Straight answers about hiring, contracts, money and permits. Then every question answered anywhere on this site, in one list you can search.
Yes, for any big job. Three written quotes show you the fair range. Compare what each one includes, line by line, before you look at the total. Be careful with a quote far below the others, because something is usually missing.
Three come from Ontario consumer law and one from a provincial rebate program, so they apply to any contractor you hire, us included.
Both names and addresses, and a clear list of the work and materials. The price with taxes and the payment schedule. Start and finish dates, any warranty, and which trades are hired out. In Ontario, a renovation contract over $50 must be in writing. Read the rules on ontario.ca.
In Ontario, not by more than 10 percent, unless you agree to new work or a new price. That rule is in the Consumer Protection Act. A change you ask for mid-job is the usual reason a price moves, and it should be in writing.
It is an Ontario rebate program that pays back part of the cost of energy upgrades. Save on Energy and Enbridge Gas run it, backed by the province. Insulation, air sealing, ENERGY STAR windows and doors, heat pumps, smart thermostats and solar are on the list. You can book a home energy assessment and bundle two or more upgrades, or claim some single upgrades without one. Check the current rules on saveonenergy.ca, since they change.
Holdback is 10 percent of the contract price that Ontario law tells the homeowner to keep back for a set time after the work is done. It protects you if a supplier or trade was not paid and files a lien. Ask your lawyer about the exact dates for your job.