Define the electrical boundary before interior demolition

Ontario’s Electrical Safety Authority explains that a Licensed Electrical Contractor is the business to hire for electrical work in a home. It also says a general contractor must use an appropriately licensed electrical subcontractor rather than assume that general construction authority covers the work. Confirm the business and its licence through ESA.

The demolition quote should identify whether electrical coordination is included, excluded or being arranged directly by the owner. Naming an electrician in conversation is not enough if no one has agreed who engages them or what their scope covers.

List occupied rooms, shared services and equipment that need to remain available. Mark proposed removal areas on a plan and give the electrical contractor that same version. Ask that professional to determine the isolation, alteration and verification required; do not use a light switch or an inactive appliance as a safety test.

The responsible parties should agree how readiness for demolition will be communicated. Keep any relevant utility and ESA records with the project file. A building permit and an electrical notification are different records, and one should not be described as the other.

After the agreed electrical work, obtain the records appropriate to that work and identify anything outstanding. The next trade should know which services are retained, changed or awaiting further work. Avoid describing an incomplete electrical stage as fully ready simply because finishes have been removed.

Tell YAK about electrical arrangements and retained supplies during the enquiry. Electrical work needs a Licensed Electrical Contractor. Confirm who will arrange that work before demolition begins.