How to Hire a General Contractor in Toronto
Your complete 2026 checklist for hiring a general contractor in Toronto, GTA. What to verify, what to ask, and what to avoid.
Hiring Checklist for Toronto
Before hiring a general contractor in Toronto, verify every item on this list. These steps protect your investment and ensure you are working with a qualified professional.
Verify HCRA registration for new builds or major additions
Confirm WSIB and liability insurance ($2M+ recommended)
Get a detailed written contract with scope, timeline, payment schedule, and change order process
Ask how they manage sub-trades and verify sub-trade licences (ESA, TSSA)
Check references from at least 3 recent similar-scale projects
Verify they will obtain all required building permits
Red Flags to Watch For
If a general contractor in Toronto displays any of these warning signs, consider looking elsewhere. Protecting yourself starts with recognizing these patterns.
No HCRA registration for work that requires it
Vague contract without detailed scope or payment milestones
Asks for more than 10% deposit before work begins
Cannot name their sub-trades or verify their licences
No building permit when one is clearly required
History of liens or unresolved complaints with consumer protection agencies
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Are you HCRA registered?
Good answer: Yes, my HCRA registration number is [number]. You can verify it online.
How do you handle change orders?
Good answer: All changes are documented in writing with pricing before any additional work begins.
Who are your sub-trades?
Good answer: I use [specific names] for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. All are licensed and insured.
What is your payment schedule?
Good answer: I typically structure payments at milestones: 10% deposit, then at framing, rough-in, and completion.
Licensing Requirements in Toronto
General contractors building new homes or performing major renovations in Ontario should be registered with HCRA. For renovations, verify WSIB, liability insurance, and check if they use licensed sub-trades. Verify credentials at HCRA (Home Construction Regulatory Authority).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a good general contractor in Toronto?
Start by comparing general contractors on FinderHub, which aggregates ratings from Google, HomeStars, BBB, and TrustedPros. Look for providers with Trust Index scores above 70 and verified government licences.
What licences should a general contractor in Toronto have?
General contractors building new homes or performing major renovations in Ontario should be registered with HCRA. For renovations, verify WSIB, liability insurance, and check if they use licensed sub-trades.
How many general contractors are in Toronto?
FinderHub tracks 0 verified general contractors in Toronto.
Should I get multiple quotes from Toronto general contractors?
Yes. Always get 2–3 written quotes for any job over $500. Compare not just price, but credentials, insurance coverage, and reviews across multiple platforms.
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