What should be in a renovation contract?

Essential Elements Every Ottawa Renovation Contract Must Include

A comprehensive renovation contract protects both you and your contractor while establishing clear expectations for your project. Your contract should be detailed enough that a third party could understand exactly what work is being performed, when, and for how much money.

The most critical elements include a detailed scope of work that specifies materials by brand and model (not just "standard grade fixtures"), a fixed timeline with key milestones, and a clear payment schedule tied to work completion rather than calendar dates. Your contract should also specify who obtains permits, how change orders are handled, and what happens if delays occur due to weather, material shortages, or unforeseen conditions.

Project Specifications and Scope

The scope section should read like a blueprint in words. Include specific room dimensions, materials (Delta Faucet Model XYZ, not "kitchen faucet"), finishes, and installation methods. For Ottawa projects, ensure the contract specifies compliance with the Ontario Building Code and includes permit acquisition responsibilities. If you're doing a secondary suite conversion, the contract should reference specific OBC requirements for fire separation, ceiling heights, and egress windows.

List what's included AND what's excluded - this prevents costly surprises later. For example, "bathroom renovation includes new vanity installation but excludes electrical work for additional outlets" makes expectations crystal clear.

Timeline and Payment Structure

Never agree to large upfront payments - this is a red flag in the renovation industry. A typical payment schedule in Ottawa follows: 10% deposit upon signing, 25% when materials are delivered, 35% at rough-in completion, 25% at substantial completion, and 5% final payment after deficiency correction (typically 30 days later).

Include specific start and completion dates, but also factor in Ottawa's seasonal limitations. Exterior work requiring excavation typically can't proceed during our winter months, and permit processing through the City of Ottawa takes 2-4 weeks for most residential projects.

Legal Protections and Insurance

Your contract must confirm the contractor carries WSIB coverage and general liability insurance (minimum $2 million is standard in Ontario). Include lien holdback provisions as required by Ontario's Construction Act - typically 10% of each payment held for 45 days after substantial completion to protect against supplier or subcontractor liens.

The contract should specify dispute resolution procedures and include a warranty period (typically one year for workmanship, with manufacturer warranties for materials passing through to the homeowner).

Change Order Procedures

Renovations almost always involve some changes, especially in Ottawa's older homes where surprises lurk behind walls. Your contract should establish how changes are documented, priced, and approved. Require written change orders with cost and timeline impacts clearly stated before any additional work begins.

Include provisions for unforeseen conditions common in Ottawa homes - knob-and-tube wiring requiring updates, asbestos abatement in pre-1980 homes, or structural issues discovered during demolition.

For a comprehensive contract review or to discuss your specific renovation project, contact Justyn Rook Contracting for a free consultation. We provide detailed contracts that protect both parties and ensure your project proceeds smoothly from start to finish.