Should I ask my contractor for a warranty on their work?

Absolutely yes - in Ontario, you're legally entitled to warranties on construction work, and reputable Ottawa contractors will provide clear warranty terms upfront.

Under Ontario's Construction Lien Act and consumer protection laws, contractors must warrant their work against defects in materials and workmanship. However, getting this in writing protects both you and clarifies exactly what's covered.

What Ottawa Contractors Should Provide

Most professional contractors in Ottawa will offer:

• Workmanship warranty: 1-2 years covering installation defects, poor craftsmanship, or work that doesn't meet Ontario Building Code standards


• Materials warranty: Varies by product - flooring might be 5-25 years, while fixtures could be 1-10 years


• Structural work: Often 2-5 years for foundations, framing, major renovations

For specialized trades, expect specific coverage:

• Electrical work: ESA-licensed contractors typically warrant for 1 year minimum, with some offering 2-3 years


• Plumbing: 1-2 years on installation, with manufacturer warranties on fixtures


• HVAC: Installation warranty 1-2 years, equipment warranties from manufacturers (5-15 years typical)


• Roofing: Often 2-5 years on installation, 15-50 years on materials

What Should Be In Writing

Your contract should specify:

• Exact warranty period for different components


• What's covered (materials vs. workmanship vs. both)


• Response time for warranty calls


• Who handles manufacturer warranty claims


• Any maintenance requirements to keep warranty valid

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if an Ottawa contractor:

• Refuses to provide any warranty


• Offers only verbal promises


• Provides warranty periods significantly shorter than industry standard


• Won't specify what's covered


• Requires full payment before work completion (proper holdback protects your warranty rights)

Your Protection Beyond Contractor Warranties

Remember that in Ontario, you have additional protections:

• 10% holdback: Keep 10% of contract value for 60 days after substantial completion under the Construction Lien Act


• WSIB coverage: Verify contractor has active WSIB clearance


• Licensing verification: Check ESA licenses for electrical, TSSA for gas work


• City of Ottawa permits: Ensure proper permits were pulled - this protects you if issues arise

Getting the Most From Warranties

When hiring contractors in Ottawa:

• Ask about warranty terms during the quoting process


• Get warranty details in your written contract before signing


• Keep all documentation, photos, and receipts


• Report issues promptly - don't wait until warranty expires


• Understand that normal wear-and-tear isn't covered

Quality contractors view warranties as a competitive advantage and sign of confidence in their work. If someone balks at providing reasonable warranty terms, that's often a sign to look elsewhere.

For major renovations requiring City of Ottawa permits, your permit documentation also provides protection - inspected work must meet Ontario Building Code standards regardless of warranty terms.