Who should sign off the plumbing on an interior sump job in Barrhaven?

Plumber is a compulsory trade in Ontario under O. Reg. 876/21. The province says you cannot engage someone to do compulsory trade work unless they are authorized to do it, so ask whether a licensed plumber does or signs off the plumbing part of the sump installation before any work starts.

Do not assume who does the plumbing part: ask directly, and ask for the plumber's name so you can check the Skilled Trades Ontario Public Register yourself.

A few things worth confirming in writing before you sign:

• who pulls the building permit (the City of Ottawa requires one for a sump pit and pump installation)
• whether a licensed plumber does or signs off the plumbing connection, and who that person is
• the sump pit dimensions, since Ontario's Building Code requires the pit to be at least 750 mm deep and at least 0.25 m² in area, with a cover that resists removal by children and is airtight
• where the pump discharges, and whether a check valve and union are included in the line

You can check the Skilled Trades Ontario Public Register to confirm a plumber's authorization before the work begins.

Before you sign the contract, ask the contractor to name the licensed plumber who will do or sign off the plumbing connection, and confirm that person will be on site for the relevant part of the job.