HVAC Licensing in Ontario
HVAC work requires multiple certifications. Gas-fired equipment requires TSSA G2/G1 certification. Refrigeration work requires a 313A or 313D Certificate of Qualification.
Key facts
At a Glance
Key licensing facts for hvacs in Ontario
Trade Classification
Compulsory Trade
License Required
Certification
G2/G1 Gas Technician (TSSA) and/or 313A/313D C of Q
Red Seal
Not available
Permits
Typically required
TSSA Gas Permit, ESA Electrical Permit, Municipal Building Permit
Insurance
Required/Expected
The details
Licensing Requirements
What it takes to qualify
Credentials, training, and coverage for this trade
- Certification: G2/G1 Gas Technician (TSSA) and/or 313A/313D C of Q
- No Red Seal endorsement for this trade
- Liability insurance is required or expected
HVAC work in Ontario requires multiple certifications. Gas-fired equipment (furnaces, boilers) requires G2 or G1 Gas Technician certification from the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA). Refrigeration work (AC, heat pumps) requires a 313A (Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic) or 313D (Residential Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic) Certificate of Qualification from Skilled Trades Ontario. Contractors handling refrigerants also need a TSSA Certificate of Authorization. Sheet metal work for ductwork is a separate compulsory trade.
Regulatory Body
Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) for gas work; Skilled Trades Ontario for refrigeration mechanics
Visit official websiteHow to Verify
Ask for their TSSA gas technician certificate number and/or Skilled Trades Ontario C of Q number. Verify gas technicians through TSSA.
Before the work starts
Permits You'll Need
Required permits for hvac work in Ontario
TSSA Gas Permit
Required for all work on gas-fired equipment including furnaces, boilers, water heaters, and gas fireplaces. Only TSSA-certified gas technicians can perform this work.
ESA Electrical Permit
Required for electrical components of HVAC systems including wiring for furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and thermostats that involve new circuits.
Municipal Building Permit
Required when HVAC work involves ductwork modifications, structural changes, or is part of a larger renovation or new construction project.
Gas work and electrical work each require their own separate permits and inspections. One does not cover the other.
Converting between heating fuel types (e.g., oil to gas) typically requires both TSSA and municipal permits.
Homeowner Tip: Ask your HVAC contractor to confirm which permits are needed for your specific project. A furnace replacement may need both a TSSA gas permit and an ESA electrical permit.
Permit requirements vary by municipality. Always confirm with your local building department before starting work.
Buyer beware
Red Flags to Watch For
Warning signs when hiring a hvac
No TSSA certification for gas work or no 313A/313D for refrigeration work
Quotes a new system without performing a proper heat loss/gain calculation for your home
Recommends significantly oversized equipment - bigger is not better for HVAC efficiency
No written warranty on parts and labour, or refuses to pull permits
High-pressure sales tactics or demands full payment before installation
Before you sign
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
A few minutes now saves you later
Ask these before signing any contract
- Do you hold the required TSSA gas technician and/or 313A refrigeration certifications?
- Will you perform a heat loss/gain calculation to properly size the equipment?
- What rebates am I eligible for, and will you help me apply?
- What warranty comes with the equipment and your labour?
- Do you offer a maintenance plan after installation?
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Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Do hvacs in Ontario need a licence?
HVAC work in Ontario requires multiple certifications. Gas-fired equipment (furnaces, boilers) requires G2 or G1 Gas Technician certification from the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA). Refrigeration work (AC, heat pumps) requires a 313A (Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic) or 313D (Residential Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic) Certificate of Qualification from Skilled Trades Ontario. Contractors handling refrigerants also need a TSSA Certificate of Authorization. Sheet metal work for ductwork is a separate compulsory trade.
How can I verify a hvac's credentials in Ontario?
Ask for their TSSA gas technician certificate number and/or Skilled Trades Ontario C of Q number. Verify gas technicians through TSSA.
What are the red flags when hiring a hvac?
(1) No TSSA certification for gas work or no 313A/313D for refrigeration work (2) Quotes a new system without performing a proper heat loss/gain calculation for your home (3) Recommends significantly oversized equipment - bigger is not better for HVAC efficiency (4) No written warranty on parts and labour, or refuses to pull permits (5) High-pressure sales tactics or demands full payment before installation
What questions should I ask before hiring a hvac?
(1) Do you hold the required TSSA gas technician and/or 313A refrigeration certifications? (2) Will you perform a heat loss/gain calculation to properly size the equipment? (3) What rebates am I eligible for, and will you help me apply? (4) What warranty comes with the equipment and your labour? (5) Do you offer a maintenance plan after installation?
What permits do I need for hvac work in Ontario?
For hvac work in Ontario, you may need the following permits: TSSA Gas Permit, ESA Electrical Permit, Municipal Building Permit. Ask your HVAC contractor to confirm which permits are needed for your specific project. A furnace replacement may need both a TSSA gas permit and an ESA electrical permit.
Should my hvac have insurance?
Yes, hvacs in Ontario are expected to carry liability insurance and WSIB coverage.
How much does a hvac cost in Ontario?
Typical rates for hvacs in Ontario range from $100-$200/hour. Equipment brand and efficiency rating (AFUE for furnaces, SEER for AC), home size and ductwork condition, complexity of installation, permits, whether existing ductwork needs modification, and seasonal demand. Emergency service calls (nights, weekends, holidays) carry premium rates of $250-$350+ just for the diagnostic fee. Government rebates through Enbridge and the Canada Greener Homes program can offset up to $10,000+ for high-efficiency upgrades.
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