| Burlington, Ontario court sends serious message to those who put public safety at risk. |
 |
|
The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) reported on a July 24 ruling by a Canadian court sentencing a contractor to five days in jail plus fines (including a victim surcharge) for doing electrical work illegally.
David John, who has been known to operate as Kenchiku Developments Inc. and Skookum Developments, was found guilty on two counts of working without an electrical contractor's licence and two counts of
failing to apply for an electrical inspection.
The charges were related to illegal electrical work done in homes in Milton - specifically the installation of interior and exterior pot lights.
 Unfortunately it has become too common to see advertising on flyers, signs and online for electrical work particularly pot light installations," says Scott Saint, Chief Public Safety officer, Electrical Safety Authority. "Homeowners need to know that electrical work done outside the law - even for something as commonplace as pot lights - is a safety risk if not done properly, and it's illegal."
How to Ensure You Hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor
In Ontario, only Licensed Electrical Contractors are legally allowed to conduct electrical work for hire. When hiring someone to do work, homeowners and businesses are reminded to:
- Check to ensure the contractor holds all required qualifications and licences - including an ECRA/ESA licence for electrical work.
- Confirm the contractor has secured all appropriate permits and inspections.
- Request a copy of the ESA Certificate of Inspection from the contractor once the work is complete. This document confirms the work was done in compliance with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code and is important for resale and insurance purposes, as well as peace of mind.
This article was provided to us by Electrical Safety Authority.
Visit www.esasafe.com for more information on how to verify or find a licensed Electrical contractor.
|
|
888.NEC.CODE (632.2633) ▪ www.MikeHolt.com