How to Verify a Contractor's License in, ON (2026) | GetAHomePro
How to Verify a Contractor's License in Ontario — Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
·Updated on ·5 min read
L
Lisa NguyenGeneral Contractor & Renovation Specialist
Published March 21, 2026
Key Takeaway
Learn exactly how to verify a contractor's license in Ontario. Step-by-step guides for ESA, TSSA, Skilled Trades Ontario, WSIB, and permit checks.
Hiring an unlicensed contractor in Ontario isn't just a financial risk — it's a legal one. If unlicensed electrical or gas work causes a fire, flood, or injury, your home insurance can deny the claim outright. The good news: every license you need to verify is searchable through free, public government registries. This guide tells you exactly where to look and what to do.
Which Trades Require a License in Ontario
Ontario divides skilled trades into compulsory and voluntary certifications. Compulsory trades are legally restricted — only licensed tradespeople can perform the work.
Compulsory trades include:
Electricians (309A / 442A) — licensed through Skilled Trades Ontario; inspected by ESA
Gas fitters (G1, G2, G3) — licensed through TSSA
Plumbers (306A) — licensed through Skilled Trades Ontario
Refrigeration and AC Mechanic (313A) — licensed through Skilled Trades Ontario
Sheet Metal Worker (308A), Steamfitter (307A), Boilermaker (433A)
General contractors are NOT a licensed trade in Ontario. Anyone can call themselves a GC. What matters is whether their subtrades are licensed.
Licensed General Contractor, LEED Green Associate, 14+ years experience
Lisa Nguyen is a licensed general contractor and LEED Green Associate with 14 years of experience managing residential renovation and remodeling projects. She brings expertise in kitchen and bathroom remodels, basement finishing, and sustainable building practices.
Want a real quote, not an estimate?
Text us what you need done. We’ll connect you with a contractor who’ll call you with an actual number.
Is it illegal to hire an unlicensed contractor in Ontario?
For compulsory trades (electrical, plumbing, gas fitting), YES — only licensed tradespeople can legally perform the work. For non-compulsory trades like general contracting, there's no licensing requirement, but you should still verify insurance and WSIB.
Can I check a contractor's license for free?
Yes. All registries mentioned in this guide — ESA, TSSA, Skilled Trades Ontario, WSIB — are free, public databases.
What if my contractor says they don't need a permit?
Verify independently. Call your municipality's building department and describe the work. In Ontario, most electrical, plumbing, structural, and HVAC work requires permits.
Will my insurance cover damage from unlicensed work?
Potentially not. Many home insurance policies exclude coverage for damage resulting from work done by unlicensed or uninsured contractors. Check your policy or call your broker.
How long does license verification take?
Each check takes 2-5 minutes. Total time to verify license + insurance + WSIB: about 15 minutes. That's the cheapest insurance you can buy.
Last updated: March 2026. Registry URLs verified at time of publication.