What does a general contractor do?

A general contractor in Ottawa serves as the project manager and main point of contact for your renovation or construction project, coordinating all trades, obtaining permits, and ensuring work meets Ontario Building Code requirements.

In Ottawa's construction landscape, a general contractor (GC) acts as your single source of accountability. They handle the big picture while managing all the moving pieces of your project. Here's what they actually do for Ottawa homeowners:

Project Management and Coordination
Your GC schedules and coordinates all the different trades - electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, flooring installers, painters, and more. They ensure everyone shows up when they're supposed to and that work flows logically. For example, they'll make sure the ESA-licensed electrician runs wiring before the drywall goes up, and that TSSA-certified gas technicians complete their work before final inspections.

Permit Acquisition and Code Compliance
General contractors handle the often complex process of obtaining building permits through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424). They know which projects require permits, understand the ottawa.ca/building portal system, and ensure all work meets Ontario Building Code standards. Whether you're in Kanata, Orleans, or downtown Ottawa, they navigate the same city requirements but understand neighborhood-specific considerations.

Hiring and Managing Subcontractors
Rather than you having to find, vet, and coordinate multiple specialists, your GC maintains relationships with licensed trades. They verify ESA licenses for electrical work, TSSA certifications for gas work, and ensure all subs carry proper WSIB coverage and liability insurance. This saves you from having to verify credentials for each trade separately.

Quality Control and Problem Solving
A good general contractor inspects work at each stage, catches problems early, and handles issues that inevitably arise. They're your advocate when something goes wrong and your single point of contact instead of dealing with multiple trades directly.

Material Procurement and Scheduling
GCs often have trade accounts for better pricing on materials and understand lead times. They coordinate deliveries so materials arrive when needed, not too early (taking up space) or too late (delaying work).

What to Verify When Hiring an Ottawa General Contractor
Check their WSIB clearance certificate at wsib.ca/clearances, verify they carry liability insurance, and confirm they're familiar with City of Ottawa permit processes. Ask for references from recent Ottawa-area projects and verify they understand local code requirements.

Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of contractors who can't explain the permit process, don't mention code compliance, or seem unfamiliar with ESA/TSSA requirements. Avoid those who demand large upfront payments or can't provide proper insurance documentation.

For complex renovations in Ottawa, a licensed general contractor becomes essential for navigating our city's permit requirements while ensuring quality work that meets Ontario standards.