Should I be worried if a contractor has no online presence?

Yes, you should be concerned if a contractor has zero online presence in 2024-2025, especially in Ottawa's competitive construction market. While it's not an automatic disqualifier, it raises several red flags that require extra due diligence on your part.

Here's what no online presence might indicate and how to protect yourself in Ottawa:

Why Online Presence Matters for Ottawa Contractors

Legitimate contractors typically have some digital footprint because they need to attract customers and demonstrate credibility. In Ottawa's market, established contractors usually have at least a basic website, Google Business listing, or social media presence to showcase their work and gather reviews.

The absence of any online presence could suggest the contractor is very new, operates primarily through word-of-mouth, or potentially isn't as established as they claim. More concerning, it might indicate they're trying to avoid leaving a digital trail of complaints or issues.

Essential Verification Steps for Ottawa Contractors

Since you can't rely on online reviews, you must verify their credentials more thoroughly. Check their ESA license at esasafe.com/contractor-locator if they do electrical work, or their TSSA certification at tssa.org for gas/HVAC work. Confirm they have valid WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances and proper liability insurance.

Contact the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 to verify they've pulled permits recently and ask if there are any outstanding issues. A contractor doing legitimate work in Ottawa should have a history of permit applications.

What to Demand for Protection

Request at least five recent local references from the past two years, preferably in your Ottawa neighborhood (whether that's Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, or elsewhere). Actually call these references and ask to see the completed work if possible. A legitimate contractor should be proud to show off their projects.

Get everything in writing with a detailed contract that includes materials specifications, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty terms. Never pay large amounts upfront - Ontario's Construction Lien Act allows for 10% holdback protection, and you should structure payments around project milestones.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be especially wary if they're soliciting door-to-door, demanding cash payments, or pressuring you to sign immediately. These are common tactics of fly-by-night operators who deliberately avoid online presence to escape accountability.

If they can't provide proper licensing, insurance documentation, or local references, walk away regardless of their price. The savings aren't worth the risk of poor work, safety issues, or having no recourse if problems arise.

Official Resources for Verification

Always verify contractor credentials through official Ontario channels: ESA for electrical (licensing.esasafe.com), TSSA for gas work (tssa.org), and WSIB for workplace coverage (wsib.ca/clearances). The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (ottawa.ca/building) can confirm their permit history and any outstanding issues.

For additional consumer protection information, check ontario.ca/consumer for your rights when hiring contractors and what to do if disputes arise.