How to Check if an Electrician is Licensed in Ontario, Canada?
How to Check if an Electrician is Licensed in Ontario?
When it comes to electrical work, a lot of people have safety and quality at the forefront of your mind. After all, working with wires is inherently risky task. That is why most of the people prefer hiring a licensed electrician to ensure that electrical projects are done correctly and safely. However, most of the people are uncertain whether they hired an electrician that is properly licensed and insured or not.
In this comprehensive guide, we will help you understand how to check if an electrician or electrical contractor is licensed in Ontario, so you can make informed decisions for your electrical needs.
Why Hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor Matters?
Electrical work is not something to be taken lightly. It involves complex systems that, when mishandled, can result in safety hazards and property damage.
Licensed Electrical Contractors (LECs) are the only businesses in Ontario that are legally authorized to do electrical work in your home. Qualified electricians and Master Electricians are not permitted to perform work for hire.
They have a 7-digit ECRA/ESA licence number that proves they are authorized to offer electrical work to the public in Ontario. It appears on their vehicles, business cards and estimates.
Hiring a licensed electrical contractor in Ontario provides you with the following benefits:
1. Safety:
Licensed electricians have undergone rigorous training to handle electrical systems safely. They are well-versed in safety protocols, reducing the risk of accidents.
2. Quality:
Licensed electricians are held to high industry standards, ensuring that the work they perform is of high quality. This means fewer electrical issues in the long run.
3. Compliance:
Licensed electricians are well-versed in local electrical codes and regulations. They ensure that all work is done in compliance with these standards.
4. Insurance:
Hiring a licensed electrician often means that any accidents or damage that may occur during the project are covered by their insurance, giving you peace of mind.
Tips to Hire A Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) in Ontario
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Ask to see their ECRA/ESA licence number before you hire anyone for electrical work in your home. Having a valid number proves they can operate their electrical contracting business in Ontario. Also, look for their licence number on their truck, business card, and estimate. Verify it on ESA’s Find a Contractor tool (details as given below).
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LECs can provide you with a Certificate of Acceptance from ESA once the work is complete. Ask for it and keep it for your records and insurance purposes.
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When working with a general contractor, make sure the electrician they’re hiring is an LEC, and that they get an ESA permit.
Steps to Verify an Electrician's License
In Ontario, Canada, there are strict regulations in place to ensure that electricians meet the necessary standards. There are two main ways to check if the electrician is properly licensed to work in Ontario or not.
1. Check the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) Website
The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) is the organization responsible for electrical safety in Ontario. They provide a convenient online search tool to verify an electrician's license. Here's how to use it:
- Visit the ESA's website
- Look for the "Find a Licensed Electrical Contractor" option. At the time of this writing, the direct link to this option is here
Source: esasafe.com
3.. Enter the electrician's name or license number. 4. The search will display the electrician's current status and license information.
2. Contact the Ontario College of Trades
In Ontario, there are 23 compulsory tradesand to work in any of these, you must hold a valid :
1. Certificate of Qualification, or 2. Provisional Certificate of Qualification, or 3. Registered Training Agreement.
Some examples include plumber, electrician, steamfitter and hairstylist etc.
Skilled Trades Ontario is another resource for verifying an electrician's license.
Here's how to do it:
- Visit the Skilled Trades Ontario website https://skilledtradesontario.ca
- Search for the electrician in the "Public Register." https://services.skilledtradesontario.ca/STOportal/app/public-search
Source: skilledtradesontario.ca
- You can search by the electrician's name or registration number. To confirm that a skilled trades professional or apprentice can legally work in a compulsory trade, enter:
- all or part of their first or last name, or
- a Skilled Trades Ontario ID/Account Number.
- The search will provide you with the electrician's credentials and license information.
So, you can find out if a person has the necessary qualifications to work in a compulsory trade by searching the Skilled Trades Ontario Public Register. But remember,
Ask for the Electrical Contractor License
When hiring an electrician, don't hesitate to ask for a copy of their license or certification. Legitimate electricians will readily provide you with this information. Once you have that license or certification, use the above two sites to verify their license/certification
Remember to go through the exclusive list of questions to ask an electrician before hiring in Canada.
Signs of an Unlicensed Electrician
While checking for a license is crucial, it's also essential to be aware of red flags that may indicate an unlicensed electrician. If you notice any of the following signs, proceed with caution:
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Reluctance to Share License Information: An unlicensed electrician may be hesitant to provide you with their license details.
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Unusually Low Quotes: If an electrician's quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Unlicensed individuals may offer lower prices, but the quality of work may suffer.
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Lack of References: Established electricians usually have a list of references. If your electrician can't provide any, it's a warning sign.
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No Written Contracts: A reputable electrician will always provide a written contract outlining the scope of work, timelines, and costs. Be wary if this is missing.
You may also like to learn How to check if a Plumber is licensed in Ontario, Canada?
Hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor in Ontario, Canada
When it comes to electrical work, safety and quality are non-negotiable. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that the electrician you hire in Ontario is licensed and qualified. Your safety and peace of mind should always come first when dealing with electrical projects.
So, the next time you think of getting some electrical work done, do check if the service provider or electrician meets the Provincial licensing requirements.
Last Updated:
Apr 11
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