Doing Renovation work to your home?

Is your contractor licensed by the city?

Be sure to enter into a contract with a building contractor who has a valid license. Ask the contractor for their license number and call the licensing services in your city to verify this information beore agreeing to any work. For the city of Toronto the number is 416-392-6700.

Subcontractors working for a general contractor must also have a license. The following building contractors must be licensed to operate.

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

Follow these tips before starting a building a renovation:

- Check with the Building to see if a construction permit is needed for the renovation
- Get at least 3 quotes from contractors that are licensed
- Get their references
- Enter into a written contract
- Contract must include name of the company, business address, business phone number, license number and completion date
- Ensure that all work to be done is clearly stated in the contract
- Ensure that the full price is stated in the contract
- Find a payment schedule that you and your contractor agree on and include it in the contract

There are people who prey on the unsuspecting public and tell you that you need to have renovation work that is maybe not needed. Do not sign anything, or allow work to be done without cosulting someone who is knowledgeable and you can trust.

If you need to file a complaint, call 416-392-3082 for the city of Toronto investigation services.


For information on the home renovation tax credit

For information on home equity mortgages

For information on purchase plus improvements mortgages


To contact a a toronto mortgage broker, contact us or apply online with our online mortgage application