We all know the gist about electrical in our homes; it can start a fire by flipping a switch on a fireplace, and it can start fires if not wired properly in a renovation or a new build. We use electricity every day in almost everything we do!
When doing a renovation, we often encounter walls that need to be removed or kitchens that change in layout, and almost all walls have electrical running up the wall or from side to side to feed outlets, switches and other areas of the home. Ensuring that the electrical is handled safely and effectively is so important!
When hiring a General Contractor to renovate your home, you should verify that the electrical subcontractor working on the team is licensed from the Electrical Safety Authority. You can ask the General Contractor to provide you with the license number, and then you can confirm their licensing yourself on the ESA website.
Just recently, an unlicensed electrician in the GTA was criminally charged after completing illegal electrical work. He was sentenced to 30 days in jail and several thousands of dollars in charges. Unlicensed electrical work is not to be taken lightly.
At any time, you as a consumer can purchase electrical wire, switches, outlets etc. from a local hardware store without showing a license number, and so could your “licensed contractor”! Make sure to do your due diligence when it comes to hiring the right professional. Though the cost associated with a licensed technician may be greater, the peace of mind is worth it!
For more information, check out this website by the Electrical Safety Authority http://hazardoushomes.ca/!
