Renovating your home?
Start here.
If you're planning a home renovation that involves electrical work, you’ll need to coordinate with Hydro Ottawa and other agencies to make sure everything goes smoothly and safely.
Here’s how to get started:
Notify us early
Before any work begins, let us know about your renovation. This ensures your account is updated and your service needs are met on time.
Submit the Account Information Form – New Construction (Appendix D) with:
- A valid government-issued ID (such as a driver’s licence or passport)
- Your 20-digit Hydro Ottawa account number, if available
This form allows us to process your request and schedule any necessary service adjustments.
Contact the Electrical Safety Authority
All electrical work in Ontario must be reported to the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). Contact them at 1 (877) 372-7233 to:
- Apply for permits
- Arrange inspections
- Confirm your project meets their current safety codes
Know your equipment
Before starting your renovation, make sure you know where the following items are located in your home:
- Electrical panel (circuit breakers or fuses)
- Hydro meter
- Electric water heater (if applicable)
This information will help contractors and inspectors work efficiently and safely.
Call before you dig
If your project involves digging, you must contact Ontario One Call. They’ll mark the location of underground utilities at no charge. This will help you avoid costly and dangerous accidents when digging.
Service disconnection
If your home will be vacant for more than six months, we can temporarily disconnect your electricity. Be aware that reconnection may require an ESA inspection to meet their latest safety standards. Contact the ESA at 1 (877) 372-7233 for more information.
Important safety tips
Watch for overhead wires
Overhead power lines can be dangerous. Keep ladders, scaffolding, tools and antennas well away from wires. A moment’s contact can cause an outage or a serious injury.
Do electrical work the right way
To protect yourself and your home:
- Get a permit and inspection from the ESA before starting any electrical work.
- Hire a licensed electrical contractor registered with the City of Ottawa.
- Make sure your contractor employs a licensed Master Electrician.
- Use only equipment and materials approved by the ESA or the Canadian Standards Association.
Need more information?
For more information, see our Conditions of Service or contact our Customer Service team.