What should a written quote for a Gloucester ramp list?

A written quote for an entrance ramp should spell out exactly what you are getting and what it will cost, so you can compare bids and hold the contractor to the work described.

What the quote should list

Ask for these items in writing before you sign anything:

• The total rise the ramp will cover and the total run (horizontal length), with the slope expressed as a ratio so you can confirm it falls within the Ontario Building Code's 1 in 10 limit for an exterior ramp serving a house.
• The width of the ramp, which the Building Code sets at a minimum of 860 mm for a ramp serving a single dwelling unit.
• The number, size and location of landings, including whether a landing is needed where a door opens onto the ramp.
• Whether handrails are included. The Code does not require handrails on a house ramp that rises 400 mm or less; above that, they are required and must be 865 mm to 1 070 mm high. Ask the contractor to confirm whether your rise triggers that requirement.
• Whether a guard is needed. A guard is required where the drop beside the ramp or landing exceeds 600 mm.
• The surface finish, which must be wear-resistant, slip-resistant, and smooth and even under the Building Code.
• Materials and fasteners, described specifically enough that you know what is being built.
• A separate line for any permit fees. Ramps are not on either of the City's lists, and the City's deck page says a deck at the main entrance needs a permit, so ask how a ramp and landing will be treated. Ask the contractor whether a permit is included and who pulls it. The City's permit fee for alterations is $12.75 per $1,000 of construction value, with a minimum of $117 (City fee schedule, January 1, 2026).
• Labour and materials broken out, or at least a clear total with a description of scope.
• The contractor's full legal name, business address, and GST/HST number if they are registered.
• Start and completion dates, and what happens if the scope changes.

Published 2025-26 prices for a short modular entrance ramp run roughly $2,000 to $4,000; longer or custom ramps cost more. Things that move a quote up or down include the total rise and run, the number of landings, whether handrails and guards are required, and patching or finishing work around the existing entrance.

Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2002, if the agreement is signed somewhere other than the contractor's business premises (for example, at your home), it must be in writing and delivered to you, and you can cancel without any reason within 10 days after you receive the written copy. Also under that Act, a contractor cannot charge more than 10 per cent above any estimate included in the agreement.

The Construction Act requires you to hold back 10 per cent of the price as work is supplied; ask a lawyer about when it is safe to release that amount on a larger job.

If you would like to hear from local Ottawa contractors who do ramp work, the request form on this site sends your details to contractors listed in the Ottawa Construction Network directory.