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This is one of the more consequential questions homeowners ask about permits, since the answer directly affects protection for one of the largest financial investments most people have. In short, unpermitted electrical work can seriously complicate insurance coverage, especially in a claim scenario. Here is what you need to know, from the licensed electricians at EZSMART, serving Toronto and the GTA.
Home insurance policies typically include provisions that unpermitted work can be grounds for reduced or denied coverage in a claim related to that work. If a fire or electrical failure is traced back to unpermitted electrical modifications, your insurer may investigate and potentially deny some or all of the claim.
Electrical fires and failures can result in very significant damage. A denied claim in a major loss situation can be financially devastating. This is why the modest cost of proper permitting is worth it, since it directly protects you if something ever goes wrong.
If unpermitted work exists in a home, licensed electricians can sometimes address it by inspecting the existing work, correcting any issues, and obtaining retroactive documentation. This is more expensive than doing the work properly initially, but far less than the exposure of leaving it undocumented.
Any electrical work that requires a permit should have one. The cost of permits is small relative to the protection they provide. Work should be performed by a licensed electrician and inspected through the Electrical Safety Authority.
Does insurance ask about unpermitted work?
Some policies ask during renewal or claims. Answering inaccurately can create additional exposure.
Can I retroactively permit past electrical work?
Sometimes yes, through a licensed electrician who inspects and documents the work.
Should I disclose unpermitted work when selling my home?
Yes, disclosure obligations for known defects apply, and unpermitted work is often flagged during home inspections anyway.
Concerned about unpermitted electrical work in your home? EZSMART provides licensed electrical inspections and retroactive permitting where possible, across Toronto and the GTA. Call 416-838-9006, and see what our customers say on our Google reviews page.
