Who should I hire first for a basement finishing project?

For a basement finishing project in Ottawa, hire a general contractor first who can coordinate all trades and pull the necessary City of Ottawa permits.

A licensed general contractor will handle the permit application process through ottawa.ca/building, which typically takes 15-25 business days for basement renovations and costs $200-500+ depending on scope. They'll also coordinate the required inspections throughout the project.

Why Start with a General Contractor

Your general contractor will create a comprehensive plan that addresses Ottawa's specific requirements for basement finishing, including proper egress windows, ceiling heights (minimum 6'6" under beams in Ottawa), and moisture control. They'll determine which trades are needed and in what order - typically starting with any structural work, then rough electrical and plumbing, followed by insulation, drywall, and finishing trades.

The contractor will also ensure all electrical work meets ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) requirements. Any electrical modifications require an ESA permit, and only Licensed Electrical Contractors can pull these permits. You can verify their ESA license at esasafe.com/contractor-locator.

What to Verify Before Hiring

Check that your general contractor has:

• Valid WSIB clearance certificate (wsib.ca/clearances)


• Proper liability insurance ($2M minimum recommended)


• Good standing with the Better Business Bureau


• Local Ottawa references from similar basement projects

Get detailed written quotes from at least three contractors. The quote should specify which permits they'll obtain, inspection schedules, and material allowances. In Ottawa's current market, basement finishing typically runs $40-80 per square foot depending on finish level.

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't hire contractors who want full payment upfront, can't provide proof of insurance, or suggest skipping permits to "save money." Under Ontario's Construction Lien Act, you should hold back 10% of payments for 60 days after substantial completion to protect against liens.

Getting Started

Contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 if you have questions about what permits your specific basement project requires. They can clarify requirements for secondary dwelling units if you're planning a separate apartment, which has additional zoning considerations in Ottawa.

For verified contractors in the Ottawa area, check our directory to find properly licensed professionals who understand local requirements and can guide your basement finishing project from permits to completion.