What is an ESA inspection and when is it required?

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

The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) is Ontario's electrical safety regulator, and they require inspections for virtually any electrical work beyond basic maintenance like changing light bulbs or outlets. In Ottawa, this applies whether you hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) or do the work yourself as a homeowner.

When ESA Inspections Are Required in Ottawa

ESA inspections are mandatory for electrical work including new panel installations, circuit additions, rewiring, new outlets or lighting circuits, electric vehicle charging station installations, hot tub or pool electrical connections, and any electrical work for renovations or additions. Even seemingly simple projects like adding a new outlet in your Kanata basement or installing under-cabinet lighting in your Barrhaven kitchen require ESA permits and inspections.

The inspection must happen before the electrical work is energized and covered up. For major renovations in Ottawa neighborhoods like Orleans or Nepean, you'll typically need a rough-in inspection (before drywall) and a final inspection (after completion).

How the Process Works in Ottawa

Only Licensed Electrical Contractors can pull ESA permits for customers, though homeowners can obtain their own permits if doing the work themselves. You can verify any contractor's ESA license at esasafe.com/contractor-locator before hiring them. The contractor or homeowner requests the inspection through ESA's online portal, and ESA typically schedules inspections within 1-2 business days in the Ottawa area.

Current ESA inspection fees in Ontario are approximately $100-200 depending on the scope of work. The inspector will check that all work meets code requirements, proper materials were used, connections are secure, and proper grounding and bonding are in place.

What Happens During the Inspection

The ESA inspector will examine all electrical work against the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. They'll check wire sizing, circuit protection, grounding systems, and installation methods. If everything passes, you'll receive a Certificate of Inspection. If there are deficiencies, the inspector will provide a list of corrections needed before re-inspection.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be extremely cautious of any contractor who suggests skipping the ESA inspection or says "it's not required for this job." This is a major red flag and potentially illegal. Similarly, contractors who can't provide their ESA license number or seem unfamiliar with the inspection process should be avoided.

For major electrical work in Ottawa, always verify your contractor is properly licensed through the ESA contractor locator at esasafe.com. You can also contact ESA directly at 1-877-372-7233 if you have questions about permit requirements for your specific project.

The ESA inspection isn't just bureaucracy - it's your protection against electrical fires, electrocution, and insurance issues. Never skip this crucial safety step for any electrical work in your Ottawa home.