How Much Does It Cost to Fix or Replace a GFCI Outlet in Ontario?

How Much Does It Cost to Fix or Replace a GFCI Outlet in Ontario?

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are required in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor locations throughout Ontario homes and commercial properties. When a GFCI outlet stops working — whether it won’t reset, trips immediately, or has failed completely — it needs to be repaired or replaced by a licensed electrical contractor. Here is what that service costs in Ontario.

How Much Does GFCI Outlet Repair or Replacement Cost in Ontario?

Fixing or replacing an outdoor or indoor GFCI outlet by a licensed electrical contractor in Ontario costs $150. This flat rate covers the service call, diagnosis, and replacement of the GFCI receptacle with a new code-compliant unit.

Why GFCI Outlets Fail

GFCI outlets are sensitive protective devices that can fail or trip for several reasons:

• Tripped and will not reset — A ground fault condition is still present on the circuit, or the GFCI has failed internally. The reset button will not stay engaged when pushed.
• Moisture damage — Outdoor GFCI outlets are particularly vulnerable to water intrusion. Moisture inside the receptacle box corrodes the contacts and damages the internal electronics.
• Age and wear — GFCI outlets have a finite lifespan. Older units — especially those installed 10 or more years ago — may fail and need replacement even without an obvious fault event.
• Wiring issue on the circuit — A fault condition elsewhere on the same circuit can prevent a GFCI from resetting. The licensed electrician will diagnose the upstream cause as part of the service.

Where Are GFCI Outlets Required in Ontario?

Under the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC), GFCI protection is required in locations where electricity and water may come into contact. These include:

• All outdoor receptacles
• Bathrooms and powder rooms
• Garages and car ports
• Kitchen countertop receptacles within 1.5 metres of a sink
• Laundry rooms and utility areas near water sources
• Unfinished basements
• Pool, hot tub, and spa areas

Does Replacing a GFCI Outlet Require a Permit in Ontario?

Replacing a GFCI outlet on an existing circuit as a like-for-like repair typically does not require an ESA permit. However, if the underlying wiring or circuit has a fault that requires more than the outlet replacement, the additional work may require a permit. Your licensed electrician will advise you after diagnosing the issue.

All electrical work in Ontario must be performed by a licensed electrical contractor or master electrician — including outlet replacement. This is a legal requirement under the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, regardless of the simplicity of the task.

Get a GFCI Outlet Repaired or Replaced

EZSMART repairs and replaces GFCI outlets for residential and commercial clients across Ontario. We diagnose the issue, replace the receptacle, and confirm the circuit is functioning correctly before leaving the site.

Contact us today to schedule a visit for your GFCI outlet repair or replacement.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp