I found unpermitted electrical work after buying.

Get an ESA inspection to establish scope, then legal advice — undisclosed defects may support a claim against the seller, and the work may need to be brought to code regardless.

Can unpermitted work affect an insurance claim?

Yes. Insurers may rely on it when assessing a fire claim. Obtaining ESA certification for work is worth doing before a loss, not after.

Electrical Safety Authority Ontario — Permits, Inspections & Contractors

Electrical Safety Authority (ESA)

The ESA administers Ontario's Electrical Safety Code, issues notifications and inspections for electrical work, and licenses electrical contractors. Unpermitted electrical work is a recurring problem on home sales and insurance claims — an insurer can decline a fire claim, and a buyer can raise it on closing.

What it does

Requires notification and inspection of electrical work
Licenses electrical contractors and master electricians
Issues defect notices and orders
Investigates electrical incidents and fires

Matters it hears

Unpermitted or defective electrical work
Contractor licensing and enforcement
Electrical incident and fire investigations
Defect notices affecting occupancy or sale

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT).

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

I found unpermitted electrical work after buying.: Get an ESA inspection to establish scope, then legal advice — undisclosed defects may support a claim against the seller, and the work may need to be brought to code regardless.
Can unpermitted work affect an insurance claim?: Yes. Insurers may rely on it when assessing a fire claim. Obtaining ESA certification for work is worth doing before a loss, not after.

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General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.