How many different quotes should I get before choosing a contractor?

Getting 3-4 quotes is the sweet spot for most renovation projects in Ottawa - enough to understand market pricing and contractor approaches without overwhelming yourself with too many options.

Here's why this range works best: Three quotes give you a good baseline to spot outliers (unusually high or low bids), while a fourth can help confirm patterns you're seeing. Going beyond four quotes often creates analysis paralysis and wastes time for both you and the contractors providing free estimates.

What matters more than the number of quotes is getting the RIGHT quotes. Focus on contractors who are WSIB insured, have strong local references, and specialize in your type of project. For bathroom or kitchen renovations in Ottawa, you want contractors familiar with older home challenges like knob-and-tube wiring, cast iron plumbing, and heritage district requirements. For basement finishing or secondary suites, experience with Ottawa's R4 zoning requirements and Ontario Building Code compliance is crucial.

Quality indicators trump quantity every time. Look for detailed written estimates that break down materials, labor, permits, and timelines. Red flags include door-to-door solicitors, cash-only deals, or quotes that seem too good to be true. In Ottawa's current market, extremely low bids often indicate corners will be cut on permits, proper materials, or skilled labor - which creates expensive problems later.

Timing your quote process strategically can improve your results. Spring (March-May) is quote season when contractors are planning their busy summer schedules, so you'll get more attention and competitive pricing. Avoid getting quotes during peak construction season (June-August) when established contractors are often too busy to provide thoughtful estimates.

Don't just compare bottom-line prices - evaluate what's included, the proposed timeline, and how well each contractor understood your project during the walkthrough. The contractor who asks the most questions and identifies potential issues upfront often delivers the smoothest project, even if they're not the cheapest bid.

For a free estimate on your renovation project that includes detailed scope breakdown and transparent pricing, contact Justyn Rook Contracting. We take the time to understand your specific needs and provide comprehensive quotes that help you make informed decisions.