HCRA licenses and disciplines builders; Tarion administers the warranty and pays claims. Conduct complaints go to HCRA, warranty claims to Tarion.

How do I check a builder?

Search the Ontario Builder Directory for licence status, conditions and conduct history before you sign anything.

What if my builder isn't licensed?

Report it to the HCRA. Buying from an unlicensed vendor can also affect warranty coverage, so get legal advice before proceeding.

HCRA Ontario — Home Builder Licensing & Complaints

Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA)

The HCRA licenses new home builders and vendors in Ontario, a function split from Tarion in 2021. Tarion handles warranty claims; the HCRA handles who is allowed to build and sell. Its public Ontario Builder Directory shows licence status and conduct history — checking it before signing a purchase agreement is basic due diligence that buyers routinely skip.

What it does

Licenses new home builders and vendors
Maintains the public Ontario Builder Directory
Investigates builder conduct and imposes discipline
Enforces against unlicensed building and selling

Matters it hears

Builder licence applications, conditions and revocations
Conduct complaints against licensed builders
Illegal building or selling without a licence

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT).

Licensing decisions may be appealed to the Licence Appeal Tribunal.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

HCRA or Tarion?: HCRA licenses and disciplines builders; Tarion administers the warranty and pays claims. Conduct complaints go to HCRA, warranty claims to Tarion.
How do I check a builder?: Search the Ontario Builder Directory for licence status, conditions and conduct history before you sign anything.
What if my builder isn't licensed?: Report it to the HCRA. Buying from an unlicensed vendor can also affect warranty coverage, so get legal advice before proceeding.

Get matched with a lawyer

Tell us about your situation and we'll connect you with verified firms that handle it. It's free and there's no obligation.

General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA). Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.