The short answer? Yes. Technically, a homeowner can do their own electrical work in Ontario. But just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.
Let’s walk through what’s legally allowed, what it actually takes to do electrical work the right way, and why hiring a licensed electrical contractor like LB Electric in Ottawa is often the smarter (and safer) choice.
What the Law Says: DIY Electrical Work in Ontario
According to the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), homeowners in Ontario are legally authorized to perform electrical work in their own residential units. That means you can do your own electrical wiring, replace certain light fixtures, or even upgrade an outlet in your laundry room if you’re the homeowner and the work is for your own use.
However, you must follow the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, pull the proper electrical permits, and book all the required electrical inspections. And it doesn’t stop there—failing to meet safety standards can put your home, your family, and even your insurance at risk.
The Realities of DIY Electrical Work
Doing your own electrical might seem like a great way to save a few bucks, but there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye.
- Permits and Inspections: You’ll need to apply for electrical permits before you begin. Then, at several stages of the project, like the rough-in and the final inspection, an ESA inspector will visit to make sure your work meets the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.
- Understanding Electrical Permits: Getting a permit is more than paperwork. It’s an important document that verifies the work was done safely. For insurance purposes, some companies may even ask for a valid ESA Certificate to confirm that the electrical installations were approved.
- Complex Systems: Modern homes have more than just a few outlet boxes. From your main electrical panel to branch circuit wiring, vapour barriers, HVAC systems, and gas pipeline systems, electrical components are deeply connected to many parts of your home.
- Safety Risks: Electrical work done incorrectly can lead to shocks, fires, or worse. The Electrical Safety Authority stresses that only licensed electrical contractors should perform electrical work when safety is in question.
- You’re On Your Own: If something goes wrong during a DIY job, there’s no licensed electrician to call. Plus, working around propane storage, gas lines, and HVAC installations without experience is risky.
What Makes a Licensed Electrical Contractor Different?
A licensed electrical contracting business must have a valid electrical contractor’s licence issued by the ESA. That means they’ve passed strict qualifications, carry proper insurance, and follow technical standards that protect homeowners.
They also employ a master electrician, who is a person authorized to supervise work and make sure everything lines up with the latest safety authority rules.
Why Choose a Licensed Electrical Contractor?
Hiring a licensed contractor gives you peace of mind and protects your home, family, and investment. Here’s what you get:
- ESA Approval
Licensed contractors are approved by the Electrical Safety Authority, ensuring their work meets Ontario’s strict safety standards. - Liability Insurance
They carry a minimum of $2 million in liability insurance, protecting you in case of property damage or injury caused by electrical work. - Supervised by a Master Electrician
Every licensed contractor is required to have a designated Master Electrician who oversees all electrical work to ensure it complies with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. - Permits and Inspections
They take care of all necessary permits and arrange inspections—no shortcuts, no surprises. - Accountability and Professionalism
Licensed contractors are held to a high standard by the ESA. If something goes wrong, you have recourse through the ESA’s oversight and complaint resolution process.
When you hire a licensed electrical contractor like LB Electric, you get:
- Proper permits and ESA inspections handled for you
- A team trained to meet the highest safety standards
- A valid ESA certificate upon job completion
- Peace of mind for renovation residential projects, especially during major renovations
When DIY Electrical is Especially Risky
Some jobs are just not worth doing yourself:
- Installing a new electrical panel
- Working on branch circuit wiring
- Electrical upgrades in row housing
- Any job involving fuel industry certificates, propane, or HVAC installers
These jobs often require a licensed subcontractor, coordination with your local building authority, and sometimes even a building permit.
If you’re asking, how many inspections do I need? that’s another sign it’s probably time to call in the pros.
Why Homeowners in Ottawa Choose LB Electric
LB Electric is a trusted name in Ottawa for electrical contracting and upgrades. From light fixtures to full electrical panel installs, we’ve helped homeowners across the city with safe, code-compliant electrical work. Our team knows how to navigate residential notifications, handle final inspections, and work alongside general contractors when needed.
We also help you stay on top of your electrical needs without the stress of pulling your own permits or coordinating inspections. Doing a renovation, upgrading your wiring system, or adding outlets in a laundry room? LB Electric can help.
Final Word: Just Because You Can Doesn’t Mean You Should
So, can a homeowner do their own electrical in Ontario? Yes. But it involves understanding complex systems, following the electrical safety code, getting permits, and passing inspections. One mistake could cost you more than just time and money—it could put your home and family at risk.
For something this important, it’s worth doing right. That’s why so many homeowners in Ottawa turn to trusted, licensed professionals like LB Electric.
Got questions about your home’s electrical system? Don’t go it alone—call in the pros. Have questions about your home’s electrical system? Don’t go it alone, reach out to LB Electric for guidance and certified installation you can trust.
