Find a deck builder for your region

Ask for work with a similar deck height, material, railing, stairs, access, and site conditions. Request both a recent reference and an older one so you can ask how the project has held up.

Look for an itemized scope covering demolition, disposal, footings, framing, decking, fascia, stairs, railings, permits, cleanup, taxes, and any exclusions. If a feature is important, put it in writing.

Confirm who will check the permit path, prepare or coordinate drawings, submit the application, answer municipal comments, and book inspections. The responsibility and fee should be written into the contract.

Ask the contractor for current proof of liability insurance and confirm the named business and coverage period. Ask how WSIB rules apply to the company and any subcontractors; Ontario notes that a homeowner clearance-certificate exception can apply, so do not treat one document as a universal pass/fail badge.

Tie payments to clear milestones and require written change orders before extra work begins. The contract should say how hidden damage, access problems, material substitutions, delays, and price changes will be approved.

Separate the builder's workmanship commitment from the product manufacturer's warranty. Ask for the duration, exclusions, registration steps, maintenance requirements, and the process for reporting a problem in writing.