What’s Changing for Home Renovations in Ontario
If you’re managing home renovations in Ontario and searching for eavestrough installers near me, it’s important to understand recent legal changes affecting homeowners like you.
New updates to the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the Construction Act mean that if you hire multiple tradespeople—such as plumbers, electricians, and eavestrough installers—you may legally become the “constructor” of your project.
A notable case, known as the Littler case, clarified that project owners can be deemed “employers” under OHSA, making you responsible for workplace health and safety even if you’re not a professional contractor.
New updates to the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the Construction Act mean that if you hire multiple tradespeople—such as plumbers, electricians, and eavestrough installers—you may legally become the “constructor” of your project.
A notable case, known as the Littler case, clarified that project owners can be deemed “employers” under OHSA, making you responsible for workplace health and safety even if you’re not a professional contractor.
Definition of “Constructor” under OHSA
Under OHSA, a “constructor” isn’t just a licensed contractor. It’s defined as any person, including an owner, who undertakes all or part of a construction project either by themselves or through multiple employers.
What does this mean for you? If you’re coordinating multiple trades on your home renovation—such as hiring an eavestrough installer along with other specialists—you may have the same legal duties and responsibilities as a general contractor.
What does this mean for you? If you’re coordinating multiple trades on your home renovation—such as hiring an eavestrough installer along with other specialists—you may have the same legal duties and responsibilities as a general contractor.
Responsibilities of a Homeowner-Constructor
As a homeowner acting as a constructor, OHSA requires you to:
- Ensure workplace health and safety on your renovation site
- Provide necessary safety training and personal protective equipment
- Post safety notices and keep records of training and inspections
- Exercise due diligence by taking “every precaution reasonable” to prevent injuries or accidents
Meeting these responsibilities can be complex and time-consuming, especially without construction experience
Liability and Insurance Considerations
Recent court rulings confirm that homeowners who become constructors can be held liable for safety violations or workplace incidents, even if the work is performed by subcontractors.
This means you might need:
This means you might need:
- Special WSIB coverage or insurance for your renovation project
- Proof that all subcontractors, including eavestrough installers, carry proper insurance
- To understand the financial risks if safety regulations aren’t followed
Impacts on Your Eavestrough Project
If you decide to coordinate your eavestrough installation yourself without a licensed main contractor, you inherit legal responsibility for the project’s safety and compliance.
DIY gutter or eavestrough work carries risks—not only of injury but of legal and financial headaches. Improper installation can lead to property damage, costly repairs, and liability issues.
That’s why choosing a professional and insured company is crucial.
DIY gutter or eavestrough work carries risks—not only of injury but of legal and financial headaches. Improper installation can lead to property damage, costly repairs, and liability issues.
That’s why choosing a professional and insured company is crucial.
Why Hire Professionals Like Bronson Johnson
At Bronson Johnson Seamless Eavestroughs, we take the stress and risk off your shoulders by:
- Acting as the constructor for your project, assuming full safety and legal responsibility
- Following all OHSA safety standards and maintaining full WSIB and liability insurance
- Managing scheduling, compliance, and quality control with expert precision
Our certified team in Ottawa ensures your eavestrough installation is safe, professional, and worry-free—giving you peace of mind every step of the way.
Simplify Your Renovation with Bronson Johnson
Managing a renovation can be complicated, but your choice of contractor doesn’t have to be.
Instead of risking DIY or uncertain contractors, let Bronson Johnson be your trusted partner for safe, compliant, and expert eavestrough installation.
Contact us today to book a consultation or get a no-obligation quote!
Instead of risking DIY or uncertain contractors, let Bronson Johnson be your trusted partner for safe, compliant, and expert eavestrough installation.
Contact us today to book a consultation or get a no-obligation quote!
Request a Free Quote
Contact us to learn more about our eavestroughs services and request a free quote.
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Thank you for reaching out to Bronson Johnson, we look forward to assisting you!
Once you hit submit, rest assured we have received your request! There’s no need to resend it, it’s in good hands.
A member of our team will review your message and get back to you as soon as possible.
Thank you for reaching out to Bronson Johnson, we look forward to assisting you!