What should I look for when hiring a contractor in Ottawa?

When hiring a contractor in Ottawa, focus on verifying their licenses, insurance, and permits first - this protects you from liability and ensures quality work that meets Ontario Building Code requirements.

Essential License Verification for Ottawa Contractors

Start by checking if your contractor holds the proper licenses for your project type. For electrical work, verify they're a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) through ESA's website at esasafe.com/contractor-locator. Gas and HVAC work requires TSSA certification - check this at tssa.org. General contractors should be registered with the City of Ottawa if required for your specific project type.

Call the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 to confirm what permits your project needs. A legitimate contractor will know Ottawa's permit requirements and should offer to handle the permit application through ottawa.ca/building portal. Be wary of contractors who suggest skipping permits - this can create serious issues when you sell your home or file insurance claims.

Insurance and Financial Protection

Demand proof of WSIB clearance and liability insurance before any work begins. Check WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances - this protects you if workers are injured on your property. Liability insurance should be at least $2 million. In Ottawa's competitive market, established contractors carry proper insurance without hesitation.

Understand Ontario's Construction Lien Act protection. You're entitled to hold back 10% of each payment for 60 days after substantial completion. This holdback protects you if subcontractors or suppliers aren't paid. Contractors familiar with Ottawa projects expect this holdback structure.

Red Flags Specific to Ottawa Market

Avoid contractors who go door-to-door after storms - legitimate Ottawa contractors are busy with scheduled work. Be suspicious of anyone demanding full payment upfront or offering significant discounts for signing "today only." With Ottawa's robust construction market, quality contractors don't need high-pressure tactics.

Watch for contractors who can't provide local Ottawa references or seem unfamiliar with City of Ottawa processes. Established local contractors know the Building Code Services staff, typical permit timelines (10-15 days for simple permits, 4-8 weeks for complex projects), and current fee schedules.

Getting Quality Quotes in Ottawa

Request detailed written quotes from at least three contractors. Quotes should specify materials, labor, permits, and timeline. In Ottawa's current market, expect bathroom renovations from $15,000-$50,000 and kitchen renovations from $25,000-$80,000, depending on scope and finishes.

Ask about their experience with Ottawa's specific requirements - secondary suite regulations in neighborhoods like Kanata or Orleans, heritage district restrictions in the Glebe, or rural septic considerations in areas like Manotick or Stittsville.

Final Due Diligence

Check online reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings, but also drive by recent projects if possible. Ask for references from recent Ottawa clients and actually call them. Verify the contractor's business address - legitimate contractors have established local offices, not just P.O. boxes.

For additional contractor verification resources, visit the City of Ottawa's consumer protection information at ottawa.ca, or contact Ontario's consumer protection office for guidance on contractor agreements and your rights under Ontario law.