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Property Owner and Manager Obligations

Regardless of building type, all electrical work on properties must meet the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. This includes filing notifications with ESA before or within 48 hours of the electrical work starting. Notifications and ESA review of the work are almost always required, even if you have an electrician on staff.   

Not following the law could put Property Owners and Managers at risk. You might have insurance claims denied. You risk penalties or charges under the Electricity Act. You also compromise the safety of tenants and visitors in the building.

On this page:

Complying with the Law
Find a Licensed Electrical Contractor
Simplifying Business

Complying with the Law

A new lessee? Renewing a lease? New and existing tenants often renovate their space after signing a lease. Renovations and repairs involving electrical work must meet the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. Here are some things you need to know when planning electrical work:

  • File a Notification of Work with ESA.
    • Most electrical work needs a notification of work filed to the Electrical Safety Authority, regardless who does the work or in which building type. The person doing the work must file this before or within 48 hours of the start of the electrical work. To confirm notification requirements and to get your notification, call 1-877-ESA-SAFE 
  • Doing the work yourself?
    • Whomever does the work, you must always follow the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, including filing a notification of work.
  • Only hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor
  • Have it reviewed.
    • You must make arrangements for ESA to review the work at each stage of the installation. Request an inspection for an existing notification by calling the Customer Service Centre, 1-877-ESA-SAFE (372-7233). 
  • Follow the Ontario Electrical Safety Code 
    • The code is regularly updated to address emerging technology and improvements in electrical safety practices. Always refer to the current edition of the Code. Purchase a Code book here.

Find a Licensed Electrical Contractor

ESA makes it easy for you to find a Licensed Electrical Contractor or confirm that your contractor holds a valid licence. Look up a contractor by postal code or name. You can also check that a contractor has a licence by entering their number or name.

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Find a Licensed Electrical Contractor Near You

Ensure you hire someone who can legally do electrical work in Ontario.

Simplifying Business

ESA offers property managers Continuous Safety Services (CSS). This streamlined notification, inspection and safety process helps your business run more efficiently.

More than 28,000 locations across Ontario use ESA’s CSS program. We work with diverse businesses and customize programs specific to their needs. Learn more about the CSS program.

ESA provides some types of electrical wiring work considered non-regulatory services. Find out more about these services.