How much does an electrician charge per hour in Ottawa?

Electricians in Ottawa typically charge between $80-$150 per hour, with most licensed contractors falling in the $100-$120 range for standard residential work. Emergency calls and after-hours service usually command premium rates of $150-$200+ per hour.

The hourly rate varies significantly based on several factors. Experience level plays a major role - apprentice electricians working under supervision might bill at $80-$90 per hour, while master electricians with 15+ years of experience typically charge $120-$150 per hour. Type of work also affects pricing, with complex troubleshooting, panel work, or specialized installations like EV chargers commanding higher rates than basic outlet replacements.

Many electrical contractors in Ottawa prefer project-based pricing rather than strict hourly billing. This approach often provides better value for homeowners because it eliminates uncertainty about final costs. For example, a panel upgrade might be quoted as a flat $2,500-$3,500 rather than "however many hours it takes at $120/hour." This protects you from unexpected complications that could extend the job timeline.

Emergency service rates are substantially higher, typically starting at $150-$200 for the first hour, with some contractors charging up to $250 for middle-of-the-night calls. However, many electrical issues that seem like emergencies can wait until regular business hours - unless you're dealing with sparking, burning smells, or complete power loss.

ESA permit costs are separate from labor rates and typically run $75-$150 depending on the scope of work. Licensed electricians include permit pulling in their service, but the ESA fees are usually passed through to the homeowner. Remember that most electrical work in Ontario requires permits - attempting to skip this step to save money can result in insurance claim denials and safety hazards.

When comparing electrician rates in Ottawa, focus on total project value rather than just hourly rates. A contractor charging $100/hour who completes quality work efficiently often costs less than someone charging $80/hour who works slowly or creates problems requiring callbacks. Always verify that your electrician is ESA-licensed, WSIB-insured, and pulls proper permits.

For accurate pricing on your specific electrical project, request quotes from multiple licensed contractors. Electrical Ottawa connects you with vetted ESA-licensed electricians who provide transparent, competitive pricing for Ottawa-area homeowners.

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Find a Licensed Electrician

Electrical Ottawa connects you with vetted, ESA-licensed electricians from the Ottawa Construction Network:Ottawa Electrical Contractors:

• Mike Fuller Electric
• LB Electric
• Capital Electrical Solutions