Buyer guide
15 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor (Ontario Checklist)
A printable checklist of the 15 questions that separate a reliable Ontario contractor from a risky one — from WSIB and insurance to change orders, permits, and warranty — with why each one matters.
HomeCopilot Editorial
You learn more from how a contractor answers these than from the polish of their pitch. Ask all fifteen, and pay attention to who answers clearly and in writing. Here is the checklist, with why each question matters.
- 1. Are you covered by WSIB? — Ask for a current Clearance Certificate so you are not liable if a worker is injured on your property.
- 2. Can I see your liability insurance? — Confirm it is current and covers the value of your project.
- 3. Are you licensed for this trade? — Electrical must be ECRA/ESA-licensed; gas must be TSSA-registered. Confirm the licence, do not just take a yes.
- 4. Who is actually on site day to day? — Is it the person quoting, an employed crew, or subcontractors you have not met?
- 5. Do you use subcontractors, and are they insured too? — Their coverage becomes your risk if it is missing.
- 6. Can I speak to two recent clients with a job like mine? — Real, reachable references beat a wall of five-star screenshots.
- 7. Will I get a detailed written scope? — It should say what is included and, just as clearly, what is not.
- 8. What is the payment schedule and deposit? — Milestone-based payments and a modest deposit are healthy; a large up-front payment is a flag.
- 9. How do you handle change orders? — A surprise behind the walls should become an agreed price in writing before the work happens.
- 10. Who pulls the permit? — For work that needs one, the contractor usually applies, arranges inspections, and closes it. Confirm it is in the scope.
- 11. What is your timeline, and what happens if it slips? — A start date, a target finish, and an honest answer about delays.
- 12. What warranty do you offer, in writing? — On both workmanship and any manufacturer coverage on materials.
- 13. How do you protect the rest of my home? — Dust control, floor protection, and daily cleanup in an occupied house.
- 14. How will we communicate and how often? — A single point of contact and a regular update rhythm prevents most disputes.
- 15. What is not included in this quote? — The most revealing question of all; a good contractor answers it without flinching.
FAQ
What is the single most important question?
"What is not included in this quote?" It surfaces the gaps — prep, permits, disposal, transitions — that turn a low quote into a series of surprise extras later.
Should I get the answers in writing?
Yes. Verbal reassurance is easy; a written scope, payment schedule, and warranty are what protect you. If a contractor resists putting the basics in writing, treat that as its own answer.
Plan with AI
Describe your project — get a scope, a planning range, and a prep checklist.