Is my contractor required to have WSIB coverage for an addition project in Ottawa?

In most cases, yes. Under WSIB rules, construction businesses, with or without employees, must have WSIB coverage, with some exceptions. So the simplest question to ask any addition contractor is whether they have WSIB coverage or are exempt, and to get the answer in writing before work starts.

The main exception is narrow. Independent operators, sole proprietors and partners who do only exempt home renovation work may not need coverage. That means work on an existing home that is lived in by the person who hires them directly, or that person's family. Even then, any workers they hire must still be covered. If a contractor tells you they are exempt, ask how the exemption applies to them and to everyone else who will be on your site.

That matters for an addition because it rarely involves just one person. Framing, roofing, electrical, plumbing, drywall and finishing usually bring several trades and helpers onto the job. Ask your general contractor how they handle WSIB for each subcontractor and crew, not only for their own business.

WSIB is only one part of checking a contractor. Other useful questions:

• Ask for a certificate of liability insurance and confirm with the insurer that it is current.
• Electricians and plumbers are compulsory trades; you can check authorization on the Skilled Trades Ontario Public Register.
• Electrical work needs an ESA notification and is done by an electrical contractor licensed by ESA. Gas work is done by a TSSA-certified gas technician.
• Confirm who is applying for the building permit. An addition over 10 square metres needs one, and the City says the owner and contractor are equally liable for making sure it is obtained.

Be cautious about a quote that is far below the others. It may leave out items, skip permits or rely on workers whose coverage is unclear. Compare itemized quotes line by line so you can see where the difference comes from, and ask questions about anything missing.

Put the answers in your written contract: who is covering which trades, who is pulling which permits, and what insurance is in place. If you have questions about permits, 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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