The checklist
Seven questions worth answering before the first deposit.
Use this before asking for estimates, then bring the same answers to every contractor. The order matters: clarify the work, identify the unknowns, then compare offers.
- 01
Describe the same job to every contractor.
Write down what you want to change, where the work happens, approximate dimensions and anything structural, plumbing-related or electrical. Ask each professional to price that same scope, with exclusions in writing.
Ask: What is included in this price, and what would require a change order?
- 02
Check the permit question before treating a quote as final.
Permit and zoning rules depend on the municipality and the actual project. Start with available municipal guidance, then confirm unresolved property-specific conditions with the authority responsible for permits.
Ask: Which permits, plans or inspections may apply, and what still needs municipal confirmation?
- 03
Decide who is handling permits and their costs.
Agree in writing who prepares plans, applies, pays fees and arranges inspections. A contractor can assist, but the homeowner should verify the local requirements and see any required permits before work begins.
Ask: Will you prepare the permit application, and are fees and revisions included?
- 04
Verify relevant experience and credentials.
Ask about completed projects similar to yours, recent references, business and insurance details, and any qualifications relevant to the trade or design work. Where Ontario designer registration applies, use the provincial registry.
Ask: Can you show comparable work and explain which registrations or insurance apply to this job?
- 05
Compare written estimates, not just totals.
Ontario recommends getting at least three written estimates. Compare labour, materials, allowances, schedule, exclusions, permits and payment terms instead of choosing by the lowest number alone.
Ask: Can you break out labour, materials, allowances, fees and exclusions?
- 06
Put the full agreement in writing.
Include scope, materials, dates, cost, payment schedule, change process, cleanup and responsibility for subcontractors. Review the contract and your consumer rights before paying or signing.
Ask: How will delays, unexpected work, extra charges and warranty issues be documented?
- 07
Keep the next action specific.
If a requirement remains uncertain, write down the exact question and the municipal office or qualified professional who can answer it. Save your project notes and compare only quotes based on the same confirmed assumptions.
Ask: What is the one thing we need to verify before we can responsibly schedule this work?
Official reading
Check the source, not just a summary.
These Ontario government references support the general planning advice above. Your municipality and specific project determine which permit or zoning requirements actually apply.
- Ontario: Your rights when starting home renovations or repairs Written estimates, contracts, permits and consumer rights
- Ontario: Building permits, citizen’s guide How building permits work and who issues them
- WSIB: Check a contractor clearance How to find and verify an Ontario contractor’s WSIB clearance when applicable
- Ontario: Building Code practitioner registration QuARTS registry for qualified and registered building practitioners, where required
- Ontario: A guide for home renovation and roofing businesses Practical contractor guidance on permits and project planning
Reviewed October 20, 2026. Check linked official pages for subsequent changes.