How long is a contractor's quote typically valid for in Ottawa?

Most contractor quotes in Ottawa are valid for 30-60 days, though this varies significantly by trade and market conditions. During busy construction seasons (spring/summer), quotes may only be valid for 15-30 days due to rapidly changing material costs and high demand.

What Affects Quote Validity in Ottawa

The validity period depends on several Ottawa-specific factors. Electrical contractors often provide shorter validity periods (15-30 days) because copper and electrical components fluctuate frequently. HVAC contractors may offer 30-45 days, while general contractors for renovations typically provide 30-60 days for their quotes.

Material costs have been particularly volatile in the Ottawa market, especially for lumber, steel, and petroleum-based products. Many contractors now include escalation clauses that protect both parties if material costs increase significantly during the validity period.

What to Look for in Ottawa Contractor Quotes

Every legitimate quote should clearly state its expiration date. If a contractor provides a quote without an expiration date, ask them to specify this in writing. Be wary of quotes that are valid for extremely long periods (90+ days) during volatile market conditions, as this may indicate the contractor hasn't properly calculated current material costs.

For projects requiring City of Ottawa building permits, remember that permit approval can take 15-25 business days for renovations and 4-8 weeks for additions. Factor this timeline into your quote validity period, especially if you're comparing multiple contractors.

Protecting Yourself During the Quote Process

Always get quotes from at least three licensed contractors. Verify their ESA licenses at licensing.esasafe.com for electrical work, or TSSA certification at tssa.org for gas/HVAC work. Check their WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances before making any decisions.

If you need more time to decide, many Ottawa contractors will extend quote validity for serious customers, especially during slower winter months. However, they may require a small deposit or signed letter of intent to hold pricing beyond the original expiration date.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious of contractors who pressure you to sign immediately because their quote "expires today" - legitimate contractors understand that major renovations require careful consideration. Also watch for quotes that seem significantly lower than others, as these may not include proper permits, insurance, or may use substandard materials.

For projects over $500, Ontario's Consumer Protection Act gives you a 10-day cooling-off period after signing, but it's better to take your time during the quote evaluation phase.

Getting the Most from Your Quote Period

Use the validity period to verify the contractor's credentials, check references, and ensure all necessary permits are included in their quote. Contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 if you're unsure about permit requirements for your project. This preparation time is crucial for avoiding costly surprises later in your renovation project.