How do I spot a bad contractor before hiring them?

Red flags when hiring contractors in Ottawa include unlicensed work, door-to-door solicitation, demands for full payment upfront, and inability to provide proper insurance documentation - these are your biggest warning signs to avoid.

License and Certification Red Flags

Start by verifying their credentials through official Ontario channels. For electrical contractors, check their Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) status at licensing.esasafe.com. Gas and HVAC technicians should have current TSSA certification searchable at tssa.org. Any contractor who can't provide these numbers or gets defensive about verification is an immediate red flag.

In Ottawa, legitimate contractors know they need proper permits from the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424). Be wary of anyone who suggests skipping permits to "save money" or claims permits aren't needed for work that clearly requires them under the Ontario Building Code.

Insurance and Financial Warning Signs

Demand to see current WSIB clearance certificates and liability insurance before any work begins. Contractors operating without WSIB coverage put you at serious financial risk if someone gets injured on your property. Verify WSIB status at wsib.ca/clearances - legitimate contractors provide this documentation without hesitation.

Payment red flags include demanding large sums upfront, asking for full payment before work starts, or insisting on cash-only transactions. Under Ontario's Construction Lien Act, you're entitled to hold back 10% of payments for 60 days after substantial completion. Any contractor pressuring you to waive this protection is suspect.

Estimate and Contract Warning Signs

Quality contractors provide detailed written estimates breaking down materials, labor, permits, and timelines. Be suspicious of vague estimates, verbal-only agreements, or quotes significantly higher or lower than others. In Ottawa's current market, legitimate bathroom renovations typically range $15,000-$50,000, kitchens $25,000-$80,000 - quotes far outside these ranges warrant extra scrutiny.

Door-to-door solicitation is a major red flag, especially contractors claiming they're "working in the neighborhood" or have "leftover materials." Legitimate Ottawa contractors are typically booked weeks or months in advance and don't need to canvas neighborhoods for work.

Communication and Professionalism Red Flags

Watch for contractors who can't provide local references from recent Ottawa projects, refuse to let you contact previous customers, or can't provide a permanent business address. Legitimate contractors are proud of their work and happy to showcase it.

High-pressure tactics like "limited time offers," demands for immediate decisions, or claims that prices will increase if you don't sign today are classic scam indicators. Quality contractors understand that major renovations require careful consideration and planning.

Verification Steps Before Hiring

Always verify their business registration through Ontario's business registry, check Better Business Bureau ratings, and search their business name with "complaints" or "reviews" online. Contact the City of Ottawa Building Code Services to confirm they've successfully completed permitted work in the city.

For electrical work, call ESA directly at 1-877-372-7233 to verify licensing status. For gas work, contact TSSA at 1-877-682-8772. These extra steps take minutes but can save you thousands in potential problems.

Remember, legitimate contractors welcome verification and provide documentation readily. Anyone who seems evasive, rushes you through the process, or can't provide proper credentials should be avoided regardless of how attractive their pricing might seem.