Homeowner

Behind The Walls

4 Tips for Planning Your Reno's Electrical Work

Planning a renovation? What’s behind the walls is just as important as what you put on them. An electrical misstep in planning or executing could turn your reno into a nightmare. Here are some helpful tips to achieve a reno that is on-trend and powered to perform.

1. Assemble the right team
   You have a vision for your renovation. So, what’s next? Hiring the right professionals for the job. From a skilled designer to qualified tradespeople, each pro you add to your team will help achieve your dream reno and meet safety standards.
2. Always hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor
   Don’t assume your designer or general contractor is hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor — make sure you ask. It’s the safest and most cost-effective decisions you can make. In Ontario, only a Licensed Electrical Contractor can legally do electrical work for hire. Plus, a Licensed Electrical Contractor is required to handle the details when it comes to electrical work, including filing a notification of work to the Electrical Safety Authority for review of the electrical work. Ensure you hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor. Their ECRA/ESA license number should be everywhere: on their business card, the quote provided, and even on their truck. You can also verify them by visiting findacontractor.esasafe.com.
3. Plan on paper
   When thinking about a reno, start with a plan. Think about your lifestyle when designing your space. Do you want an open kitchen island for entertaining or would you prefer your cooktop built in? Will your TV be mounted or in an entertainment unit? A designer and Licensed Electrical Contractor can help determine the right location for appliances and electronics early in the planning process. It’s a lot easier (and less expensive) to erase plans when they’re on paper versus making updates after everything is installed.
4. Develop a lighting plan
   Lighting is an important part of every room. There are four types of lighting to consider— ambient, task, accent, and decorative lighting—and each has its own unique electrical requirements. Your Licensed Electrical Contractor can help identify the requirements early and advise on different options, like dimmers, to achieve the ambiance you’re dreaming of.