Frequently Asked Questions

General Electrical Questions

1. Do I need a permit for electrical work in Ottawa?

Yes, most electrical work in Ottawa requires a permit issued by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). This includes installing new circuits, upgrading your electrical panel, or rewiring your home. Minor repairs, such as replacing a light fixture, may not require a permit, but it’s always best to consult a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with local codes.

2. Who is responsible for arranging electrical permits?

At Benor Electric Inc., we handle the permit process for you. Our team will coordinate with the ESA to ensure all work meets Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards.

3. How often should I have my electrical system inspected?

Every 10 years for residential properties to identify potential hazards.

• After significant renovations or additions to your property.
• Before purchasing or selling a home in Ottawa to ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards.

4. Can I do my own electrical work in Ottawa?

Ontario laws allow homeowners to perform some electrical work on their own homes, provided they obtain the necessary permits and inspections from the ESA. However, electrical work can be complex and hazardous. Hiring a licensed electrician, like those at Benor Electric Inc., ensures the work is done safely and up to code.

5. What are the consequences of not obtaining a permit for electrical work?

Failing to obtain the required permits can result in:

• Fines or penalties imposed by the ESA or city authorities.
• Complications when selling your property, as unpermitted work may not pass inspection.
• Increased safety risks due to non-compliance with safety codes.

Specialty Services

6. Do I need a permit to install an EV charger at home?

Yes, installing an EV charger typically requires a permit to ensure the electrical system can safely handle the additional load. Benor Electric Inc. manages the entire permitting process for you, ensuring compliance with ESA standards.

7. What types of EV chargers do you install?

We install Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers for residential and commercial use. Our team will assess your property’s electrical system and recommend the best solution based on your EV model and usage needs.

8. Can you install EV chargers in multi-unit buildings?

Yes, we offer scalable EV charging solutions for multi-unit residential buildings, ensuring compliance with building regulations and delivering reliable charging for tenants or employees.

9. What’s included in a smart home installation?

Our smart home installations include:

• Integration of devices like smart thermostats, doorbells, locks, and automated blinds.
• Smart lighting and security system setup.
• Configuration of smart hubs to allow centralized control via apps or voice assistants.

10. Are smart home systems compatible with existing electrical systems?

Yes, we ensure compatibility by assessing and upgrading your existing system if needed. Our installations are tailored to seamlessly integrate with your home’s infrastructure.

Electrical System Upgrades and Maintenance

11. How much does it cost to upgrade my electrical panel in Ottawa?

The cost of upgrading your panel starts at around $1,500 for a basic 100-amp upgrade and increases based on factors like the panel size, additional circuits, and the condition of your wiring. Contact us for a detailed estimate tailored to your needs.

12. What are the signs my home’s electrical system needs an upgrade?

Frequently tripped breakers or blown fuses.

• Flickering lights or non-functional outlets.
• Outdated wiring types like knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring.
• Insufficient power for modern appliances or home additions.

Outdoor & Maintenance Questions

13. What are the rules for outdoor electrical installations in Ottawa?

Outdoor installations must meet specific requirements:

• Outlets must be weatherproof and include GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection.
• Underground wiring must be buried at least 18 inches deep.
• Outdoor fixtures should be rated for wet or damp locations.

14. How often should I schedule routine electrical maintenance?

We recommend annual maintenance for commercial properties and every 2-3 years for residential systems. Routine maintenance ensures safety, efficiency, and longevity.

15. What is a power quality assessment?

A power quality assessment evaluates the efficiency and reliability of your electrical system, identifying issues like voltage drops, electrical noise, and inefficiencies. This service can help reduce energy costs and improve system performance.

Emergency & Service Area

16. Does Benor Electric Inc. offer emergency services?

Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency services for urgent electrical issues such as power outages, exposed wires, or equipment failures. Our fast response team ensures your safety and restores power as quickly as possible.

17. Does Benor Electric Inc. serve areas outside Ottawa?

Yes, we serve Ottawa and surrounding areas, including Nepean, Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, and more. Contact us to confirm service availability in your location.