Foundations Licensing in Ontario

Foundation repair is not a specifically licensed trade in Ontario, but significant foundation work falls under the Ontario Building Code and requires building permits. Structural repairs should be designed by a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) licensed with Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO). Underpinning projects require engineering design, building permits, and typically involve compulsory trades including concrete formwork (General Carpenter), and may require plumbing and electrical disconnections by licensed tradespeople. Contractors must comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act for excavation and shoring.

Ensure structural repairs are designed by a licensed P.Eng. Ask for proof of WSIB coverage and liability insurance.

(1) Recommends extensive repair work without suggesting a structural engineer's assessment first (2) Only offers one repair method regardless of the specific problem - different issues require different solutions (3) No written warranty on workmanship and materials (4) Does not carry liability insurance or WSIB coverage (5) Cannot explain the cause of the foundation problem, only the proposed fix

(1) Do you recommend a structural engineer's assessment before starting repairs? (2) What specific repair method do you recommend and why is it the best option for my situation? (3) Do you carry liability insurance and WSIB coverage? (4) What warranty do you provide on materials and workmanship? (5) Will you pull the necessary building permits for this work?

For foundations work in Ontario, you may need the following permits: Municipal Building Permit. Foundation work is serious structural work. Always hire a contractor who works with a licensed structural engineer (P.Eng.) and obtains the required building permit.

Yes, foundations in Ontario are expected to carry liability insurance and WSIB coverage.

Typical rates for foundations in Ontario range from $75-$150/hour (labour); projects typically quoted per job. Severity and type of foundation damage (hairline cracks vs. structural failure), repair method required (injection vs. underpinning vs. wall replacement), linear footage of foundation affected, depth of excavation needed, accessibility of the foundation from the exterior, whether a structural engineer's report is required, soil conditions, and presence of high water table. Toronto and GTA projects cost more due to higher labour rates and tighter site access. An engineer's report ($800-$2,500) is typically required before major structural repairs.