How to Hire a Licensed Electrician in Ontario
Electrical work is safety-critical and regulated, so verifying the contractor licence matters more here than in almost any other trade. This checklist is written for Ontario homeowners.
Licensing in Ontario
In Ontario, any business that does electrical work for hire must be a Licensed Electrical Contractor registered with the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). The company is issued an ECRA/ESA licence number, which should appear on quotes, invoices, and vehicles. Individual electricians hold a Certificate of Qualification, such as the 309A construction and maintenance electrician. You can verify a contractor's licence on the ESA public contractor lookup.
A licensed contractor is also responsible for taking out an ESA electrical permit, sometimes called a notification of work, on most jobs, and the work is subject to ESA inspection. If a contractor suggests skipping the permit, treat it as a red flag.
1. Confirm the ECRA/ESA contractor licence
In Ontario a business doing electrical work for hire must be a Licensed Electrical Contractor with an ECRA/ESA licence number. Ask for it and verify it on the ESA public contractor lookup before any work begins.
2. Check that an ESA permit will be taken out
Most electrical work requires an ESA notification, or permit, and the contractor rather than you is responsible for filing it. Confirm the permit and any inspection are included in the quote.
3. Check insurance and WSIB coverage
A legitimate contractor carries liability insurance and WSIB coverage for their workers. Ask for proof. An uninsured worker injured on your property can expose you.
4. Get itemized written quotes from at least three contractors
Compare materials, labour, permit, and the scope of work in writing. A quote far below the others often excludes the permit or uses lower-grade materials.
5. Ask about the workmanship warranty
Confirm in writing how long the contractor stands behind the work and what is covered, separate from any manufacturer warranty on fixtures or panels.
6. Read recent reviews and ask for local references
Look for a pattern of recent reviews in your own city, and ask for two recent local references for work similar to yours.
Ready to start? Browse electricians by Ontario city and use this checklist when you call.