Should I get copies of all permits when the job is done?

Absolutely yes - you should always get copies of all permits and final inspection certificates when your project is completed. This is crucial documentation that you'll need for insurance claims, future renovations, and when selling your home in Ottawa.

What Documents to Collect

When your contractor finishes the job, make sure you receive copies of:

Building Permits and Inspections:

• Original building permit from City of Ottawa


• All inspection reports (framing, insulation, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, final inspection)


• Final occupancy certificate or completion letter


• Any variance approvals or drawings submitted

• ESA electrical permit


• Certificate of Inspection from ESA


• Electrical Safety Certificate showing code compliance


• Any electrical drawings or load calculations

• TSSA permit for gas work


• Gas installation certificate


• HVAC equipment compliance certificates


• Any ventilation or combustion air calculations

Why This Documentation Matters

For Insurance: Your insurance company may require proof of permitted work if you ever file a claim. Unpermitted work can void coverage or reduce payouts.

For Resale: Ottawa home buyers and their lawyers routinely ask for permit documentation. Missing permits can delay or kill a sale, or force you to get expensive retroactive permits.

For Future Work: The next contractor will need to see what's behind your walls. Proper permit records show exactly what was done and to what code standards.

For Warranty Claims: If something goes wrong, permit documentation proves the work was done to code and inspected properly.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be concerned if your contractor:

• Says permits aren't needed when they clearly are


• Promises to "handle the paperwork later"


• Can't provide permit numbers during the job


• Rushes you to final payment without showing inspection certificates


• Claims inspections "aren't required" for your type of work

Getting Your Documents

During the Project: Ask your contractor for permit numbers so you can track inspections yourself on ottawa.ca/building or by calling 613-580-2424.

At Project Completion: Don't make final payment until you have all documentation in hand. A legitimate contractor will have these readily available.

If Documents Are Missing: You can request copies from City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) using your address and approximate permit dates. There may be small fees for copies.

Pro Tip for Ottawa Homeowners

Create a "house file" with all permit documentation, warranties, and inspection certificates. Store both physical and digital copies. When you sell your Ottawa home, your real estate lawyer will thank you for having everything organized and readily available.

Remember: In Ottawa's competitive housing market, having complete permit documentation can actually add value to your home and speed up the sale process.