How do I report a bad Ottawa driveway contractor to the city?

The City of Ottawa does not regulate or license driveway contractors, so reporting a bad contractor to the city typically won't result in direct action against the contractor. However, there are several proper channels for reporting contractor issues and protecting other homeowners.

Consumer Protection Ontario is your primary avenue for contractor disputes. They handle complaints about home improvement contractors under the Consumer Protection Act. You can file a complaint online at ontario.ca/consumers or call 1-800-889-9768. They investigate deceptive practices, contract violations, and can take enforcement action including fines and business closure orders.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) maintains contractor ratings and handles dispute resolution. File a complaint at bbb.org/ottawa to create a permanent record that future customers can see. While BBB ratings aren't legally binding, they influence consumer decisions and contractors often respond to BBB complaints to protect their ratings.

WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) should be contacted if the contractor was working without WSIB coverage, which is mandatory in Ontario. Call 1-800-387-0750 to report contractors operating without coverage. This protects future homeowners from liability if workers are injured on their property.

For permit violations or work that doesn't meet City of Ottawa standards (like improper driveway aprons or drainage that affects municipal infrastructure), call 3-1-1 to report bylaw infractions. The city can investigate and order corrections for work that violates municipal standards.

Document everything before reporting: contracts, photos of defective work, correspondence, payment records, and any promises made. Take photos showing specific problems like poor drainage, cracking, settling, or work that doesn't match the contract specifications.

Small Claims Court (up to $35,000) may be necessary for contract disputes or defective work. This is often more effective than regulatory complaints for getting actual compensation or forcing work completion.

When to Report:

• Contractor took payment and abandoned the job


• Work doesn't meet basic industry standards (improper base depth, poor compaction, drainage issues)


• Contractor misrepresented credentials, insurance, or WSIB coverage


• Deceptive sales practices or contract violations


• Safety violations during construction

Prevention for other homeowners: Post honest reviews on Google and Facebook to warn others. Many Ottawa homeowners research contractors online before hiring, and your experience can prevent others from making the same mistake.

Need help finding a reputable replacement contractor? Ottawa Driveways can match you with local paving professionals who carry proper insurance and WSIB coverage for your driveway repair or replacement project.