Should I visit a contractor's previous job sites?

Yes, visiting a contractor's previous job sites is one of the most valuable steps you can take when hiring in Ottawa - and any reputable contractor should be happy to arrange this.

A quality contractor will have a portfolio of recent work they're proud to show off, and many will proactively offer to connect you with past clients. This gives you the chance to see their craftsmanship firsthand and hear honest feedback about their work quality, timeliness, and professionalism.

What to Look for During Site Visits

When visiting previous projects around Ottawa, examine the quality of finishes, attention to detail, and how well the work has held up over time. Pay attention to things like straight lines, even gaps, proper caulking, and overall cleanliness of the installation. If you're looking at exterior work, check for proper flashing, weatherproofing, and how well materials have weathered Ottawa's harsh winters.

Ask the homeowners about their experience - were permits pulled properly? Did the contractor show up when promised? How did they handle unexpected issues? Were they respectful of the property and neighbors? Did they clean up properly each day?

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious of contractors who refuse to provide references or seem hesitant about showing previous work. This could indicate quality issues, unhappy customers, or worse - that they don't have legitimate previous projects to show. In Ottawa's tight-knit neighborhoods, word travels fast about both good and bad contractors.

Also be wary if they only show you photos rather than actual sites you can visit, or if their "recent" work is all from several years ago. A busy, quality contractor should have multiple recent projects they can reference.

How to Arrange Visits

Ask potential contractors for 3-5 references from jobs completed in the last 12-18 months, ideally similar to your project scope. Request a mix of recent completions and some that are 6-12 months old so you can see how the work has held up. Many Ottawa contractors work repeatedly in neighborhoods like Kanata, Orleans, or Barrhaven, so you might even be able to drive by exterior work to get a quick sense of quality.

When contacting references, be respectful of their time and ask if a brief visit would be convenient. Most homeowners who had a positive experience are happy to help others avoid bad contractors.

Verify the Basics Too

While you're evaluating their work quality, don't forget to verify their ESA license at esasafe.com if electrical work is involved, check TSSA certification for gas work at tssa.org, and confirm they pulled proper permits through the City of Ottawa at ottawa.ca/building. A contractor doing quality work should have all their paperwork in order.

Taking time for site visits might seem like extra work, but it's one of your best protections against hiring someone who cuts corners or overpromises. In Ottawa's competitive market, the best contractors understand that their previous work is their best advertisement.