ESA Guidance for Newly Built Homes

April 13, 2020

ESA has been declared an essential service and are revising guidance documents to reflect this.

ESA is fully committed to ensuring the continual and safe operation of the electricity delivery system. ESA has a responsibility to protect Ontarians from electrical harms, including owners of newly built homes.

There are a number of ways that this can be accomplished, all of which were in place prior to Covid-19, and will continue to be used during the restricted period over the next few months. This includes the ability to utilize tools and practices such as:

Prior to Occupancy – the very best solution is for the General Contractor/Builder or homeowner to request the final electrical inspection prior to occupancy or sale closure.

Post Occupancy – in the event the final inspection does not take place prior to occupancy:

Inspector can meet the Licensed Electrical Contractor performing the work at a safe location to review pictures, videos and any other available evidence to give the Inspector comfort regarding the state of electrical safety for the new home.

If an inspector is unable to physically view newly built homes but has accepted pictures, videos or other evidence – they will make a record in the notification to that effect.

In the event a site visit is the only option remaining post occupancy, the Inspector will use all tools available within their discretion to view the condition of the electrical system – and make records in the notification – without putting themselves, or the residents at risk.

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