Ontario

How do I search the Ontario Business Registry for a contractor?

Ontario's business registry offers a free public search. It tells you whether the name on the quote is a registered Ontario corporation, business name or partnership, and whether it is active.

The free steps

  1. 1. Start with the exact name on the quote

    Write down the business name exactly as the quote prints it, including Ltd., Inc. or a number. A trade name, a numbered company and a sole proprietorship can all be registered under other words, so if a search shows nothing, ask the contractor which name and number appear on their registration or licence before you read anything into it.

  2. 2. Open the Ontario Business Registry

    The Government of Ontario's registry page links the public search. Search the exact business name.

    Official source: Ontario Business Registry (Government of Ontario; checked 2026-10-20).

  3. 3. Read the type, the number and the status

    A corporation, a registered business name and a partnership are different records. Note the number and whether the record is active.

  4. 4. Compare the record with the quote

    The name on the quote, the invoice and the receipt should carry the registered name or the registered business name. Ask about any difference.

  5. 5. If nothing comes up

    A record that is not found is not evidence of wrongdoing. Ask the contractor which name and number appear on their registration, and search by number.

Every step for a contractor in Ontario

Questions people ask

Does an Ontario registration mean the contractor is licensed?

No. Licences come from the city (Toronto licenses building renovators), from the ESA for electrical work, from the HCRA for new-home builders, and from Skilled Trades Ontario's register for compulsory trades.

Or ask Jay

Jay does these steps for you and writes up what the records show, with the source and date for each finding. The $39 Full Check (no tax added) also reads your quote and insurance papers, and a person reviews every Full Check before it goes out. The $19 Quick Check is opening soon.

Order a Full CheckSee a sample Full Check

Three quotes. One Jay check. Then the deposit.

Information, not a verdict. A record that is not found is not evidence of wrongdoing, and nothing here is legal, insurance or safety advice.

Published 2026-10-20; sources last checked on the dates shown beside each step.