Is door-to-door contractor solicitation a scam?

Door-to-door contractor solicitation is a major red flag in Ottawa and across Ontario - while not always illegal, it's the preferred method of scammers and unlicensed operators who prey on homeowners.

The City of Ottawa and Ontario Consumer Protection strongly warn against hiring door-to-door contractors. These operators typically target seniors and vulnerable homeowners with high-pressure tactics, often claiming they "noticed problems" with your roof, driveway, or siding while "working in the neighborhood."

Common Door-to-Door Scam Tactics in Ottawa

Legitimate contractors rarely need to solicit door-to-door because they're busy with referrals and repeat customers. Scammers use tactics like claiming they have "leftover materials" from another job nearby, offering steep "today only" discounts, or insisting they need payment upfront to "secure materials." They often target specific Ottawa neighborhoods like Kanata, Orleans, or Barrhaven in organized campaigns.

These operators frequently lack proper licensing - they won't have ESA electrical licenses (check at esasafe.com), TSSA gas certifications, or valid WSIB clearances. They often provide fake business cards with out-of-province phone numbers and no fixed Ottawa address.

What Ottawa Homeowners Should Do

Never hire a contractor who shows up uninvited. If someone knocks claiming to see roof damage or driveway issues, politely decline and get a second opinion from a contractor you research independently. Legitimate contractors will provide proper licensing information, local references, and detailed written estimates without pressure.

Always verify any contractor through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) if permits are required. Check ESA licensing at licensing.esasafe.com for electrical work, and TSSA certification at tssa.org for gas work. Confirm WSIB coverage at wsib.ca/clearances.

Your Rights Under Ontario Law

Ontario's Consumer Protection Act gives you a 10-day cooling-off period for contracts signed at your home, but scammers often ignore this law entirely. They may demand immediate payment, start work without permits, or disappear after taking deposits.

If you've already signed with a door-to-door contractor, contact the City of Ottawa at 311 to report unlicensed activity, and consider contacting Ontario Consumer Protection for assistance. Remember, legitimate contractors welcome verification of their credentials and never pressure you to sign immediately.

The safest approach is always to research contractors yourself, get multiple quotes, and verify all licensing before any work begins.