When the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA) receives a complaint, it is carefully reviewed and evaluated using a risk-based framework to determine the most appropriate course of action.

The outcome will depend on the nature of the complaint and the findings of the review and may include the following:

No Further Action

The HCRA may decide that no action is necessary if the allegations in the complaint are not supported by evidence, or if the complaint falls outside the HCRA’s jurisdiction. In such cases, you will be informed and advised on more suitable channels to pursue the matter.

Resolution

The HCRA may seek to facilitate an early resolution between the complainant and the subject of the complaint to address the issue collaboratively.

Additional Outcomes

If a complaint is substantiated, the HCRA may take one or more of the following actions:

• Require the licensee to complete additional educational courses.
• Impose restrictions or conditions on the licence.
• Impose an Administrative Penalty, similar to a fine, on the licensee.
• Initiate legal proceedings in provincial court for charges under the New Home Construction Licensing Act, 2017, the Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act, or the Provincial Offences Act.
• In more serious cases, refuse, suspend or revoke a licence entirely.

If a complaint involves potential violations of the Code of Ethics, the HCRA may refer the matter to the Discipline Committee which may order a licensee to:

• Complete further educational courses.
• Fund educational courses for employees or arrange and pay for training.
• Pay fines of up to $50,000 for individual licensees and $100,000 for corporations, payable to the regulatory authority.
• Suspend or defer educational requirements or fines based on designated terms.
• Cover costs imposed by the HCRA.