What is an ESA inspection and when is it required?

An ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) inspection is a mandatory safety check required for all electrical work in Ontario, including Ottawa, to ensure installations meet the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.

In Ottawa and across Ontario, you need an ESA inspection whenever electrical work is performed - whether it's adding new outlets, upgrading your electrical panel, installing a hot tub, or rewiring portions of your home. The ESA is the provincial authority that oversees electrical safety, and their inspection confirms that all electrical work has been completed safely and meets code requirements.

When ESA Inspections Are Required

You'll need an ESA inspection for virtually any electrical work beyond basic maintenance like changing light bulbs or plugging in appliances. This includes installing new circuits, adding outlets or switches, electrical panel upgrades, outdoor electrical work, pool and hot tub installations, electric vehicle charging stations, and any electrical work associated with renovations or additions.

Even if you're doing the electrical work yourself as a homeowner (which Ontario law allows), you still must obtain an ESA permit and inspection. However, if you hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC), they will handle obtaining the permit and scheduling the inspection for you.

The Ottawa ESA Inspection Process

When electrical work is completed in Ottawa, the contractor or homeowner contacts ESA to schedule an inspection. The ESA inspector will examine the work to ensure it meets safety standards, is properly installed, and follows the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. Current ESA inspection fees typically range from $100-200 depending on the scope of work.

You can verify that your contractor is properly licensed through the ESA website at esasafe.com/contractor-locator. Only Licensed Electrical Contractors can pull electrical permits in Ontario, and working with an unlicensed electrician puts you at risk both legally and from an insurance perspective.

What Happens During the Inspection

The ESA inspector will check that all electrical connections are secure, circuits are properly protected, grounding is adequate, and the installation follows code requirements. If the work passes inspection, you'll receive an ESA Certificate of Inspection - keep this document as proof that the work was completed safely and legally.

If the work doesn't pass, the inspector will provide a list of deficiencies that must be corrected before a re-inspection. There are additional fees for re-inspections, typically around $100-150.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be wary of any electrical contractor who suggests skipping the ESA inspection or claims it's not necessary. Some unscrupulous contractors may try to avoid inspections because their work won't pass. Always insist on proper permits and inspections - your insurance may not cover electrical fires or damage from unpermitted work.

For electrical work in Ottawa, contact ESA directly at 1-877-372-7233 or visit esasafe.com. You can also verify contractor licenses and check inspection requirements on their website. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) can provide information about when electrical permits might also require a building permit for your specific project.