What are common contractor scams in Ottawa?

Ottawa homeowners face several common contractor scams, from door-to-door "roof inspectors" to unlicensed workers offering cash deals. Here's what to watch for and how to protect yourself in our market.

Door-to-Door Roof and Driveway Scams

These are particularly common in Ottawa neighborhoods like Kanata, Orleans, and Barrhaven. Scammers knock on doors claiming they "noticed damage" to your roof or driveway while "working in the area." They pressure you to sign immediately, often demanding large upfront payments. Legitimate roofing contractors don't typically solicit door-to-door, and any real damage assessment should be done through your insurance company first.

The "Cash Only" Red Flag

Contractors insisting on cash payments are almost always operating without proper licensing or insurance. In Ontario, legitimate contractors carry WSIB coverage (verify at wsib.ca/clearances), liability insurance, and proper trade licenses. Cash-only operators can't provide these protections, leaving you liable for workplace injuries and with no recourse for poor work.

Unlicensed Electrical and Gas Work

This is particularly dangerous in Ottawa's older neighborhoods like the Glebe, Westboro, and Sandy Hill where homes often need electrical updates. Scammers offer "cheap" electrical work without ESA permits or licensing. All electrical work in Ontario requires ESA permits and must be done by Licensed Electrical Contractors (LEC). Verify any electrician at licensing.esasafe.com before hiring. Similarly, gas work requires TSSA certification - check at tssa.org.

Permit Avoidance Schemes

Some contractors suggest skipping permits to "save money and time." This is illegal and costly. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) requires permits for most renovations. Unpermitted work can:

• Void your insurance coverage


• Create problems when selling your home


• Result in expensive tear-out and redo orders


• Leave you without legal protections

The "Storm Chaser" Phenomenon

After severe weather events common in Ottawa (ice storms, windstorms, hail), out-of-province contractors flood the area offering quick repairs. They often lack Ontario licensing, proper insurance, and disappear once paid. Always verify contractors are established locally and properly licensed before signing anything.

Advance Payment Scams

Legitimate contractors in Ottawa typically request minimal upfront payments - usually just enough to secure materials. Be suspicious of anyone demanding:

• Full payment upfront


• Payment before work begins


• Cash payments to "avoid taxes"


• Payments to secure your "spot" in their schedule

Under Ontario's Construction Lien Act, you should hold back 10% of payments for 60 days after substantial completion to protect against liens.

How to Protect Yourself

Always verify contractors through official channels:

• Check ESA licensing at esasafe.com/contractor-locator


• Verify TSSA certification at tssa.org


• Confirm WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances


• Get multiple written quotes


• Ensure all permits are pulled through ottawa.ca/building


• Never sign contracts under pressure

For electrical work, only hire Licensed Electrical Contractors. For gas work, ensure TSSA G1 or G2 certification. For general contracting, verify business registration and insurance coverage.

If you encounter suspected contractor fraud, report it to:

• City of Ottawa By-law Services: 3-1-1


• Ontario Consumer Protection: ontario.ca/consumer


• Better Business Bureau Ottawa


• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: 1-888-495-8501

Remember, legitimate contractors welcome verification of their credentials and won't pressure you to sign immediately. Take time to research, get multiple quotes, and verify all licensing before proceeding with any home improvement project in Ottawa.