How do I verify a contractor's references?

Verifying contractor references in Ottawa is crucial - you should personally contact at least 3 recent customers and ask specific questions about work quality, timeline adherence, and professionalism.

When a contractor provides references, don't just accept a list of names. Here's exactly how to verify them properly in Ottawa:

Contact References Directly
Call each reference yourself - never rely on written testimonials or reviews alone. Ask for customers from the past 6-12 months, not just their best jobs from years ago. Request a mix of project types similar to yours if possible.

Essential Questions to Ask References
Ask about work quality: "Did they complete everything in the contract?" and "Would you hire them again?" Inquire about timeline: "Did they start and finish when promised?" and "How did they handle delays?" Ask about professionalism: "Did they clean up daily?" "Were workers respectful?" and "How did they handle problems or changes?"

Red Flags When Checking References
Be wary if the contractor can't provide local Ottawa-area references, gives only first names or phone numbers that don't work, or if references seem overly rehearsed. If multiple references give nearly identical responses, that's suspicious. Also watch for references who seem uncomfortable or hesitant to recommend the contractor.

Drive-By Verification
Ask references if you can see the completed work from the street (for exterior projects). This helps verify the contractor actually did the work and lets you assess quality firsthand. For interior work, some satisfied customers will allow a brief walkthrough by appointment.

Check Multiple Project Types
If you're planning a kitchen renovation, try to speak with customers who had similar work done. Different types of projects reveal different contractor strengths and weaknesses. A contractor great at decks might struggle with detailed interior work.

Verify Recent Work
Focus on jobs completed within the last year. Contractors' quality, crew, and business practices can change significantly over time. Recent references give you the most accurate picture of what to expect.

Additional Ottawa-Specific Verification
Beyond references, verify the contractor's ESA license at esasafe.com/contractor-locator for electrical work, check TSSA certification at tssa.org for gas/HVAC work, and confirm WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau and search their business name with "Ottawa" and "complaints" online.

Document Everything
Keep notes from your reference calls, including dates, names, and specific feedback. This information helps you compare contractors objectively and provides protection if issues arise later.

For help finding pre-verified contractors in Ottawa, check our directory at ottawaconstructionnetwork.com/directory where we've already done initial screening of licenses and insurance.