org


• General contractors: Contact the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services at ontario.ca/consumer

For Permit Violations:
Call City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 if the contractor:

• Did work without required permits


• Violated building codes


• Left work unsafe or incomplete

For Serious Issues:

• Consumer Protection Ontario: ontario.ca/page/filing-consumer-complaint - they investigate unfair business practices


• Small Claims Court: For amounts under $35,000, this is often more effective than BBB complaints


• Police: If you suspect fraud or theft (contractor took money and disappeared)

What to Include in Any Complaint

Document everything: contracts, change orders, payment receipts, photos of work quality, email communications, and timeline of issues. Be specific about financial losses and safety concerns.

Why Multiple Reports Matter

Filing with both BBB and the appropriate regulatory body creates a paper trail. Future homeowners researching contractors will see BBB complaints, while regulatory complaints can actually result in license suspensions or revocations.

The key is understanding that BBB complaints create public records that warn other Ottawa homeowners, but regulatory complaints with ESA, TSSA, or Consumer Protection Ontario can actually stop bad contractors from continuing to operate.