Do I need HCRA-licensed builder for my home addition in Ottawa?

For a typical addition to the house you live in, the short answer is usually no. The Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA) licenses builders and sellers of new homes in Ontario. As the HCRA puts it, renovators aren't licensed or regulated like new home builders and sellers are, and "typically, renovations or upgrades to an existing home do not make the home 'new' – and as such, do not require the builder to be licensed."

An addition to your existing house is a renovation in that sense. If your project is unusual, for example something that could be considered a new home, or work tied to building or selling new units, check directly with the HCRA before you sign anything rather than relying on a contractor's word.

The warranty question follows from the same distinction. Tarion's new-home warranty is tied to new homes, so don't assume your addition carries any statutory warranty. Get the contractor's warranty terms in writing: what is covered, for how long, and how claims are handled.

Since there is no provincial licence for renovation contractors, your protection comes from what you ask and check yourself:

• WSIB: construction businesses must have coverage, with some exceptions, so ask whether they have WSIB coverage or are exempt.
• Insurance: ask for a certificate of liability insurance and confirm it is current.
• Trades: electricians and plumbers are compulsory trades, and you can check authorization on the Skilled Trades Ontario Public Register. Electrical work needs an ESA notification, and gas work is done by a TSSA-certified gas technician.
• Permit: an addition over 10 square metres needs a City building permit, and the owner and the contractor are equally liable for getting it when required.
• Contract: a contract over $50 negotiated in your home must be in writing, and you can cancel within 10 days of receiving the written copy.

Cost varies widely with size, foundation, structure and finishes, so compare itemized quotes instead of a per-square-foot number. Ask for references from recent additions, and visit a finished project if you can. A contractor who answers these questions clearly and puts everything in writing is giving you useful information about how the job will be run.

If you are unsure whether a permit is needed, Building Code Services can help (buildingpermits@ottawa.ca). You can browse addition contractors in the Ottawa Construction Network directory at justynrookcontracting.com and compare quotes.

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Looking for experienced contractors? The Ottawa Construction Network connects homeowners with qualified professionals:

• Homeupgraders
• RenoMotion Inc.
• Renovo Construction
• The Next Reno
• Diamond renovations

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