Should I hire a contractor who is booked months in advance?

In Ottawa's construction market, a contractor booked months in advance is often a positive sign, but you need to verify they're worth the wait and protect yourself during the extended timeline.

The best contractors in Ottawa typically have 2-6 month booking schedules, especially for spring and summer work. This usually indicates strong reputation, quality work, and repeat customers. However, booking far in advance requires extra due diligence on your part.

Verification Steps for Busy Contractors

First, confirm their credentials are current and will remain valid when your project starts. Check their ESA license at esasafe.com if doing electrical work, verify TSSA certification at tssa.org for gas/HVAC work, and ensure their WSIB clearance certificate won't expire during your project timeline. A legitimate busy contractor will readily provide these documents.

Contact the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 to verify they've successfully completed recent permit applications. Ask the contractor for references from jobs completed in the last 6 months, not just their oldest testimonials. Drive by recent project sites in your Ottawa neighborhood if possible.

Red Flags During Long Booking Periods

Be cautious if they demand large upfront payments months before starting - legitimate contractors typically request minimal deposits for scheduling. Avoid contractors who won't provide a detailed written timeline or seem vague about when permits will be pulled. In Ottawa's market, established contractors should be able to give you specific start dates and project phases.

Watch for contractors who claim to be "booked solid" but can start immediately if you pay extra - this often indicates desperation rather than success. Similarly, be wary of those who won't commit to written contracts until closer to start date, as material costs and availability can change significantly over months.

Protecting Yourself During Wait Times

Lock in your contract with specific start dates, material allowances, and completion timelines. Include penalty clauses for delays beyond reasonable weather or permit issues. For major renovations in Ottawa, ensure the contract specifies that permits will be pulled at least 2-3 weeks before work begins, as City of Ottawa processing takes 15-25 business days for most renovation permits.

Consider requiring the contractor to provide updated WSIB clearance and insurance certificates 30 days before starting. This protects you if their coverage lapses during the waiting period.

Ottawa Market Reality

Quality contractors doing kitchen renovations ($25,000-$80,000), bathroom remodels ($15,000-$50,000), or basement finishing ($40-$80/sq ft) in Ottawa neighborhoods like Kanata, Orleans, or Barrhaven often book 3-4 months ahead during peak season. This is normal market behavior, not necessarily a red flag.

The key is ensuring their reputation justifies the wait and that you're protected throughout the extended timeline. A contractor worth waiting for will be transparent about their schedule, provide solid references, and offer detailed contracts that protect both parties during the waiting period.