What should I do if multiple contractors give very different quotes?

When contractors in Ottawa give vastly different quotes, it usually means they're not quoting the same scope of work or there are significant differences in their approach, materials, or business practices.

The first step is to ensure all contractors are quoting identical work. Create a detailed written scope that specifies exactly what you want done - materials, finishes, timeline, cleanup, permits, and any special requirements. Give this same document to each contractor and ask them to quote based on it. Many quote discrepancies in Ottawa happen because one contractor assumes basic materials while another quotes premium, or one includes permit costs while another doesn't.

Breaking Down the Differences

Request itemized quotes from all contractors showing labor, materials, permits, and other costs separately. In Ottawa, legitimate contractors should be able to explain their pricing structure. A typical renovation quote should include:

• Labor costs (often 40-60% of total)


• Materials with specific brands/grades


• City of Ottawa permit fees ($200-2000+ depending on scope)


• WSIB and insurance costs


• Cleanup and disposal fees

If one quote is significantly lower, investigate why. Common reasons include:

• Unlicensed contractors who can't legally pull permits


• Contractors planning to use substandard materials


• Missing scope items (permits, cleanup, electrical/plumbing rough-ins)


• Cash deals to avoid taxes (red flag for insurance/warranty issues)

Verification Steps for Ottawa Contractors

Before making decisions based on price, verify each contractor's credentials:

• ESA licensing for electrical work at esasafe.com/contractor-locator


• TSSA certification for gas work at tssa.org


• WSIB clearance certificate from wsib.ca/clearances


• Current liability insurance (minimum $2 million recommended)


• Better Business Bureau rating and online reviews

Red Flags in Quote Variations

Be extremely cautious if a quote is more than 30% below others without clear explanation. In Ottawa's construction market, legitimate contractors have similar overhead costs for insurance, licensing, and permits. Unusually low quotes often indicate:

• Unlicensed operators who can't legally do the work


• Contractors who plan to cut corners on materials or safety


• Businesses without proper insurance or WSIB coverage


• Scammers who collect deposits and disappear

Making the Right Choice

Don't automatically choose the lowest or highest quote. Instead, evaluate:

• Detailed scope matching your requirements


• Proper licensing and insurance verification


• References from recent Ottawa projects


• Clear timeline and payment schedule


• Written warranty terms

Contact the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 if you're unsure about permit requirements that should be included in quotes. They can clarify what permits your project needs and typical associated costs.

Getting Clarification

Schedule follow-up meetings with contractors whose quotes seem reasonable but differ significantly. Ask specific questions about their approach, material choices, and timeline. Legitimate contractors will gladly explain their pricing and methodology.

Remember that in Ontario, you have a 10-day cooling-off period for contracts signed in your home, and construction lien holdback rules protect you by allowing you to hold back 10% of payments for 60 days after substantial completion.

The goal isn't finding the cheapest contractor, but finding the best value from a properly licensed, insured professional who will complete your project safely and legally in Ottawa.