What are the signs of a bait and switch contractor?

Bait and switch is one of the most common contractor scams in Ottawa, where contractors lure you in with an unrealistically low quote then dramatically increase costs once work begins.

Here are the key warning signs Ottawa homeowners should watch for:

The Initial Red Flags

The most obvious sign is a quote that's significantly lower than other estimates - often 30-50% below market rates. In Ottawa's current market, if you're getting bathroom renovation quotes of $8,000 when others are quoting $18,000-25,000, that's a major red flag. Legitimate contractors know current material and labor costs.

Door-to-door solicitation is another classic setup. Scammers often target Ottawa neighborhoods like Kanata, Orleans, and Barrhaven, claiming they're "working in the area" or have "leftover materials." Reputable contractors rarely need to knock on doors - they're typically booked months in advance.

During the Sales Process

Watch for contractors who pressure you to sign immediately, claiming the price is "only good today" or they need to "lock in material costs." Legitimate contractors understand that major home renovations require careful consideration and will give you reasonable time to decide.

Be suspicious of contractors who can't provide proper licensing verification. In Ontario, electrical contractors must have valid ESA licenses (check at esasafe.com/contractor-locator), gas technicians need TSSA certification (verify at tssa.org), and all should have current WSIB clearance certificates. If they dodge these requests or provide expired documentation, walk away.

The Switch Tactics

Once work begins, bait-and-switch contractors reveal the "real" costs. Common excuses include "unexpected structural issues," "code requirements we didn't anticipate," or "material price increases." While legitimate issues do arise, scammers use these as blanket justifications for doubling or tripling costs.

They often start work before getting proper City of Ottawa permits, then claim permit requirements are driving up costs. Legitimate contractors secure all necessary permits upfront and include permit fees in their initial quotes.

Payment Manipulation

These contractors typically demand large upfront payments - sometimes 50% or more - claiming they need to "secure materials." Ontario's Construction Lien Act allows for reasonable progress payments, but never more than the work completed plus materials on site. Be especially wary of contractors asking for full payment upfront.

Protecting Yourself in Ottawa

Always get at least three detailed written quotes for comparison. Legitimate quotes should include specific materials, labor costs, permit fees, and timelines. Contact the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 to verify what permits are actually required for your project.

Verify all licensing through official channels - ESA for electrical work, TSSA for gas work, and WSIB clearance for all contractors. Check references from recent Ottawa-area projects and drive by completed work if possible.

Never sign contracts under pressure, and ensure all agreements specify materials, costs, timelines, and change order procedures. Any legitimate contractor will welcome your due diligence - those who don't are showing you exactly who they are.

If you encounter a bait-and-switch scheme, contact the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services and consider filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. Your vigilance protects not just yourself, but other Ottawa homeowners from these predatory practices.