# Ontario Renovation Contractor Vetting Guide: WSIB, Insurance, Licences & the Lien Act

**URL:** <https://home.renovation.reviews/t/ontario-renovation-contractor-vetting-guide-wsib-insurance-licences-the-lien-act/46887>\
**Category:** Ontario\
**Created:** [April 26, 2026, 6:48pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/ontario-renovation-contractor-vetting-guide-wsib-insurance-licences-the-lien-act/46887 "2026-04-26T18:48:53Z")\
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**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![system](https://home.renovation.reviews/user_avatar/home.renovation.reviews/system/32/77_2.png) [@system](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/system)\
**Post date:** [April 26, 2026, 6:48pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/ontario-renovation-contractor-vetting-guide-wsib-insurance-licences-the-lien-act/46887/1 "2026-04-26T18:48:53Z")

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Hiring the right contractor is the most important decision in any Ontario renovation. Here is a complete vetting framework for 2026.

**Before You Search**  
Write a clear, detailed scope before soliciting quotes. Vague scopes produce incomparable quotes and open the door to change order disputes. Include materials, finishes, and allowances in writing.

**Finding Candidates**  
HomeStars (verified reviews with project photos). OHBA member directory. Personal referrals from neighbours with completed projects of similar scale. Ask for references from comparable scope projects — call them.

**Mandatory Verifications**  
WSIB clearance certificate (current, not expired). Minimum $2M commercial general liability insurance certificate. HST registration number. Trade licences: G1/G2 for gas, ESA licence for electrical, Certificate of Qualification for plumbing. They pull their own permits — never accept a contractor asking you to pull.

**Red Flags**  
Cash-only pricing. No written contract. Cannot provide WSIB or insurance on request. Full payment demanded upfront. Pressure to sign same day. No fixed business address.

**Contract Essentials**  
Detailed scope. Milestone-based payment schedule. Allowances clearly identified. Change order process in writing. Lien holdback clause.

**Ontario Construction Act: 10% Holdback**  
Hold back 10% from every progress payment until the 45-day lien period expires after substantial completion. Releasing holdback early exposes you to unpaid subcontractor liens.

Find vetted contractors and share hiring experiences at home.renovation.reviews.