What happens if electrical work is done without a permit?

In Ottawa and across Ontario, electrical work done without an ESA permit is illegal and creates serious safety, insurance, and legal risks that can cost homeowners thousands of dollars.

When electrical work is completed without the required Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) permit, you're facing multiple potential consequences. The ESA has authority under Ontario's Electrical Safety Code to investigate unpermitted work, and they actively do so through complaints, home sales inspections, and insurance investigations.

Immediate Safety and Legal Risks

The most serious concern is safety - unpermitted electrical work hasn't been inspected to ensure it meets Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards. This creates fire and electrocution hazards that put your family at risk. From a legal standpoint, all electrical work in Ontario requires an ESA permit, whether done by a Licensed Electrical Contractor or by homeowners themselves.

If discovered, the ESA can issue orders requiring you to bring the work up to code, which often means tearing out walls to expose the wiring for inspection. This process typically costs 2-3 times more than doing it right initially, especially in Ottawa's older homes where accessing electrical systems can be complex.

Insurance Complications

Your home insurance may deny claims related to electrical fires or damage if they discover unpermitted work. Insurance companies routinely investigate electrical-related claims and will request ESA documentation. Without proper permits and inspections, you could face complete claim denial, leaving you personally liable for tens of thousands in damages.

Real Estate Transaction Problems

When selling your home in Ottawa, buyers' home inspectors and lawyers often request electrical permits for any work done. Without proper ESA documentation, you may need to:

• Hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor to assess and certify the work


• Apply for retroactive permits (if possible)


• Complete full rewiring if the work doesn't meet code


• Reduce your selling price to account for the electrical issues

ESA Enforcement Process

The ESA can investigate through their complaint hotline (1-877-372-7233) or during routine inspections. They have authority to:

• Issue compliance orders requiring immediate corrections


• Disconnect electrical service until work is brought to code


• Impose fines up to $50,000 for individuals


• Require complete re-inspection of your home's electrical system

Getting Back into Compliance

If you discover unpermitted work in your Ottawa home, contact a Licensed Electrical Contractor immediately. They can assess whether the work meets current Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards and help you obtain retroactive permits where possible. You can verify contractors through the ESA website at esasafe.com/contractor-locator.

The contractor will need to expose enough of the work for ESA inspection, which typically costs $150-300 for the inspection plus whatever corrections are needed. In some cases, if the work significantly violates code, complete replacement may be required.

Remember, the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) can also provide guidance on when building permits are required alongside ESA electrical permits, particularly for renovations involving structural changes or new electrical panels.

The bottom line: unpermitted electrical work is never worth the risk. Always use Licensed Electrical Contractors and obtain proper ESA permits to protect your family, your investment, and your peace of mind.