What does a general contractor actually do on a renovation project?

A general contractor in Ottawa serves as your project manager and coordinator, overseeing all aspects of your renovation from permits to final cleanup while ensuring compliance with Ontario Building Code and City of Ottawa requirements.

The general contractor is essentially the quarterback of your renovation project. They coordinate all the moving pieces, manage timelines, and ensure everything meets local building standards. In Ottawa's regulatory environment, this role becomes even more critical because of our specific permit requirements and inspection processes.

Project Management and Coordination

Your general contractor starts by developing a comprehensive project plan and timeline. They break down your renovation into phases, coordinate when different trades need to be on-site, and manage the sequence of work. For example, they ensure electrical rough-in happens before drywall, and that City of Ottawa inspections are scheduled at the right milestones.

They also handle all the logistics - ordering materials, arranging deliveries, managing waste disposal, and ensuring your home remains as livable as possible during construction. In Ottawa's climate, they also plan around weather constraints and seasonal considerations that can affect timelines.

Permit and Regulatory Compliance

One of the most valuable services a general contractor provides in Ottawa is navigating our permit and inspection processes. They pull building permits through the City of Ottawa's building portal (ottawa.ca/building), coordinate ESA permits for electrical work, and arrange TSSA permits for gas-related modifications.

They know which renovations require permits in Ottawa - like bathroom relocations, structural changes, or finishing basements - and ensure all work meets Ontario Building Code standards. They schedule mandatory inspections at proper intervals and address any deficiencies identified by City inspectors.

Subcontractor Management

General contractors hire, coordinate, and supervise all specialized trades - electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, flooring installers, painters, and others. They verify that all subcontractors carry proper licensing (ESA for electrical, TSSA for gas work), WSIB clearance, and liability insurance.

This is crucial protection for Ottawa homeowners because you're not responsible for managing multiple contractor relationships or verifying each trade's credentials. The general contractor ensures all work meets professional standards and coordinates between trades to prevent conflicts or delays.

Quality Control and Problem Resolution

Throughout your project, the general contractor monitors work quality, ensures materials meet specifications, and addresses any issues that arise. They conduct regular site inspections, coordinate with you on decisions, and manage change orders if project scope evolves.

When problems occur - and they often do in renovations - your general contractor handles resolution. Whether it's coordinating warranty work, addressing deficiencies, or managing unexpected structural discoveries, they serve as your advocate and problem-solver.

Financial Management

General contractors manage project budgets, process payments to subcontractors, and handle the financial flow of your renovation. In Ontario, they're required to follow Construction Lien Act provisions, including proper holdback procedures (typically 10% held for 60 days after substantial completion).

They provide detailed estimates, manage change orders, and help you understand where your renovation dollars are going. This financial oversight helps prevent cost overruns and ensures proper payment procedures that protect you from potential liens.

When hiring a general contractor in Ottawa, verify their WSIB clearance, liability insurance, and references from recent local projects. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) can also provide guidance on permit requirements for your specific project.

A qualified general contractor transforms what could be a chaotic, stressful renovation into a managed, professional process that delivers quality results while protecting your investment and ensuring regulatory compliance.