Electrical Safety Authority
The Electrical Safety Authority is Ontario’s electrical safety regulator. Our job is to help enhance electrical safety for the people of Ontario, with the goal of creating an Ontario where people can live, work and play safe from electrical harm.
What is a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC)?
In Ontario, any business that offers or performs electrical work must be licensed by the Electrical Safety Authority. The Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) employs qualified electricians and a designated master electrician, and must abide by the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, and other applicable laws.
Why hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor?
Licensed Electrical Contractors, with some exemptions such as HVAC installers, are the only businesses in Ontario legally authorized to do electrical work in your home. Always ask for an ECRA/ESA licence number to make sure you’re hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor. And, if you’re using a general contractor or other trade professional who subcontracts electrical work, the work always needs to be completed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor. All electrical installations, repairs, replacements or alterations in Ontario need to be done in compliance with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, and all necessary Notifications (“permits”) must be taken out along with an ESA Certificate of Inspection following work completion. A Licensed Electrical Contractor is aware of the process and will facilitate for you.
“Why I love the people at Electrical Safety Authority is because it’s their job is to help enhance electrical safety for the people of Ontario. Their ultimate goal is to ensure Ontarians can live, work and play safe from electrical harm and that’s Making It Right!”
– Mike Holmes Jr
PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTOR / TV HOST
Electrical Safety Authority Product Photos
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Electrical Safety Authority Official Website
For more information on Electrical Safety Authority please visit: www.ESAsafe.com and check us on these social media channels
How do you spot an unlicensed LEC?
Working with a Licensed Electrical Contractor helps protect you and your family from electrical hazards or costly mistakes. Here are some ways to spot an unlicensed electrician:
- They ask you to take out the notification with the Electrical Safety Authority.
- They don’t have an ECRA/ESA licence number on their work vehicle or estimate.
- You can’t find the company’s name in the Find a Licensed Electrical Contractor Near You tool on the ESA website.
- They do more than just electrical work including drywall, flooring, plumbing, snow removal, eavestrough cleaning, and other home maintenance and improvement work.
- They offer a discount if you pay cash, accept only cash and/or won’t provide a receipt.