How to Hire a Electrician in Ottawa
Your complete 2026 checklist for hiring a electrician in Ottawa, Eastern Ontario. What to verify, what to ask, and what to avoid.
Hiring Checklist for Ottawa
Before hiring a electrician in Ottawa, verify every item on this list. These steps protect your investment and ensure you are working with a qualified professional.
Verify their ECRA/ESA licence number on the ESA website
Confirm they will obtain the required ESA permit for the work
Check WSIB coverage and liability insurance ($2M minimum)
Ask about their experience with your specific type of electrical work
Get a written quote that includes permit fees and inspection
Verify they will arrange the mandatory ESA inspection after completion
Red Flags to Watch For
If a electrician in Ottawa displays any of these warning signs, consider looking elsewhere. Protecting yourself starts with recognizing these patterns.
Not registered with ESA or cannot provide an ECRA licence number
Says permits are not needed (almost all electrical work requires one)
Offers to do the work 'under the table' for a discount
Cannot explain what the ESA inspection process involves
No insurance documentation available
Unwilling to provide references or show past project photos
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
What is your ECRA/ESA licence number?
Good answer: My licence number is [number]. You can verify it at esasafe.com.
Will you obtain the ESA permit?
Good answer: Yes, I handle the permit application and schedule the ESA inspection.
Is your work insured?
Good answer: Yes, I carry $2M+ liability and am WSIB registered. Happy to provide certificates.
How do you handle the ESA inspection?
Good answer: I schedule it after completion, and I stay until everything passes inspection.
Licensing Requirements in Ottawa
All electrical work in Ontario must be performed by an ESA-licensed electrical contractor. The ESA maintains a public registry you can search to verify any contractor's licence status. Verify credentials at Electrical Safety Authority (ESA).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a good electrician in Ottawa?
Start by comparing electricians on FinderHub, which aggregates ratings from Google, HomeStars, BBB, and TrustedPros. Look for providers with Trust Index scores above 70 and verified government licences.
What licences should a electrician in Ottawa have?
All electrical work in Ontario must be performed by an ESA-licensed electrical contractor. The ESA maintains a public registry you can search to verify any contractor's licence status.
How many electricians are in Ottawa?
FinderHub tracks 0 verified electricians in Ottawa.
Should I get multiple quotes from Ottawa electricians?
Yes. Always get 2–3 written quotes for any job over $500. Compare not just price, but credentials, insurance coverage, and reviews across multiple platforms.
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