Is your contractor licensed by the City of Toronto?

There are individuals who prey upon the unsuspecting public. Be sure to enter into a written contract with a licensed building contractor who has a valid City of Toronto license. To find out, ask the contractor for his/her City of Toronto license number. Verify this information with Licensing Services by calling (416) 392-6700 before agreeing to any work.

The following building contractors must be licensed to operate in the City of Toronto:

• Building renovators such as roofers, carpenters, bricklayers, concrete workers, waterproofers
• Drain contractors
• Plumbing contractors
• Heating contractors
• Insulation installers

Follow these tips before starting a building renovation:

• Check with Toronto Building to see if a construction permit is required for the proposed renovation.
• Get at least three quotations from licensed contractors.
• Get references from other customers.
• Enter into a written contract.
• The contract must include the name of the company, business address, phone number, a completion date, and a Toronto license number.
• Ensure that all work to be done (including site cleanup) is clearly stated in the contract.
• Ensure that the full price of the job is stated in the contract.
• Agree with your contractor on a payment schedule, subject to the Provisions of the Construction Lien Act, and include the schedule in the contract.

Should you need to file a complaint, call (416) 392-3082.