Recently Asked Questions
Browse the latest questions from Ottawa homeowners.
What is the best time of year to hire a contractor?
The best time to hire contractors in Ottawa is during the "shoulder seasons" - late fall through early spring (November-...
What should I ask a contractor before hiring them?
Before hiring any contractor in Ottawa, you need to verify their licensing, insurance, and track record - this protects...
What should I ask a contractor before hiring them?
Before hiring any contractor in Ottawa, you need to verify their licensing, insurance, and track record to protect yours...
When is the best time of year to find a contractor?
The best time to find a contractor in Ottawa is during the "shoulder seasons" - late fall through early spring (November...
When is the best time of year to find a contractor?
The best time to find and hire a contractor in Ottawa is during the winter months (December through February), when dema...
When is the best time of year to find a contractor?
The best time to find and hire contractors in Ottawa is during the shoulder seasons - late fall through early spring (No...
Who should I choose as my contractor in Ottawa?
The right contractor for your Ottawa project depends on your specific needs, but here's exactly how to find and choose a...
How do I find a reputable contractor in Ottawa?
Finding a reputable contractor in Ottawa requires checking multiple verification points through official Ontario and Cit...
How do I resolve a dispute with my contractor?
If you're having a dispute with your contractor in Ottawa, start with direct communication in writing, then escalate thr...
What does a workmanship warranty cover?
In Ottawa, a workmanship warranty covers defects in the contractor's installation, craftsmanship, and labor - but unders...
How do I handle a contractor who won't return my calls?
When a contractor stops returning calls in Ottawa, you need to act quickly to protect your project and your money. This...
Can I be held responsible if a contractor's subcontractor is injured?
Yes, as an Ottawa homeowner, you can potentially be held responsible for subcontractor injuries on your property, but th...
Should I always get a written contract for renovations?
Absolutely yes - in Ontario, any home improvement contract over $50 must be in writing, and for renovations in Ottawa, a...
Should I be worried if a contractor asks for full payment upfront?
Yes, you should be very concerned if an Ottawa contractor asks for full payment upfront - this is one of the biggest red...
What is the holdback requirement under the Construction Lien Act?
Under Ontario's Construction Lien Act, property owners in Ottawa must hold back 10% of the value of work completed until...
How do I recover money from a fraudulent contractor?
If you've been defrauded by a contractor in Ottawa, you have several legal avenues to recover your money, but acting qui...
How do I find a reliable contractor for my basement renovation in Ottawa?
Finding a reliable basement contractor in Ottawa requires verifying their licensing, checking references, and ensuring t...
What should I do if a contractor pressures me to sign immediately?
Never sign a contract under pressure - legitimate contractors in Ottawa understand you need time to review and won't rus...
How long does it take to get a building permit in Ottawa?
Building permit timelines in Ottawa typically range from 10 business days for simple projects to 8+ weeks for complex re...
What is a rough-in inspection and when is it needed?
A rough-in inspection in Ottawa is a mandatory building inspection that occurs after the "rough" installation of electri...
Can a contractor charge for work not in the original contract?
In Ontario, contractors cannot charge for work not in the original contract without your written approval - but there ar...
How many inspections does a kitchen renovation require?
Kitchen renovations in Ottawa typically require 2-4 inspections depending on the scope of work, with electrical and plum...
What are the height restrictions for additions in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, residential additions are typically limited to a maximum height of 11 meters (36 feet) for most residential z...
How do I spot a bad contractor before hiring them?
Red flags when hiring contractors in Ottawa include unlicensed work, door-to-door solicitation, demands for full payment...
What is the difference between a fixed price and a cost plus contract?
In Ottawa construction projects, fixed price contracts give you a set total cost upfront, while cost plus contracts char...
Can I withhold payment if the work is not done properly?
Yes, in Ontario you can withhold payment for defective work, but you must follow specific legal procedures to protect yo...
Can I recover legal fees in a contractor dispute in Ontario?
In Ontario, you generally cannot recover legal fees in contractor disputes unless there's a specific contract clause all...
Can I sue my contractor for poor work in Ontario?
Yes, you can sue your contractor for poor work in Ontario, but there are several steps you should take first that may re...
What happens if a subcontractor puts a lien on my property?
If a subcontractor puts a lien on your Ottawa property, you could lose your home if the debt isn't resolved - but Ontari...
How much liability insurance should my contractor carry?
In Ottawa, your contractor should carry a minimum of $2 million in general liability insurance, though many reputable co...
What is a mechanical contractor and when do I need one?
A mechanical contractor in Ottawa specializes in heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and plumbing systems - a...
How do I document problems with my contractor's work?
Document everything immediately and systematically - in Ottawa, proper documentation is your strongest protection under...
Should I be suspicious of contractors offering huge discounts?
Yes, you should be very suspicious of contractors in Ottawa offering huge discounts - legitimate contractors rarely need...
How much does an ESA permit cost in Ontario?
ESA electrical permits in Ontario typically cost between $100-$300 depending on the scope of work, with inspection fees...
What permits do I need for a basement apartment in Ottawa?
For a basement apartment in Ottawa, you'll need both a building permit and zoning compliance approval from the City of O...
Is there a contractor licensing board I can complain to in Ontario?
In Ontario, there is no single contractor licensing board, but you have several official complaint options depending on...
What happens if a contractor damages my neighbor's property?
If a contractor damages your neighbor's property while working on your home in Ottawa, the contractor's liability insura...
What happens if a contractor abandons my project midway?
If a contractor abandons your project in Ottawa, you have several legal protections and immediate steps to take under On...
What should I look for when hiring a contractor in Ottawa?
When hiring a contractor in Ottawa, focus on verifying their licenses, insurance, and permits first - this protects you...
Can my contractor help me apply for renovation rebates?
Yes, many Ottawa contractors can help you apply for renovation rebates, but it's important to understand what they can a...
What happens if my renovation fails a building inspection?
If your renovation fails a building inspection in Ottawa, you'll receive a written notice detailing the deficiencies tha...
Is a verbal agreement with a contractor legally binding?
Yes, verbal agreements with contractors are legally binding in Ontario, but they're extremely difficult to prove and enf...
What are the fence bylaws in Ottawa?
Ottawa has specific fence bylaws that vary by property location and fence height, with most residential fences under 2 m...
How do I protect myself financially when hiring a contractor?
Protecting yourself financially when hiring a contractor in Ottawa requires following Ontario's Construction Lien Act ho...
Do I need a building permit to finish my basement in Ottawa?
Yes, you need a building permit to finish your basement in Ottawa. The City of Ottawa requires permits for basement fini...
What is the best time of year to hire a contractor in Ottawa?
The best time to hire a contractor in Ottawa is during the "shoulder seasons" - late fall through early spring (November...
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 s...
Do I need a permit to replace my fence in Ottawa?
Yes, you need a building permit to replace a fence in Ottawa if it's over 2 meters (6.6 feet) high, or if you're buildin...
Can I appeal a failed building inspection in Ottawa?
Yes, you can appeal a failed building inspection in Ottawa through the City's formal appeal process, but you'll need to...
Is it a red flag if a quote is way lower than others?
Yes, a significantly lower quote is often a major red flag when hiring contractors in Ottawa. While everyone loves savin...
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