How long do I have to file a complaint against a contractor?

In Ontario, you have 2 years from when you knew or should have known about the issue to file most complaints against contractors, but some deadlines are much shorter - so act quickly.

Ontario Consumer Protection Act Timeline

Under the Ontario Consumer Protection Act, you generally have 2 years to file a complaint for issues like:

• Poor workmanship that becomes apparent later


• Breach of contract


• Unfair business practices


• Door-to-door sales violations (10-day cooling off period)

However, this 2-year clock starts ticking from when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered the problem - not necessarily when the work was completed.

Construction Lien Act - Much Shorter Deadlines

For construction liens in Ontario, you have much tighter deadlines:

• 45 days to register a lien after substantial completion


• 90 days to perfect the lien with a court action


• 60 days after substantial completion for the 10% holdback release

Tarion Warranty (New Homes)

If your contractor was building a new home under Tarion warranty:

• 1 year for most defects


• 2 years for water penetration, electrical, heating, plumbing


• 7 years for major structural defects

Where to File Complaints in Ottawa

Consumer Protection Ontario: ontario.ca/page/filing-consumer-complaint

• Online complaint system


• Investigates unfair business practices


• Can order restitution

Better Business Bureau: bbb.org

• Mediation services


• Public complaint records


• Not legally binding but often effective

Small Claims Court (Ottawa courthouse at 161 Elgin Street):

• Claims up to $35,000


• Self-represented option


• Filing fee: $75-$225 depending on claim amount

ESA Complaints (Electrical Work)

For electrical work issues, contact ESA within reasonable time:

• Phone: 1-877-372-7233


• Online: esasafe.com


• ESA can investigate safety violations and order corrections

What to Watch For - Act Fast

Don't wait if you notice:

• Safety hazards (electrical, gas, structural)


• Water damage or leaks


• Code violations


• Contractor disappeared mid-project


• Unlicensed work discovered

Protecting Yourself Going Forward

Document everything immediately:

• Photos of defects with timestamps


• All communications with contractor


• Receipts and contracts


• Weather conditions if relevant

The key is don't delay - even though you may have 2 years legally, evidence gets harder to preserve, witnesses move away, and contractors may become harder to locate. If you suspect problems, start documenting and consider filing complaints within the first few months.

For immediate safety concerns with electrical or gas work, contact ESA (1-877-372-7233) or TSSA (1-877-682-8772) right away - don't wait for any deadline.