What should be included in a contractor's quote?

A proper contractor quote in Ottawa should include detailed breakdowns of materials, labor, permits, and timeline - never accept a vague "total price only" estimate.

When evaluating contractor quotes in Ottawa, you need comprehensive documentation that protects both you and ensures the project meets Ontario Building Code requirements. Here's exactly what should be included:

Essential Quote Components

Project Description and Scope: The quote must clearly describe all work being performed, including specific areas of your Ottawa home, materials to be removed, and new installations. Vague descriptions like "bathroom renovation" aren't sufficient - you need details like "remove existing tile, install new subfloor, waterproof shower area per OBC requirements."

Detailed Material Breakdown: Every material should be listed with quantities, specifications, and unit costs. This includes everything from lumber grades to fixture model numbers. In Ottawa's climate, ensure materials are rated for our temperature extremes. The quote should specify who purchases materials - contractor or homeowner - as this affects warranty coverage.

Labor Costs and Timeline: Separate labor costs from materials, with estimated hours or days for each phase. Include start and completion dates, accounting for Ottawa's construction season limitations. Winter work may require additional heating costs or extended timelines.

Permit and Inspection Costs: The quote must identify all required City of Ottawa permits and associated fees. Current Ottawa permit fees range from $100-300 for simple projects to $500-2000+ for major renovations. Include ESA electrical permits (~$100-200) and TSSA gas permits if applicable. The contractor should handle permit applications unless specifically agreed otherwise.

Licensing and Insurance Information

Contractor Credentials: The quote should include the contractor's business license number, WSIB account number, and liability insurance details. For electrical work, verify their ESA License Electrical Contractor (LEC) number. For gas work, confirm TSSA G1/G2 certification. You can verify these through esasafe.com and tssa.org.

Payment Schedule: Ontario's Construction Lien Act requires specific payment structures. The quote should outline payment milestones tied to work completion, not arbitrary dates. Final payment (typically 10%) should be held back for 60 days after substantial completion to protect against liens.

What to Watch For

Red Flags in Quotes: Be wary of quotes lacking permit costs (suggests under-the-table work), requesting large upfront payments, or missing insurance information. Door-to-door contractors often provide inadequate quotes. Legitimate Ottawa contractors understand local permit requirements and include them automatically.

Warranty Information: The quote should specify warranty terms for both labor and materials. Ontario's Consumer Protection Act provides certain protections, but written warranties offer additional security.

Change Order Process: The quote should explain how additional work or changes will be handled, including approval processes and pricing methods.

Getting Multiple Quotes

Obtain at least three quotes for comparison, ensuring each contractor visits your Ottawa property in person. Phone or online estimates are rarely accurate. Allow 1-2 weeks for detailed quotes on complex projects.

For verification of contractor licensing and to find pre-screened professionals in Ottawa, check the City of Ottawa's building permit records and ESA/TSSA databases. A proper quote demonstrates the contractor's professionalism and understanding of Ottawa's regulatory requirements - it's your first indication of whether they'll handle your project correctly.