Building a custom home is one of the most exciting milestones in life—but also one of the most complex. The choice of builder can make or break your experience. That’s why Ontario homeowners searching for custom home builders need more than glossy brochures. They need the right questions.
Below are 10 essential questions you should always ask before signing a contract. Each one addresses a pain point like fear of hiring the wrong builder, budget anxiety, or trust and communication concerns.
How to Use This List
- Shortlist at least two or three builders.
- Ask the same 10 questions in writing.
- Compare answers, proof, and references—not just promises.
The goal isn’t to interrogate—it’s to ensure the builder is transparent, licensed, and reliable.
Building a custom home is one of the most exciting milestones in life—but also one of the most complex. The choice of builder can make or break your experience. That’s why Ontario homeowners searching for custom home builders need more than glossy brochures. They need the right questions.
Below are 10 essential questions you should always ask before signing a contract. Each one addresses a pain point like fear of hiring the wrong builder, budget anxiety, or trust and communication concerns.
How to Use This List
- Shortlist at least two or three builders.
- Ask the same 10 questions in writing.
- Compare answers, proof, and references—not just promises.
The goal isn’t to interrogate—it’s to ensure the builder is transparent, licensed, and reliable.
Working With Home Builders in Ontario
Ontario has a unique system of consumer protection:
- Licensing through the HCRA (Home Construction Regulatory Authority). Every builder must be licensed and listed in the Ontario Builder Directory.
- Mandatory warranty coverage through Tarion, which protects buyers against defects, water issues, and structural failures.
- Municipal permits and inspections, ensuring compliance with the Ontario Building Code.
This layered oversight exists to reduce risk. But as a homeowner, you must still be proactive—asking smart questions reveals whether a builder is committed to more than the bare minimum.
1) Are you licensed with the HCRA?
Every builder in Ontario must be licensed. Ask for the company’s HCRA licence number and check it in the Ontario Builder Directory.
What to look for:
- Good standing with no suspensions.
- Clear business name that matches your contract.
- Conditions or warnings listed on their licence.
Tip: Some builders operate under different corporate names—confirm exactly which entity you’re signing with.
2) Is my home registered with Tarion, and what does it cover?
Tarion is the warranty program for all new homes in Ontario. Ask when your home will be registered, and request proof of enrollment.
Coverage highlights:
- 1 year: Materials and workmanship
- 2 years: Electrical, plumbing, heating, water penetration
- 7 years: Major structural defects
Ask how the builder manages post-closing service calls. Do they have a dedicated warranty team, or are you left on your own? The answer says a lot about long-term commitment.
3) What exactly is included—and excluded—in the scope?
Ambiguity in scope is a top cause of disputes. Insist on a detailed scope document listing both inclusions and exclusions.
Examples:
- Site prep: excavation, grading, septic/sewer hookups, tree removal.
- Interior finishes: flooring, cabinetry, countertops, fixtures, trim.
- Professional services: engineering, surveys, architectural revisions.
- Exclusions: landscaping, fencing, appliances, or specialty upgrades.
If it isn’t written down, assume it isn’t included.
4) Can I see an itemized, fixed-scope price?
Budgets unravel when estimates are vague. Request an itemized quote with clear breakdowns.
What to check:
- Allowances: Are they realistic for tile, lighting, appliances?
- Escalation rules: How are material price changes handled?
- Deposit terms: How much is due at contract vs. milestones?
A detailed estimate makes it easier to compare builders side by side.
5) What’s the realistic schedule, and what could delay it?
Time is money—and stress. Builders should provide a construction timeline covering major milestones: foundation, framing, rough-ins, drywall, finishes, inspections, and occupancy.
Ask:
- Which phases are most prone to delays?
- How often are schedules updated?
- How do you communicate changes?
No one can control the weather, but the right builder will show you contingency planning.
6) How do change orders and upgrades work?
You’ll almost certainly request upgrades or tweaks. Ask for a written change-order policy.
Best practices include:
- A standard form showing costs and timeline impacts.
- Cut-off dates for major selections.
- A running cost-to-complete tracker so you always know your balance.
This prevents surprises when invoices arrive.
7) Who manages permits, inspections, and code compliance?
Ontario’s building code and local bylaws can be complex. Confirm in writing who will:
- Prepare and submit permit applications.
- Schedule mandatory inspections.
- Correct deficiencies if flagged.
Builders who take responsibility here save you headaches and reduce the risk of occupancy delays.
8) Who supervises my site day-to-day?
Sales reps don’t run job sites. Ask who will be your site supervisor and project manager.
Good supervision looks like:
- Daily trade coordination.
- Weekly homeowner updates with photos.
- Pre-booked site tours at key phases.
Strong supervision = fewer mistakes and less rework.
9) What quality standards do you build to?
“High quality” means little unless it’s measured. Ask for specifics:
- Do you follow QA checklists?
- How do you verify air sealing, insulation, and waterproofing?
- Do you test for airtightness or energy performance?
- Can I see recent examples of your finish work?
Builders who track standards are confident showing their process.
10) Can I speak to recent clients and see a current site?
References are non-negotiable. Request three recent clients, ideally within the past 12 months.
Questions to ask references:
- Did the builder stay on schedule?
- How did they handle changes?
- How was the service after move-in?
Also ask to walk through a current build. A clean, safe, and organized site reflects professionalism.
For added context, industry publications like Home Builder Canada cover materials, trends, and building innovations that can help you ask sharper questions during site tours.
Next Steps
Your builder should make you feel confident, not overwhelmed. At XO Homes, we believe clarity and trust are as important as bricks and mortar.
- Learn more about our approach on the Why XO page.
- Start your project today by reaching out through the Contact XO Homes page.
Your dream home begins with the right questions—and the right partner to answer them.
FAQs
How do I check if a builder is licensed in Ontario?
Use the Ontario Builder Directory via the HCRA website. You can search by company name or licence number.
Do all new homes need Tarion coverage?
Yes. Tarion coverage is mandatory for consumer protection in Ontario.
What’s the risk of vague allowances?
If allowances are too low, you’ll pay extra later when selecting real finishes. Always confirm they’re realistic.
How do builders usually communicate with homeowners?
Best builders provide regular updates—often weekly—with photos, logs, or project management portals.
Where can I learn about new materials and construction practices?
Home Builder Canada is a respected resource for trends, materials, and building innovation.