Question 1

Which terms belong in a written drywall warranty in Ottawa?

Accepted Answer

We found no Ontario statute or regulation that sets the terms of a drywall warranty, so what you get depends entirely on what the contractor agrees to put in writing. The Consumer Protection Act, 2002 does say that services are deemed to be of a reasonably acceptable quality, but it does not define warranty length, coverage or transferability for drywall work. We found no standard form, so the written warranty should spell out four things clearly.

Question 2

Can I look up an Ottawa drywaller on the public trade register?

Accepted Answer

Skilled Trades Ontario maintains a public register, but drywall trades are not on it in a way that helps you check a specific person. Here is why. Ontario has two drywall trades: "Drywall, acoustic and lathing applicator" and "Drywall finisher and plasterer". Both are prescribed trades under O. Reg. 876/21, but neither is compulsory.

Question 3

Do drywall contractors in Ontario need a trade certificate?

Accepted Answer

Ontario has two drywall trades: "Drywall, acoustic and lathing applicator" and "Drywall finisher and plasterer". Both are prescribed trades under O. Reg. 876/21, and neither is compulsory. Skilled Trades Ontario states plainly that because each trade is non-compulsory, a certificate is not required to do the work, and individuals practising these trades do not appear on the Skilled Trades Ontario public register.

Question 4

Signed a drywall deal at home in Nepean, how long to back out?

Accepted Answer

Under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act, 2002, you have 10 days to cancel a direct agreement, which is what a contract signed at your home is called, without giving any reason. The 10 days run from the day you receive your written copy of the agreement. A few things the Act requires of that agreement: - It must be in writing and delivered to you. - If it includes an estimate, the contractor may not charge more than 10 per cent above that estimate.

Question 5

What should I ask a drywall contractor in Orleans before signing?

Accepted Answer

Hiring a drywall contractor in Orleans follows the same rules as anywhere in the City of Ottawa, so the questions below apply regardless of the neighbourhood. Before you sign, get the answers in writing. What to ask before signing - What board will you use, and what thickness? Ask whether it suits your framing. - What finish level are you quoting, by number? Name the level you want in the quote so you can compare quotes fairly. - How many coats of compound, and is sanding included?

Question 6

Does the Construction Act holdback apply to a small Ottawa drywall repair?

Accepted Answer

Ontario's Construction Act says payers "shall retain a holdback equal to 10 per cent of the price of the services or materials as they are actually supplied". We found no exemption in it for small jobs or for homeowners, so ask a lawyer how it applies to a single drywall repair before you rely on it either way. What we can say plainly: the holdback is a retention the Act requires as work is supplied, not a deposit and not a discount.

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