How do I know if an electrician is ESA verified?

In Ottawa and throughout Ontario, you can verify an electrician's ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) license through the official ESA contractor lookup tool at esasafe.com/contractor-locator.

This verification is crucial because only Licensed Electrical Contractors (LECs) can legally pull electrical permits in Ontario, and all electrical work - from simple outlet installations to complete rewiring - requires ESA permits and inspections.

Here's exactly how to verify an electrician's ESA credentials in Ottawa:

Step 1: Use the Official ESA Lookup
Go to licensing.esasafe.com and search by the contractor's business name, license number, or location. The database shows active Licensed Electrical Contractors with their license numbers, business addresses, and license status. Make sure the license is current and active.

Step 2: Ask for Their LEC Number
Every legitimate electrical contractor in Ontario has a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) number. Ask to see their ESA license certificate or card, which should display this number clearly. Be wary of anyone who can't immediately provide this information.

Step 3: Verify They Can Pull Permits
In Ottawa, electrical permits must be pulled by the LEC, not a subcontractor or employee. When you call City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424, confirm that your contractor can pull permits under their own license. Some contractors work under other companies' licenses, which can complicate warranty and liability issues.

Red Flags to Watch For
Be extremely cautious of anyone who suggests skipping permits for electrical work - this is illegal in Ontario and can void your home insurance. Also avoid contractors who say they'll "get permits later" or work under someone else's license without clear documentation. If an electrician can't provide their LEC number immediately or suggests cash-only payments to "save on permits," walk away.

ESA Inspection Requirements
Remember that in Ottawa, all electrical work requires ESA inspection regardless of scope. The inspection fee is typically $100-200, and your contractor should coordinate this as part of their service. The ESA inspector will verify the work meets Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards before issuing a Certificate of Inspection.

Additional Protection
Beyond ESA licensing, verify your electrician carries WSIB coverage through wsib.ca/clearances and has liability insurance. For electrical work in Ottawa, you want contractors who understand both ESA requirements and City of Ottawa permit processes, ensuring your project is fully compliant and properly documented.

For verified electrical contractors in the Ottawa area, check our directory at https://ottawaconstructionnetwork.com/directory where all listed electricians have confirmed ESA licensing and local experience.