Last updated: September 2026
Is Hiring a Licensed Electrician Worth It?
Electrical problems pose serious dangers in households and businesses. Each year, reports document about 1,000 accidents involving electric shock or burns. Faulty wiring, electrical shorts, and general negligence account for nearly one-third of these accidents. This number only goes to show how hazardous electricity work can be, especially when done by a non-licensed electrician. So in order to prevent disastrous outcomes and maintain your safety, if you suspect an electrical issue in your property, you must have a skilled, licensed electrician on site.
What Is a Licensed Electrician?
A licensed electrician is one that has received formal training and official certification from a recognized institution, making them qualified to provide electrical services under the Electrical Safety Authority of Ontario (ESA).
Do I Need a Licensed Electrician?
According to the Ontario Electricity Act , anyone who performs electrical work in your home or business must be a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC). The LEC will, in turn, provide a licensed electrician to complete the work.
By law, general handymen and other home service providers cannot perform electrical work in residences unless they hold the required electrical licence.
The reason why it’s illegal to hire a non-licensed electrician is that the risks are otherwise too high. Seeking a licensed contractor and/or electrician is important due to the following reasons:
- When hiring a licensed electrician via an electrical contractor, you ensure that they complete all electrical work under the Electrical Safety Code and the laws relating to health, employment standards, business tax, and consumer protection.
- Licensed Electricity Contractor can offer a certificate of inspection that details all electrical work done in your home or business. Your contractor will provide a copy of this certificate that testifies their work complies with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code . This way, you have formal documentation that keeps the record of your property’s electricity.
- All licensed electricians have electrical liability insurance that covers any electrical damage or loss affecting your property, or an occupant in the house.
- Hiring a registered electrician means you don’t have to risk your safety or theirs in the process.
How Much Is an Electrician Service Call?
A licensed electrician can cost more up front, but you pay for code-compliant work that passes inspection. Rates vary with the size and type of job — see our electrical renovation cost guide for current Toronto ranges. While it may seem like more to pay, the advantages that come with hiring a licensed electrician far outweigh a saved penny.
Safety First
You may consider a DIY solution to an electrical problem or hire an unlicensed electrician because it seems like the easier, cheaper route. By doing so, you are putting your safety and the safety of those around at jeopardy. Instead, hire a qualified electrician that has experience in the field and knows what they’re doing as it is the safer, smarter and more responsible thing to do. Read more on why hiring a licensed electrician matters.
