Hiring a pro safely

• Check insurance — liability insurance protects you if something goes wrong in your home.
• Check licences where the law requires them. In Ontario, electrical work for hire must be done by a Licensed Electrical Contractor (ESA), and gas appliance work needs a TSSA-certified technician.
• Get it in writing — scope, price, timing and what's not included.
• Don't pay everything up front. A reasonable deposit is normal; the balance follows the work.
• Keep messages in one place so you have a record.

Genie pros are ID-verified, and verified licences and insurance show as badges on their profile.