Welcome to the Consumer Education & Resource Hub, providing educational content that supports consumer protection, education, and awareness related to home buying and ownership. The Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA) is committed to fulfilling its legislative mandate to “support consumer education and awareness about new home construction, ownership and maintenance.”
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As electric vehicle (EV) use continues to grow, EV Charging Systems (EVCS) are becoming an increasingly important part of condo living. In 2018, the Ontario government introduced new approval processes for installing EVCSs in condominium buildings, providing a clear framework for both owners and corporations to follow. The CAO’s step-by-step guide is available to help support you through these processes.
To protect yourself, be sure to use FSRA’s online resources to confirm that you’re working with a licensed mortgage brokerage, broker, agent, or administrator. Licensing ensures these professionals meet the required standards for education, experience, and suitability — helping you make informed and secure financial decisions.
Do you know that each condominium corporation in Ontario is governed by an owner-elected board of directors? If you are thinking about becoming a Director on your Condo Board, the CMRAO has gathered resources to assist you in understanding what your qualifications should be and what oversight duties you will take on in this volunteer role.
Health Canada has developed a guide to help homeowners identify, remediate and prevent such issues, and considerations for hiring a professional.
By law, all new homes built in Ontario are provided with a warranty by the builder. Tarion ensures that purchasers of new homes receive the coverage they are entitled to under their builder’s warranty. Check out their Homeowner Resource & Learning Hub.
Before you start the hunt for a new home, it is important to be informed. In Ontario, all real estate agents must be registered with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) to be eligible to trade in real estate. RECO has you covered with homebuyer and seller resources, including a Public Register of Realtors.
If you are exploring options to reduce your energy bills, or heat and cool your new or existing home, you might want to consider a heat pump system. Toronto Hydro and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) have developed many guides and tools for homeowners to help with you decide if a heat pump is right for you.
Whether you are a homeowner excited for your DYI project, or a licensed builder that has an electrician on staff, all electrical work on properties must meet the Ontario Electrical Safety Code and be conducted by an ESA licensed electrical contractor.
Whether you are a homeowner building a fence, or a builder looking to excavate, landscape or pave, you must contact Ontario One Call. It’s free, it’s easy, it’s the law.