EZSMART Corporation, ESA/ECRA #7012690 , North York , Ontario
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No, panel upgrades should not be done as a DIY project. In Ontario, this kind of electrical work legally requires a licensed electrical contractor, and the safety stakes involved make it one of the least appropriate DIY projects in the home. Here is why, from the licensed electricians at EZSMART, serving Toronto and the GTA.
While the panel upgrade itself must be professional, you can prepare by clearing access to the panel area, discussing your goals with your electrician such as EV charger readiness or additional capacity for future projects, and understanding the timeline and permit process ahead of time. A licensed electrician handles the technical work and permitting through the Electrical Safety Authority.
Is it actually illegal to upgrade my own panel?
Yes, panel work in Ontario requires a licensed electrical contractor, and unpermitted work carries legal, safety, and insurance risks.
Can I at least remove the old panel myself to save money?
This is not recommended given the live components involved and the coordination required with your utility provider for service disconnection.
What can I safely do myself related to my panel?
Simple tasks like resetting a tripped breaker are generally fine. Anything involving opening the panel to work on wiring or breakers should be left to a licensed electrician.
Planning a panel upgrade? EZSMART provides licensed panel upgrades across Toronto and the GTA, handling every step including permits. Call 416-838-9006, and see what our customers say on our Google reviews page.
