How to Choose a Contractor in Ontario: The Complete Guide
Hiring the right contractor can save you thousands and months of headaches. Here's what Ontario homeowners need to know before signing a contract.
Choosing a contractor is one of the most important decisions an Ontario homeowner can make. Whether you're renovating a kitchen, replacing a roof, or finishing a basement, the right contractor delivers on time, on budget, and to a standard you can be proud of. The wrong one can cost you thousands in repairs, delays, and legal headaches.
Start with Verified Credentials
Ontario has specific licensing requirements for many trades. Electricians must be licensed through the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). HVAC technicians and gas fitters need Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) certification. Home builders require Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA) licensing. These are not optional — they are provincial law.
Before you hire anyone, verify their credentials. ProScore checks these government databases automatically and displays verification status on every contractor profile.
Check WSIB Coverage
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) provides workers' compensation coverage. If a contractor without WSIB coverage has a worker injured on your property, you could be personally liable for medical costs and lost wages. Always confirm WSIB registration before work begins.
Get Multiple Quotes
Contact at least three contractors for written quotes. A legitimate quote should include:
Be wary of quotes significantly lower than others — this often signals corners being cut on materials, insurance, or permits.
Read Reviews Across Multiple Platforms
A single platform's reviews can be misleading. A contractor with 4.8 stars on Google might have an F with the Better Business Bureau or poor ratings elsewhere. ProScore aggregates ratings from 10+ verified data sources to give you the complete picture.
Look for patterns: consistent praise for quality work, communication, and reliability is a strong signal. Consistent complaints about billing, delays, or cleanup should raise flags.
Trust the Data, Not the Sales Pitch
Every contractor will tell you they are the best. Data tells you the truth. ProScore evaluates contractors across four pillars — Reputation, Verification, Sentiment, and Transparency — to produce a single trust score from 0 to 100.
Search for contractors at proscore.ca to compare scores, read cross-platform reviews, and verify government credentials before you hire.
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