What is the cooling off period for contractor contracts in Ontario?

In Ontario, there is NO automatic cooling-off period for contractor contracts, unlike some consumer purchases. Once you sign a contract with a contractor in Ottawa or anywhere in Ontario, you are generally legally bound to that agreement immediately.

However, there are some important exceptions and protections you should know about:

Door-to-Door Sales Exception

If a contractor comes to your door unsolicited and you sign a contract worth more than $50, Ontario's Consumer Protection Act gives you a 10-day cooling-off period. This applies to contractors who show up unannounced offering services like roofing, driveway sealing, or home improvements. You can cancel within 10 days by giving written notice to the contractor.

What This Means for Ottawa Homeowners

Since most legitimate contractor relationships start with you reaching out for quotes - not them knocking on your door - the cooling-off protection rarely applies. When you call contractors for estimates on your kitchen renovation or basement finishing project, you won't have a cooling-off period once you sign.

This is why it's crucial to take your time before signing any contract. Don't let contractors pressure you with "sign today" tactics. Legitimate contractors will give you time to review the contract, check their ESA license at esasafe.com, verify their WSIB clearance, and get multiple quotes.

Protecting Yourself Without a Cooling-Off Period

Before signing any contract in Ottawa, always:

Verify the contractor's licenses through ESA (electrical) or TSSA (gas/HVAC) if applicable. Check their WSIB clearance certificate and liability insurance. Ensure they have proper City of Ottawa permits for your project - call 613-580-2424 to verify if needed. Review the contract carefully, including payment schedule, materials specifications, and completion timeline. Never pay large amounts upfront - Ontario's Construction Lien Act allows you to hold back 10% for 60 days after completion.

If You Need to Cancel

Without a cooling-off period, your options are limited to what's written in the contract itself. Some contracts may include cancellation clauses with penalties. If the contractor hasn't started work and you have a legitimate reason (like discovering they're unlicensed), you may have grounds to void the contract.

For disputes, contact the Ontario Consumer Protection office or consult with a legal professional. The key is prevention - take time upfront to verify credentials and review contracts thoroughly before signing.

Remember, reputable contractors in Ottawa won't pressure you to sign immediately. If someone is pushing for an instant signature, that's a red flag to walk away.