What happens during an ESA inspection of a new panel installation?

During an ESA inspection of a new panel installation, a certified inspector visits your home to verify that all work complies with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, checking everything from wire sizing and connections to proper grounding, labelling, and breaker ratings. The inspection typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for a panel upgrade, and you or your electrician should be present in case the inspector has questions.

The inspection process begins after your electrician notifies the ESA that the work is complete and ready for review. In the GTA, inspectors typically schedule visits within three to seven business days of notification, though during peak renovation season in summer, wait times can extend to two weeks. You can use your electrical system normally while waiting for the inspection — the panel is fully functional once your electrician completes the installation.

When the inspector arrives, they will examine several specific elements. They start with the service entrance, checking that the meter base, service entrance cable, and weatherhead are properly installed and secured. At the panel itself, they verify that the panel is the correct size for the service, that all breakers are properly rated for their circuits, and that wire gauges match breaker ratings — 14 gauge wire on 15 amp breakers, 12 gauge on 20 amp, and so on. They check that all connections are properly torqued, that no wires show damage or improper stripping, and that the panel has adequate working clearance in front of it as required by code. Grounding and bonding receive close attention — the inspector verifies the ground wire connection to the grounding electrode (water pipe, ground rod, or Ufer ground), the bonding of the neutral bus to the panel enclosure at the main panel only, and proper separation of neutral and ground buses at any sub-panels.

The inspector also checks that all circuits are clearly and accurately labelled. This is a code requirement that many electricians rush through, and it is one of the most common reasons for inspection corrections. Each breaker must be labelled to identify which area or device it serves. The inspector may test a few circuits to verify accuracy.

If everything passes, the ESA issues a Certificate of Inspection, which you should keep permanently with your home records. This certificate proves the work was done legally and to code, which matters for insurance coverage and at resale. If the inspector finds deficiencies, they will issue a deficiency notice listing what needs correction. Your electrician fixes the issues and schedules a re-inspection, usually at no additional ESA fee for the first re-inspection. Common deficiencies include missing circuit labels, improper bonding, insufficient working clearance, or missing AFCI protection on bedroom circuits. If you need a panel installation or upgrade, Toronto Electrical Repair can match you with a licensed electrician who handles the full process including ESA permits and inspection coordination.