General Contractor Fees in Ontario: the 10–20% Cut, and What Whole Projects Run
General contractors manage entire renovation projects, coordinating multiple trades, pulling permits, and keeping work on schedule and budget. Their fees reflect this project management expertise on top of trade costs.
Quick Cost Summary
| Service | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen Renovation | $25,000 | $75,000 |
| Bathroom Renovation | $10,000 | $35,000 |
| Basement Finish | $30,000 | $75,000 |
| Home Addition (per sq ft) | $150 | $350 |
| Deck Build | $5,000 | $20,000 |
| Full Home Renovation | $100,000 | $300,000 |
| Garage Build | $25,000 | $60,000 |
| Permit & Design (typical) | $2,000 | $8,000 |
ProScore estimate, figures as of February 24, 2026. Ontario-wide ranges compiled by ProScore — not measured from ProScore listings, contractor quotes, or a pricing survey.
What Affects the Cost?
Project Complexity
Structural changes, load-bearing walls, and foundation work add significant cost and require engineering drawings.
Finishes & Materials
The difference between builder-grade and custom finishes can double a kitchen renovation budget.
Permits & Engineering
Major renovations require building permits and often a structural engineering report — budget $2,000–$8,000 for permits and design.
GC Fee Structure
Most GCs charge 10–20% of the total project as their management fee. Some use cost-plus, others fixed-price contracts.
Licensing in Ontario
Ontario does not require a general contractor licence, which makes verification even more important. Look for WSIB registration, liability insurance, and a track record of completed projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do general contractors need a licence in Ontario?
No specific licence is required, which is why comparing credentials and reviews on a platform like ProScore, and asking for proof of insurance yourself, is essential.
How much does a kitchen renovation cost?
Ontario kitchen renovations range from $25,000 for a basic refresh to $75,000+ for a full gut with custom cabinetry and high-end appliances.
Should I get a fixed-price or cost-plus contract?
Fixed-price gives you cost certainty but GCs pad for risk. Cost-plus is transparent but can overrun. For large projects, a hybrid with a guaranteed maximum is ideal.
How do I vet a general contractor?
Check WSIB registration, verify liability insurance ($2M minimum), ask for 3+ references from recent projects, and compare ProScore scores on ProScore.
Disclaimer: All prices shown are ProScore estimates for Ontario, figures as of February 24, 2026. They are not drawn from ProScore listings, contractor quotes, or a pricing survey. Actual costs vary based on job complexity, location, materials, and contractor. Always get 2–3 written quotes from professionals before committing. ProScore is not responsible for pricing accuracy — use these figures as a starting point for budgeting.
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