The ESA is implementing changes to the Electrical Inspection Order process to modernize and streamline this process for all users.
As of November 1, 2025, ESA is implementing changes to the Electrical Inspection Order process to modernize and streamline this process for all users. The process is utilized when there is evidence of imminent life and/or property hazards in the form of electrical fire or shock.
 Action Requested:
Please share this update throughout your Fire Service so that the process of an Electrical Inspection Order can be smoother and easier, by using the form found here: https://esasafe.com/fire-services/
What is the Electrical Inspection Order Process?
Currently, Electrical Inspection Orders are issued with discretion under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997. When non-compliant, non-hazardous electrical code issues are identified and need to be addressed, fire services use the “Fire Department Referral” process by emailing esa.cambridge@electricalsafety.on.ca to obtain an inspection order.
An Order is required if:
- A re-inspection confirms that non-compliance persists;
- The Fire Marshal observes that ESA regulations have been violated to the extent that a serious or imminent electrical hazard exists (in which case, an Order should be served at the first inspection).
For residential sites, ESA does not have right of access, and therefore the Fire Service submitting this Order must arrange access with the ESA Inspector and accompany the Inspector, so that ESA can perform the inspection.
 What is Changing?
Improvements benefiting both Fire Services and ESA include an up-to-date form with simplified instructions, more clarity in the communication of inspection outcomes. and reduced burden in obtaining site access.
The most significant change relates to site access on residential sites. Upon receipt of the Electrical Inspection Order for residential sites, our ESA Customer Service Centre will issue an email to the respective Fire Service with the appropriate ESA Inspector’s contact information for coordination of the inspection. This streamlining will help both Fire Services and ESA gain access to complete inspections faster.
 What happens next
This process modernization will be implemented on November 1, 2025. ESA will be communicating with Fire Services across Ontario and other fire stakeholder across the province to advise them of the update in process. We kindly ask that you please share this update with your Fire Services and throughout your organization to help amplify this change.
Additional reference information and forms are available on our website, https://esasafe.com/fire-services/.
As partners in safety, we appreciate your cooperation and support as we work to make the order process faster, easier and more effective for all. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the ESA Customer Service Centre with any questions at esa.cambridge@electricalsafety.on.ca or by calling 1 (877)-372-7233.