Electrical Inspections

FAQs

Q. As a homeowner can I do my own electrical work?
A. Yes as long as you are the registered owner and principle resident of a single family dwelling detached house without suites you may apply for a “Homeowner’s Electrical Permit” . In addition you will be required to prove knowledge of electrical installation. Note: Homeowner’s Permits do not apply if you live in a condo, strata or an apartment or if your service is above 200amp, 120/240.

Q. Who is ultimately responsible for the work performed under the homeowner’s electrical permit?
A. The applicant/permit holder must assume full responsibility for the work under the permit and must ensure that all work is done in conformance with the Vancouver Electrical By-law (85kb).

Q. I have a fused circuit panelboard. Is this safe?
A. Yes, provided that the overcurrent device (fuse) is rated to protect the circuit as it was originally designed and installed. Example - A fuse protecting a typical circuit supplying lighting and receptacles is rated at maximum 15 amps.

Q. I live in an older apartment and there does not seem to be enough receptacles and dedicated circuits. Can the owner be mandated to update the circuitry to current codes?
A. No. If the original installation was installed with permits and was accepted in accordance with the code requirements applicable at the time of installation then updating to the current code is not mandatory.

Q. I live in an older home with Knob & Tube wiring. Is this safe?
A. Yes, provided that the circuitry has not been altered, and the original installation is maintained in proper working conditions. Example - The originally installed overcurrent devices for protection of a typical circuit supplying lighting and receptacles and wired with Knob and Tube wiring would have to be rated at 15 amps maximum.

Q. My insurance company has ordered me to replace the existing Knob & Tube wiring and the existing fused circuit panel. Is this a City of Vancouver requirement?
A. No. There is no such requirement in the Canadian Electrical Code provided that the existing installation is kept in safe and proper working condition. The request of the insurance company should be discussed by the home owner with the provider.

Q. My breakers keep tripping. Is this a hazard?
A. No. The circuit breaker is functioning as it was intended to protect a circuit from over loads. This is an inconvenience to you but not a hazard. You should have a licensed electrical contractor determine what is causing the overload. Examples of some devices that often cause overloading are electric space heaters and air conditioners.

Q. Where can I apply for an electrical permit?
A. To obtain an electrical permit submit your electrical permit application (43kb) to Development Services, on the 2nd floor of the East Wing at 2675 Yukon Street, Vancouver, BC . You must obtain a permit prior to commencing electrical work.

Q. How much does an electrical permit cost?
A. Permit fees are based on the total cost of labour and materials. For more information see Electrical Fees (219kb).

Q. How long is an electrical permit valid for?
A. An Electrical permit expires 90 days from the issuance date, but it can be extended by the District Electrical Inspector as per the Vancouver Electrical By-Law.

Q. My neighbor’s yard light shines in my window. Can the City order it removed?
A. This is not an Electrical By -Law infraction. We can only determine if the lights were installed recently without permit. For all issues regarding lights shining into a neighboring window contact the Property Use Department at 604.873.7398.

Q. When do I call for my first inspection?
A. Before any wiring is covered in, or made inaccessible. This type of inspection is referred to as a “rough wire” inspection.

Q. How do I request an Inspection?
A. By calling 604.873.7059 and stating the permit number, address and type of Inspection. Requests received before 12:00 pm are booked for the following business day. Although every effort is made to complete the inspection on the date requested outstanding circumstances may prohibit this in which case the inspection will usually be fulfilled within 48 hours.

Q. Do I need to be present during the Inspection?
A. No, however it is your responsibility to provide access to the property. Inspectors will not enter occupied sites unaccompanied. Note: Failure to provide access may result in a re-inspection fee being charged.

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