Mandatory licences and renovation requirements in Quebec

Is a contractor licence mandatory for residential renovation work?

Yes. In Quebec, every renovation contractor must hold a licence issued by the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) to carry out residential renovation work. Their licence number and business name must appear on all marketing materials, business cards, and company vehicles. 

General contractor or specialized contractor: Which one should you choose?

Even though they may perform some work themselves, a general contractor also manages the overall project and oversees all work performed by specialized contractors. In other words, the general contractor is responsible for the entire renovation site, while the specialized contractor must operate strictly within their certified area of expertise. 

However, a specialized contractor may also hire another type of contractor if additional expertise is needed. For example, if a plumber opens a wall for pipe installation, they may hire a finishing contractor to repair it. 

Visit the RBQ website to verify what each type of licence holder is authorized to do. You will also find the detailed list of licence subcategories, from electrical work licences to plumbing licences, including contractor licence requirements.  

Choosing the right contractor is key to ensuring high-quality work and compliance with all applicable building codes and RBQ regulations. 

Which licences are required for each type of renovation project?

Outdoor work 

Exterior residential work does not always require a licence. Here are a few examples: 

• Residential landscaping, such as driveway paving 

• Pool installation in the backyard 

• Building a detached deck or patio not attached to the house 

Good to know: A Quebec contractor licence becomes mandatory whenever the work is directly connected to the building structure. A licence is also required for electrical work or plumbing work. 

Painting or demolition 

Painting and finishing work require Licence 9.0 (finishing work). 

Demolition work may be performed by a general contractor or a contractor holding Licence 2.7 (site work). A specialized contractor may also carry out demolition if it pertains directly to their field. For example, a masonry contractor may demolish exterior brick facing. 

Pipes and drains 

Drain cleaning or unclogging does not require an RBQ licence as long as the plumbing system is not modified. 

Home theatre 

Installing a home theatre system does not require a licence. However, if wiring must be routed through walls or floors, Licence 17.2 (intercom, phone and monitoring systems) is required. 

Cabinets and countertops 

Restoring or modifying kitchen or bathroom cabinets is not regulated by the RBQ as long as the building structure is not altered. Otherwise, Licence 12.0 (factory-built cabinets and countertops) may be required. 

Locks 

A locksmith does not require an RBQ licence to repair a lock but must hold a permit from the Bureau de la sécurité privée. If work involves modifying the door itself, Licence 8.0 (doors and windows) is required. 

Requirements from associations, corporations, or other organizations

Even if some renovation projects do not require an RBQ licence, they may be regulated by other authorities or professional organizations. This applies to: 

• Water or air testing (Ministry of Environment) 

• Pest control (Association québécoise de la gestion parasitaire) 

• Renovation design plans (Régie du bâtiment du Québec) 

• Chimney sweeping (Association professionnelle du chauffage) 

• Tree cutting and removal (Municipal by-laws) 

Some projects may also require competency certificates. For example, in landscaping, a heavy-equipment operator or cement finisher must hold the appropriate certification. 

For which renovation projects are CCQ certificates of competency required?

The competency certificates are issued by the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ). It is required to work on sites regulated by Law R-20 (Act respecting labour relations, vocational training and workforce management in the construction industry). 

The competency certificate ensures that the holder has the proper training, qualifications, and RBQ-approved exam results. Here are some examples of situations where it is required: 

Rental property renovations 

A CCQ competency certificate is required for renovation work performed in a rental property or when enlarging a home. 

Should you request a competency certificate on-site? 

Yes, if the renovation is performed on construction sites governed by Law R-20. A valid certificate confirms that the worker is trained and has passed RBQ exams. It is mandatory for rental housing, home extensions, and work involving electricity, gas or heating-oil systems. 

Electrical, oil and gas work 

A competency certificate is required for electrical work or work on oil- or gas-powered equipment, whether performed in a primary residence or a rental unit. 

If unsure, contact the CAA-Quebec Residential Advisory Services. You can also use our search tool to find a licensed contractor in your area. 

Can I renovate my home myself without a licence?

Yes. You do not need an RBQ licence or a competency certificate if you are performing renovation work on your primary residence, provided it generates no rental income. The same rule applies to owner builders who perform work on their own home. 

Why do you need a renovation permit?

Licences and competency certificates help ensure you hire qualified professionals. A renovation permit, issued by your municipality, guarantees occupant safety, zoning compliance, and sometimes the protection of heritage value. 

Once you obtain the required building permits, ensure that all legal obligations are respected until the project is fully completed. These regulations ensure the quality, safety, and compliance of residential renovation work in Quebec.