What home maintenance should I do in spring?

That's a great home maintenance question! For specific seasonal maintenance advice and DIY tips, check out resources focused on home maintenance and property care. Here at OCN, we focus on helping you find and work with the right contractors for your maintenance and repair needs.

However, I can help you understand when you'll need permits or licensed contractors for common spring maintenance tasks in Ottawa:

Electrical Work: If your spring maintenance reveals electrical issues (outdoor outlets, panel upgrades, new circuits), you'll need a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) in Ontario. All electrical work requires ESA permits and inspections. You can verify contractors at esasafe.com/contractor-locator.

HVAC System Servicing: While basic filter changes are DIY, any gas appliance work, ductwork modifications, or HVAC repairs require TSSA-certified technicians (G1/G2 certification). Check technician credentials at tssa.org.

Structural Repairs: If you discover foundation issues, roof damage, or structural problems during spring inspections, these typically require City of Ottawa building permits. Contact Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building to determine permit requirements.

Deck and Fence Repairs: Major deck repairs or replacements in Ottawa require building permits (typically $100-300, 10-15 business days processing). Simple maintenance like staining or minor board replacement doesn't require permits.

Roofing Work: Roof repairs beyond simple shingle replacement may require permits in Ottawa, especially if structural work is involved. Always verify your contractor has WSIB clearance and proper insurance before any roofing work.

What to Watch For: Spring is prime season for door-to-door scammers offering maintenance services. Never hire contractors who show up unsolicited. Always verify licensing, get written quotes, and check references before hiring anyone for maintenance work that requires permits or specialized skills.

For specific maintenance checklists and DIY guidance, home maintenance resources will serve you better than our contractor-focused expertise here at OCN.