Should I hire an interior designer for my renovation?

Whether to hire an interior designer for your Ottawa renovation depends on your project's complexity, budget, and your comfort level with design decisions - but the key is ensuring any designer you hire works well with your chosen contractor.

Here at OCN, we focus on the contractor hiring process rather than specific design advice, but this question touches on an important aspect of managing your renovation team in Ottawa.

Working with Designers and Contractors

If you're considering an interior designer, discuss this early in your contractor selection process. Some Ottawa contractors work regularly with specific designers and have established workflows, while others prefer to work directly with homeowners. Ask potential contractors during your vetting process:

• Do they have experience working with interior designers?
• How do they handle design changes during construction?
• Who manages communication between all parties?
• How are design-related change orders handled?

Permit and Code Considerations

Remember that in Ottawa, your contractor is ultimately responsible for ensuring all work meets Ontario Building Code requirements, regardless of what a designer specifies. When getting quotes, make sure contractors account for:

• Any structural changes the design requires (may need engineer approval)
• Electrical changes requiring ESA permits and Licensed Electrical Contractor
• Plumbing relocations requiring permits through City of Ottawa Building Services (613-580-2424)
• HVAC modifications requiring TSSA-certified technicians

Protecting Yourself in the Process

If you do hire a designer, ensure your contractor contract clearly outlines:

• How design changes will be priced and approved


• Who has final authority on code compliance issues


• Timeline impacts if design decisions are delayed


• Payment schedules that account for design phases

The most important thing is having a licensed, insured contractor who can execute whatever design you choose while meeting all Ottawa building requirements and obtaining proper permits through ottawa.ca/building.

For specific design advice and inspiration, you'll want to consult resources focused on interior design and renovation planning. Here at OCN, we help ensure you're working with qualified, licensed professionals who can bring any design vision to life safely and legally in Ottawa.