How do I check past Ottawa driveway projects by my contractor?

Always request to see photos of recent driveway projects and ask for references from homeowners whose driveways were completed within the last 2-3 years. A reputable paving contractor should readily provide both without hesitation.

Request specific project photos showing before, during, and after shots of recent Ottawa driveway work. Look for photos that demonstrate proper base preparation — you should see excavated areas with granular base materials being placed and compacted in lifts. Many contractors only show finished surfaces, but the base work is what determines long-term durability in Ottawa's freeze-thaw climate. Ask to see projects similar to yours in scope, material, and neighbourhood conditions.

Get homeowner references and actually contact them. Ask the contractor for contact information of 3-5 recent customers whose driveways were completed within the past 2-3 years. When you call these references, ask specific questions: How has the driveway performed through Ottawa winters? Any cracking, settling, or drainage issues? Did the contractor complete work on schedule and clean up properly? Would they hire this contractor again? Drive by these properties if possible to see the work firsthand — you can often spot quality issues like edge cracking, settling, or poor drainage from the street.

Check online presence carefully but understand its limitations. Look for the contractor's website, Google reviews, and social media presence. However, be aware that online reviews can be manipulated and may not reflect the full picture. Focus on detailed reviews that mention specific aspects like base preparation, cleanup, timeline adherence, and how the driveway has performed over time. Be skeptical of contractors with only recent reviews or reviews that seem generic.

Verify licensing and insurance status. In Ontario, paving contractors must carry WSIB coverage — request and verify a current WSIB clearance certificate. Ask for proof of general liability insurance (minimum $2 million coverage). Check that any electrical work for heated driveways involves an ESA-licensed electrician. These verifications protect you from liability and indicate a legitimate business operation.

Visit current job sites if possible. If the contractor is working on other Ottawa driveways during your evaluation period, ask if you can briefly observe their work practices. Look for proper equipment (vibratory roller, paving machine for asphalt jobs), organized material staging, and systematic base preparation. Quality contractors welcome informed customers who understand the importance of proper technique.

When to hire a professional for verification: If you're considering a large investment ($10,000+) or have concerns about a contractor's credentials, consider hiring an independent paving consultant or engineer to review the contractor's proposed specifications and past work quality. This is particularly valuable for complex projects involving drainage, heated systems, or challenging soil conditions common in Ottawa's clay-heavy areas.