In Ontario, Canada, obtaining an electrical permit is an essential requirement for most electrical work, whether it’s for residential, commercial or industrial purposes. A permit for electrical work is not the same as a building permit. The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) is the organization responsible for regulating and enforcing electrical safety standards in the province. The following article will outline the reasons why getting an electrical permit in Ontario is crucial and what the process entails.

Who Files The Permit?

What is commonly referred to as a Permit is actually called a “Notification of Electrical Work”. It is a requirement to file a Notification with the ESA within 48 hours of commencing most electrical work. Home owners are allowed to file a Notification of Electrical Work if they are performing the work on their own home. It is recommended that you hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor for any electrical work. When you do hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor they will likely be required to file a notification for the work they perform. Remember, you must never file a Notification on behalf of someone else doing the work. That means a home owner can not file a Notification for an electrician working on their home. Click here to find out the difference between a Licensed Electrician and a Licensed Electrical Contractor.

When Is a Notification of Electrical Work Necessary?

There are some cases when a Notification of Electrical Work is not mandatory. Some examples of this may be troubleshooting, repair and maintenance or replacing “like-for-like” devices. Typically though, a Notification of Electrical Work is required for any new installations. Even when not required, it may be a good idea to file one. This will help ensure your installation is up to code and meets the standards and safety regulations as set out by the ESA and The Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC). Click here to view the ESA’s bulletin on when Notification is not required.

You Can Help Promote Safety and Regulation

The primary purpose of the OESC and other regulations is to ensure the safety of both electrical workers and the general public. The permit process is designed to ensure that electrical work is carried out by licensed and qualified electricians who have undergone the necessary training and certification. An electrical permit also ensures that the work is inspected and approved by a qualified electrical inspector. This process helps to minimize the risk of electrical fires, electrocution, and other potential hazards.

Having an electrical permit can also be crucial when it comes to insurance coverage. Insurance companies often require proof that all electrical work was performed according to the appropriate standards and regulations. Failing to obtain the necessary permits could invalidate your insurance policy, leaving you liable for any damages resulting from electrical issues.

If you plan to sell your property, having all electrical work properly permitted and inspected can be beneficial. Prospective buyers may request to see proof of permits and inspections to ensure that the electrical systems are up to code and safe. Proper permitting and inspection can help to increase the value of your property and reduce the risk of legal or financial issues down the road.

What is the Process?

The process of obtaining an electrical permit in Ontario is straightforward. It involves submitting an application to the ESA and paying the associated fee. The ESA will then review the application and provide a Notification Confirmation. Once the work is complete, your Licensed Electrical Contractor will schedule an electrical inspector to visit the site. The inspector will ensure that the work was performed according to the appropriate standards and issue a Certificate of Acceptance.

In Conclusion

Getting an electrical permit in Ontario is critical for legal compliance, safety, insurance coverage, resale value, and peace of mind. It is always best to work with a Licensed Electrical Contractor. The LEC will guide you through the permit process and ensure that all work is completed to the highest standard. By obtaining an electrical permit and following the proper procedures, you can help to keep your property and everyone who uses it safe from electrical hazards. By following the legal requirements of the notification process you help promote the safety standards and regulation within the trade. This helps reduce unlicensed, unsafe and illegal electrical work. Click here to find out about our services.