How Much Does a Electrician Cost in Ontario?
Electrical work in Ontario must be performed by ESA-licensed contractors. Costs depend on the complexity of the job, permit requirements, and whether your home has older wiring that needs upgrading to current code.
Quick Cost Summary
| Service | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Panel Upgrade (100A to 200A) | $2,000 | $4,500 |
| Outlet Installation | $150 | $300 |
| Room Rewiring | $1,500 | $3,500 |
| EV Charger Installation | $1,500 | $3,000 |
| Ceiling Fan Installation | $150 | $350 |
| Knob-and-Tube Replacement | $8,000 | $15,000 |
| Smoke/CO Detector Wiring | $100 | $250 |
| Hot Tub/Spa Hookup | $1,000 | $3,000 |
What Affects the Cost?
Permit Requirements
Most electrical work in Ontario requires an ESA permit. Budget $100–$300 for permits on top of labour and materials.
Panel Capacity
If your panel is at capacity, adding circuits for EV chargers or hot tubs may require a full panel upgrade first.
Home Age
Older homes with aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring cost significantly more to work on due to code upgrade requirements.
Accessibility
Finished basements, cathedral ceilings, and hard-to-reach areas increase labour time and cost.
Licensing in Ontario
Ontario electricians must hold a valid ESA/ECRA licence. The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) maintains a public registry. Never hire an unlicensed electrician — your insurance may not cover unpermitted work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do electricians need to be licensed in Ontario?
Yes. All electrical contractors must be licensed by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA/ECRA). Verify any electrician before hiring at esasafe.com.
How much does a panel upgrade cost?
Upgrading from 100A to 200A typically costs $2,000–$4,500 in Ontario, including the permit and ESA inspection.
Do I need a permit for electrical work?
Most electrical work requires an ESA permit. Minor tasks like replacing a light switch may be exempt, but anything involving new circuits does.
How much does EV charger installation cost?
Level 2 EV charger installation runs $800–$2,500 depending on distance from panel, panel capacity, and charger model.
Disclaimer: All prices shown are estimates based on Ontario market research for 2026. Actual costs vary based on job complexity, location, materials, and contractor. Always get 2–3 written quotes from verified professionals before committing. FinderHub is not responsible for pricing accuracy — use these figures as a starting point for budgeting.
Electrician Costs by City
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