Most structural, electrical, and plumbing work requires a permit — unpermitted work can complicate a future sale.
Check whether your specific project needs a permit before starting
The City of Ottawa's building permit pages list what's covered — when in doubt, a quick call or online check is faster than assuming either way.
Apply before work begins, not after
Retroactive permits are possible but involve inspection of completed work, which is more complicated (and sometimes requires opening up finished walls) than inspecting as you go.
Book required inspections at each stage
Most permits require inspections at specific milestones (framing, rough-in, final) — schedule these as you go rather than all at once at the end.
Confirm electrical work is inspected by the Electrical Safety Authority
Electrical permits and inspections in Ontario go through the ESA, separate from the City's building permit process.
Removing or altering a load-bearing wall, adding a room, or finishing a basement generally requires a permit.
New circuits, panel upgrades, or moving wiring require an ESA-inspected electrical permit.
Relocating a sink, toilet, or adding a bathroom typically requires a permit.
Work done without a permit often has to be disclosed when selling, and may need to be corrected or retroactively permitted — this can complicate or delay a sale.
Book a free consultation with Narges, or ask HAI a quick question to get pointed in the right direction.
