What government agencies can help with contractor complaints in Ontario?

In Ontario, several government agencies can help with contractor complaints, with the specific agency depending on the type of issue and work involved.

Consumer Protection Ontario

The Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery handles general contractor complaints through Consumer Protection Ontario. They enforce the Consumer Protection Act and can investigate issues like:

• Misleading advertising or estimates
• Contract violations
• Door-to-door sales violations
• Failure to provide required warranties

Contact them at 1-800-889-9768 or file complaints online at ontario.ca/consumer. They can mediate disputes and, in serious cases, pursue prosecution.

Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA)

For gas, propane, boiler, or pressure vessel work, TSSA regulates contractors and can investigate complaints about:

• Unlicensed gas work
• Unsafe installations
• Code violations in HVAC systems
• Improper appliance installations

File complaints through tssa.org or call 1-877-682-8772. TSSA can order corrections, suspend licenses, and ensure safety compliance.

Electrical Safety Authority (ESA)

For electrical work complaints in Ottawa and across Ontario, ESA handles:

• Unlicensed electrical work
• Code violations
• Unsafe installations
• Permit violations

Contact ESA at 1-877-372-7233 or through esasafe.com. They can inspect work, order corrections, and take enforcement action against unlicensed contractors.

Tarion Warranty Corporation

For new home construction and major renovations covered under Ontario's new home warranty program, Tarion handles:

• Construction defects
• Delayed completion
• Warranty claims
• Builder performance issues

File claims at tarion.com or call 1-877-982-7466. Tarion can order repairs and provide compensation for covered defects.

City of Ottawa Building Code Services

For building code violations or permit issues, contact the City at 613-580-2424. They can:

• Investigate unpermitted work
• Order compliance with building codes
• Issue stop-work orders
• Require proper permits and inspections

Small Claims Court

For monetary disputes under $35,000, Ottawa's Small Claims Court (161 Elgin Street) provides an accessible option for recovering deposits, payment for defective work, or completion costs.

What to Document

Before contacting any agency, gather:

• Written contracts and estimates
• Photos of defective work
• Payment records and receipts
• Correspondence with the contractor
• Permit numbers and inspection records

The key is matching your complaint to the right agency - technical safety issues go to TSSA/ESA, consumer protection issues go to the province, and building code violations go to the City of Ottawa.