What is a mechanical contractor and when do I need one?

A mechanical contractor in Ottawa specializes in heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and plumbing systems - and you'll need one for any work involving furnaces, air conditioning, ductwork, or major plumbing installations that require permits.

In Ottawa and Ontario, mechanical contractors must hold proper TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) certifications to work on gas appliances, boilers, and HVAC systems. For gas work specifically, they need G1 (basic gas fitting) or G2 (advanced gas systems) certification, which you can verify at tssa.org.

When You Need a Mechanical Contractor in Ottawa

You'll need a licensed mechanical contractor for projects like installing or replacing furnaces, central air conditioning systems, heat pumps, boilers, or major ductwork modifications. If you're converting from oil to gas heating, doing a whole-home HVAC upgrade, or installing a gas fireplace, these require both TSSA-certified technicians and City of Ottawa building permits.

For plumbing, mechanical contractors handle major installations like new water lines, sewer connections, or whole-home re-piping. Simple repairs like fixing a leaky faucet typically don't require permits, but adding new bathrooms, moving plumbing lines, or installing new water heaters do require permits through ottawa.ca/building.

Ottawa Permit Requirements

Most mechanical work requires permits from the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424). HVAC installations typically cost $200-500 in permit fees and take 15-25 business days to process. Gas work also requires separate TSSA permits and inspections, usually costing $100-200 additional.

What to Verify When Hiring

Always confirm your mechanical contractor has current TSSA certification for the specific work type - gas contractors need G1/G2 tickets, while HVAC contractors need appropriate refrigeration handling certificates. Check their WSIB clearance certificate at wsib.ca/clearances and verify they carry liability insurance of at least $2 million.

Be wary of contractors who offer to skip permits or claim permits aren't needed for furnace replacements or gas work - this is a major red flag. All gas appliance installations require TSSA permits and inspections for safety and insurance compliance.

Getting Quotes

Expect mechanical contractors to provide detailed quotes breaking down equipment, labor, permits, and inspection fees. For furnace replacements in Ottawa, total costs typically range $4,000-8,000 including permits and installation. Major HVAC system upgrades can range $8,000-20,000+ depending on home size and system complexity.

The contractor should handle all permit applications and coordinate required inspections. Under Ontario's Construction Lien Act, hold back 10% of payments for 60 days after substantial completion to protect against liens.

For verified mechanical contractors in Ottawa, check our directory at ottawaconstructionnetwork.com/directory where all contractors have been pre-screened for proper licensing and insurance.