Should I always get a written contract for renovations?

Absolutely yes - in Ontario, any construction contract over $50 must be in writing, and for renovations in Ottawa, a detailed written contract is your most important protection.

Under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act, contractors are legally required to provide written contracts for any work exceeding $50. But beyond the legal requirement, a proper contract protects you from cost overruns, scope creep, and disputes that are unfortunately common in Ottawa's renovation market.

What Your Ottawa Renovation Contract Must Include

Your written contract should specify the exact scope of work, materials (including grade and brand where relevant), timeline with start and completion dates, and total cost breakdown. In Ottawa, make sure it includes permit responsibilities - who's pulling them and paying the fees. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) requires permits for most renovation work, and you need clarity on whether your contractor handles this or if it's your responsibility.

Payment terms are crucial - never pay large amounts upfront. In Ontario, contractors cannot legally demand more than 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less, before work begins. Your contract should outline a payment schedule tied to completion milestones, not calendar dates. Always include the mandatory 10% holdback required under Ontario's Construction Lien Act - this money is held for 60 days after substantial completion to protect against liens.

Ottawa-Specific Contract Essentials

Include your contractor's business license number, WSIB clearance certificate number, and insurance policy details. For electrical work, verify their ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) license number in the contract - you can check this at esasafe.com/contractor-locator. For gas or HVAC work, ensure they're TSSA certified and include their certification number.

The contract should specify who's responsible for cleanup, disposal, and any damage to existing structures. In Ottawa's older neighborhoods like the Glebe or Westboro, this is especially important as unexpected issues often arise in heritage homes.

Red Flags to Avoid

Never sign a contract with blank spaces to be "filled in later" or vague language like "as needed" for materials or timeline. Avoid contractors who pressure you to sign immediately or who showed up unsolicited at your door. Legitimate Ottawa contractors understand you need time to review contracts and get multiple quotes.

Be wary of contracts that demand full payment upfront or don't include the mandatory Consumer Protection Act cancellation period - you have 10 days to cancel most contracts in Ontario without penalty.

Official Resources and Protection

Keep copies of everything and ensure your contractor provides their business registration, insurance certificates, and any required licensing documentation. If disputes arise, contact the Ontario Consumer Protection Office at ontario.ca/consumer or call 1-800-889-9768.

For permit-related questions specific to your Ottawa project, contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building. A written contract isn't just smart business - it's your legal protection in Ontario's construction industry.