How do I know if a contractor is properly licensed and insured?

Verifying a contractor's licensing and insurance is crucial for protecting yourself from liability and ensuring quality work. In Ontario, legitimate contractors should readily provide proof of their credentials and never hesitate when asked for documentation.

Start with WSIB coverage verification, which is mandatory for most construction work in Ontario. Ask for their WSIB clearance certificate and verify it directly through the WSIB website or by calling 1-800-387-0750. This protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property. Any contractor who says they "don't need WSIB" or seems evasive about this is a major red flag.

For general liability insurance, request a certificate of insurance showing minimum $2 million coverage. The certificate should name you as an additional insured party for the duration of the project. Call the insurance company directly to confirm the policy is active - don't just accept a photocopy. This coverage protects against property damage and accidents during construction.

Electrical work requires additional verification through the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). If your project involves electrical components, ensure the contractor uses a licensed electrician with a valid ESA license. You can verify electrical contractor licenses at esasafe.com or by calling 1-877-372-7233. Similarly, gas work must be performed by TSSA-licensed technicians.

Check business registration through the Ontario Business Registry to confirm the company exists legally. Look for established businesses with a fixed address - avoid contractors operating only from cell phones or P.O. boxes. In Ottawa, many reputable contractors are also members of local associations like the Ottawa Construction Association.

Request and verify references from recent projects, particularly those similar to yours. Contact these homeowners directly to ask about work quality, timeline adherence, and any issues. A contractor confident in their work will gladly provide multiple recent references.

Red flags to avoid include door-to-door solicitation, demands for full payment upfront, prices significantly below market rates, or reluctance to provide documentation. Legitimate contractors understand that verification is part of professional business and will appreciate working with an informed homeowner.

For peace of mind on your renovation project, always work with properly licensed and insured contractors. At Justyn Rook Contracting, we maintain full WSIB coverage, comprehensive liability insurance, and work with licensed trades for all electrical and plumbing components. We're happy to provide all documentation upfront because protecting our clients is fundamental to our business.