What should I ask a contractor before hiring them?

Before hiring any contractor in Ottawa, you need to verify their licensing, insurance, and track record - this protects you from liability and ensures quality work that meets Ontario Building Code requirements.

Start with the legal essentials that are mandatory in Ontario. Ask to see their WSIB clearance certificate - this protects you from liability if someone gets injured on your property. You can verify this at wsib.ca/clearances using their account number. For electrical work, confirm they're a Licensed Electrical Contractor through ESA's lookup at licensing.esasafe.com. Gas and HVAC work requires TSSA certification, which you can verify at tssa.org.

Request proof of liability insurance (minimum $2 million is standard) and ask for a certificate naming you as additional insured for the project duration. Many Ottawa homeowners skip this step and face huge problems if damage occurs.

Get detailed written estimates from at least three contractors. The estimate should break down materials, labor, permits, and timeline. Ask specifically about permit costs and who handles the applications - in Ottawa, building permits range from $100 for simple work to $2000+ for major renovations. A legitimate contractor will know current City of Ottawa permit requirements and fees.

Verify their local experience by asking for references from recent Ottawa projects, particularly in your neighborhood (Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, etc.). Drive by some completed projects if possible. Ask how long they've been working in Ottawa and if they're familiar with local building inspectors and processes.

Discuss the payment schedule carefully. Ontario's Construction Lien Act requires you to hold back 10% of each payment for 60 days after substantial completion - make sure they understand this. Never pay large amounts upfront or the full amount before completion. Red flag: any contractor demanding full payment upfront or only accepting cash.

Ask about their warranty policy and what happens if issues arise after completion. Get this in writing. Also confirm they'll handle all inspections required by the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) and provide you with all permits and inspection certificates.

Finally, ask about their current workload and realistic start dates. Be wary of contractors who can start immediately - good contractors in Ottawa typically book 4-8 weeks ahead. Ask what happens if weather or permit delays occur, and ensure change orders are handled in writing.

Trust your instincts during these conversations. Professional contractors will welcome these questions and provide clear answers. Anyone who seems evasive about licensing, insurance, or references should be crossed off your list immediately.

For verified contractors who've already been screened for licensing and insurance, check our directory at https://ottawaconstructionnetwork.com/directory.