Should my contractor provide a project schedule?

Yes, absolutely! A reputable contractor in Ottawa should provide you with a detailed project schedule as part of their professional service, and it's actually required for larger projects under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act.

When you're hiring contractors in Ottawa, a proper project schedule protects both you and the contractor by setting clear expectations. For any project over $50 in Ontario, contractors must provide written contracts that include timelines, and for home improvement contracts over $50, this falls under the Consumer Protection Act which gives you specific rights.

What Your Ottawa Contractor's Schedule Should Include

Your project schedule should outline major phases with realistic timeframes. For example, if you're doing a bathroom renovation in Ottawa, it might show: demolition (2-3 days), rough plumbing/electrical (3-4 days waiting for City of Ottawa and ESA inspections), drywall and tiling (5-7 days), and final fixtures (2-3 days). The schedule should account for inspection periods since Ottawa building permits typically require 48-hour notice for inspections.

The schedule must also include permit timelines specific to Ottawa. Simple renovation permits take 15-25 business days to process through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424), while more complex projects can take 4-8 weeks. Your contractor should factor this into their start date and not begin work until permits are approved.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious of Ottawa contractors who refuse to provide schedules or give vague timelines like "it'll take a few weeks." Professional contractors understand that Ottawa's permit processes, ESA electrical inspections, and TSSA gas inspections all have specific timing requirements that must be built into realistic schedules.

Also watch for contractors who promise unrealistic timelines. A complete kitchen renovation in Ottawa typically takes 4-8 weeks once permits are in hand, not the "10 days" some fly-by-night operators promise. Weather delays, inspection scheduling, and permit processing are real factors in Ottawa that legitimate contractors account for.

Your Protection Under Ontario Law

Under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act, you have the right to cancel home improvement contracts within 10 days if the contractor fails to provide required written information, including timelines. For projects requiring building permits in Ottawa, contractors must also provide you with permit numbers and inspection schedules.

Getting the Right Schedule

When vetting contractors through the ESA contractor locator (esasafe.com) or checking their WSIB clearance, also ask to see sample schedules from recent projects. Experienced Ottawa contractors will readily show you how they plan around City of Ottawa inspection requirements and seasonal considerations.

A detailed schedule isn't just professional courtesy - it's your protection against contractors who take on too many jobs or don't understand Ottawa's regulatory requirements. Make sure any contract includes schedule updates and communication protocols when delays occur.

For help finding contractors who provide proper scheduling and documentation, check verified professionals in our Ottawa contractor directory.