Is it normal for contractors to take weeks to provide a quote?

It's unfortunately becoming more common for contractors in Ottawa to take 2-4 weeks for quotes, especially during busy spring and summer seasons, but anything beyond a month is excessive and may signal poor business practices.

The timeline for receiving quotes in Ottawa typically depends on several factors. For simple projects like fence installation or basic repairs, you should expect a quote within 5-10 business days. More complex renovations like kitchen remodels or basement finishing often take 2-3 weeks as contractors need time to measure, source materials, and coordinate with suppliers. Major projects involving structural work or additions can legitimately take 3-4 weeks for detailed estimates.

However, the current contractor shortage in Ottawa has created a challenging market. Many reputable contractors are booked 2-6 months out, and some are being selective about which projects they quote. This has led to longer response times across the board. Spring (April-June) and late summer (August-September) are particularly busy periods when quote times extend even further.

What you should watch for are red flags that indicate unprofessional behavior rather than legitimate busy periods. If a contractor takes your information but doesn't provide any timeline for the quote, that's concerning. Similarly, if they keep pushing back promised quote dates without explanation, or if they seem disorganized during the initial site visit, these are warning signs. Good contractors will communicate their timeline upfront and stick to it, even if that timeline is several weeks out.

To protect yourself and speed up the process, always get quotes from at least three contractors. When you first contact them, ask specifically when you can expect the written quote. Verify their ESA license (for electrical work) at esasafe.com/contractor-locator and their WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances before investing time in site visits. This helps ensure you're dealing with legitimate businesses worth waiting for.

For projects requiring permits through the City of Ottawa, remember that permit processing adds 15-25 business days for most renovations, so factor this into your overall timeline. You can check current permit processing times at ottawa.ca/building or call Building Code Services at 613-580-2424.

If a contractor has taken more than a month without providing a quote or clear communication about delays, it's reasonable to follow up firmly or move on to other options. In Ottawa's competitive market, there are always other qualified contractors available, even if it means waiting a bit longer for the right fit.

The key is distinguishing between contractors who are genuinely busy with legitimate work versus those who are simply disorganized or not serious about your project.