How do I verify a contractor's business is legitimate?

In Ottawa, verifying a contractor's legitimacy involves checking multiple official databases and documentation to ensure they're properly licensed, insured, and in good standing with Ontario authorities.

Start with the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) if your project involves any electrical work. Visit esasafe.com/contractor-locator to verify they hold a valid Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) designation. This is mandatory for anyone doing electrical work in Ontario - no exceptions. The ESA database shows their license status, expiry date, and any disciplinary actions.

For gas or HVAC work, check the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) database at tssa.org. Look for G1 or G2 gas technician certification, or HVAC contractor registration depending on your project scope. TSSA certification is required for all gas appliance installation, repair, and HVAC system work in Ontario.

Next, verify their WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage at wsib.ca/clearances. Request a current WSIB Clearance Certificate - this proves they're carrying proper workplace insurance for their employees. If they claim they don't need WSIB because they work alone, be cautious. Many legitimate contractors carry WSIB even as sole proprietors for additional protection.

Check their general liability insurance by requesting a Certificate of Insurance directly from their insurance company, not just a photocopy. The certificate should show minimum $2 million coverage and list your property address as additionally insured. Call the insurance company's number (not one the contractor provides) to verify the policy is active.

For City of Ottawa building permits, legitimate contractors will either pull permits themselves or clearly explain why you need to pull them as the homeowner. Visit ottawa.ca/building or call 613-580-2424 to verify any permits they claim to have pulled. Be wary of contractors who dismiss permits as unnecessary - most renovation work in Ottawa requires permits.

Search the Better Business Bureau (BBB) database and Google Reviews, but remember these can be manipulated. More reliable is checking with Consumer Protection Ontario at ontario.ca/consumer for any registered complaints or legal actions.

Ask for local references from recent Ottawa-area projects, specifically in neighborhoods like Kanata, Orleans, or Barrhaven if that's where you're located. Drive by these properties if possible and speak directly with previous customers about their experience.

Verify their business registration through the Ontario government's business registry. Legitimate contractors should have proper business registration, not just be operating under a personal name without any formal business structure.

Red flags include contractors who show up at your door unsolicited, demand large upfront payments, lack proper licensing for their trade, can't provide insurance documentation, or pressure you to sign immediately. Legitimate Ottawa contractors understand you need time to verify their credentials and will welcome your due diligence.

The extra time spent verifying credentials upfront can save you thousands in repairs, legal fees, and headaches later. Ottawa's building regulations are strict, and working with properly licensed, insured contractors protects both your investment and your family's safety.