Does the ESA inspect residential renovation work?

Yes, the ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) inspects most residential renovation electrical work in Ontario. Any electrical work that requires a permit must be inspected by ESA before it can be legally energized and considered complete.

Renovation work that requires ESA permits and inspection includes:

• Adding new circuits or outlets


• Panel upgrades or replacements


• Installing dedicated circuits (for appliances, EV chargers, hot tubs)


• Rewiring projects (knob and tube removal, aluminum wiring updates)


• Moving or adding electrical panels or subpanels


• Installing new lighting circuits


• Any work involving new electrical connections

The inspection process is straightforward but mandatory. Your licensed electrician pulls the permit before starting work, completes the installation to Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards, then requests an ESA inspection. The inspector typically arrives within 3-5 business days to verify the work meets code requirements. Once approved, ESA issues a Certificate of Inspection, which you'll need for insurance purposes and future home sales.

However, some basic renovation electrical work doesn't require permits or inspection:

• Replacing outlets, switches, or light fixtures on existing circuits (like-for-like replacements)


• Installing new light bulbs or changing fixture styles on the same circuit


• Replacing smoke detector units (but not adding new ones or changing circuits)

Important renovation considerations: If your renovation involves opening walls, this is often the perfect time to upgrade old wiring systems like knob and tube or aluminum wiring. ESA inspectors will flag safety issues they observe, even if they're not part of the current permit scope. Many Ottawa homeowners discover during renovations that their electrical systems need updates to meet current safety standards.

The inspection fee (typically $75-150 depending on scope) is included in your electrician's quote and ensures your renovation electrical work is safe and code-compliant. This protects your family and maintains your home insurance coverage.

For your specific renovation project, consult with an ESA-licensed electrician who can determine what permits are needed and handle the inspection process for you.