Should I hire a contractor based on their showroom or portfolio?

A showroom or portfolio should be just one factor in your contractor selection process in Ottawa - never the deciding factor alone. While these can demonstrate quality and style, they don't tell you about licensing, insurance, or how they actually treat customers.

What Portfolios and Showrooms Actually Tell You

A well-maintained portfolio shows a contractor takes pride in their work and has experience with projects similar to yours. Look for variety in their work, attention to detail in photos, and projects that match your budget range. However, remember that anyone can curate their best work or even use stock photos.

For showrooms, they indicate the contractor has invested in their business and likely has established supplier relationships. This can be particularly valuable for kitchen and bathroom renovations where you'll be selecting fixtures and finishes.

The Critical Checks That Matter More

Before being impressed by beautiful photos, verify the contractor is properly licensed and insured in Ontario. Check their ESA license at esasafe.com if they do electrical work, or their TSSA certification at tssa.org for gas work. Confirm they have valid WSIB clearance and liability insurance - ask to see current certificates.

Call the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 to verify they've successfully completed permits recently. A contractor with a great showroom but permit issues is a red flag.

Getting the Real Story

Ask for recent customer references - not just the ones they volunteer, but specifically customers from the last 6 months. Contact these references and ask about timeline adherence, cleanliness, communication, and how problems were handled. Drive by some of their recent job sites if possible.

Check their Better Business Bureau rating and search their business name online for complaints. Look them up on ontario.ca/consumer to see if there are any consumer protection issues.

What to Look for in Portfolios

Focus on projects completed in Ottawa and surrounding areas like Kanata, Orleans, or Barrhaven - this shows they understand local building codes and permit processes. Look for before-and-after photos that show problem-solving, not just pretty finished products. Ask about the timeline and budget for projects similar to yours.

Be wary of portfolios with only stock photos, no local projects, or work that seems far above or below your budget range.

The Bottom Line for Ottawa Homeowners

Use portfolios and showrooms to gauge style compatibility and quality standards, but make your hiring decision based on proper licensing, insurance, references, and detailed written estimates. A contractor with a modest portfolio but proper credentials and great references is safer than one with a stunning showroom but licensing issues.

For major renovations in Ottawa, always get multiple quotes and verify each contractor through official channels before being swayed by impressive marketing materials.