How long does it take to get a TSANB electrical inspection in New Brunswick?

Question

New Brunswick Electrical · Accepted Answer

TSANB Electrical Inspection Timelines in New Brunswick

The Technical Safety Authority of New Brunswick (TSANB) is responsible for all electrical inspections in the province. Whether you're building a new home, renovating a kitchen, or installing an EV charger, here's what to expect for inspection scheduling and timelines.

Current Typical Wait Times

Inspection scheduling varies by region and season:

| Region | Typical Wait | Peak Season Wait |
|--------|-------------|------------------|
| Moncton / Dieppe / Riverview | 3–5 business days | 5–8 business days |
| Saint John / Quispamsis / Rothesay | 3–5 business days | 5–8 business days |
| Fredericton / Oromocto | 3–5 business days | 5–8 business days |
| Miramichi / Bathurst / Campbellton | 5–7 business days | 7–10 business days |
| Rural NB / smaller communities | 5–10 business days | 7–14 business days |

Peak season is May through October when new construction and renovation activity is highest. Winter inspections are typically faster to schedule.

Types of Inspections

Rough-in inspection: Done after wiring is installed but before walls are closed (drywall, insulation covering wires). The inspector verifies:
- Correct wire gauge for each circuit
- Proper box placement and fill calculations
- Grounding and bonding
- Cable protection (nail plates, stapling, support)
- GFCI and AFCI protection where required

Final inspection: Done after all devices, fixtures, and cover plates are installed. The inspector verifies:
- All circuits functioning correctly
- GFCI and AFCI devices working (tested on-site)
- Proper labelling of the panel directory
- Cover plates on all boxes
- Outdoor fixtures and receptacles properly weatherproofed

Service entrance inspection: For panel upgrades, new service installations, or meter relocations. Must pass before NB Power will connect or reconnect service.

The Permit and Inspection Process

1. Licensed electrician applies for permit — this can be done online through TSANB's portal or by phone. Permits are typically issued same-day or next business day.

2. Work proceeds — your electrician completes the installation according to the CEC and the scope described on the permit.

3. Request inspection — your electrician calls or submits an online request for inspection. You'll receive a scheduled date.

4. Inspection day — the TSANB inspector visits the site. Inspections are scheduled in time blocks (morning or afternoon), and the inspector may arrive anytime within that window. Someone must be present to provide access.

5. Pass or deficiency notice:
   - Pass — the inspector signs off and the permit is closed. For service work, they notify NB Power.
   - Deficiency — the inspector provides a written list of items that need correction. Your electrician makes the fixes and requests a re-inspection. Re-inspections typically take 2–5 business days to schedule.

Permit Costs

TSANB electrical permit fees are based on the scope of work:

| Work Type | Approximate Fee |
|-----------|----------------|
| Minor work (single circuit, outlet, fixture) | $50–$75 |
| Panel upgrade | $75–$100 |
| Residential renovation (multiple circuits) | $75–$150 |
| New home (full electrical) | $200–$400 |
| Commercial projects | $200–$1,000+ |

These fees are typically included in your electrician's quote or invoiced as a line item.

Tips for Faster Inspections

1. Book early — your electrician should request the inspection as soon as rough-in is complete, not when the drywaller is scheduled for the next day. Build 5+ business days of buffer.

2. Have the site ready — the inspector needs clear access to the panel, all junction boxes, and the work area. Remove ladders, materials, and debris that block access. If it's a rough-in, leave the ceiling and walls open.

3. Panel directory completed — for final inspections, the panel must have a legible, accurate circuit directory. Inspectors commonly flag missing or incorrect labelling.

4. Permit posted — the electrical permit should be posted or readily available at the job site.

5. Ask your electrician to be present — while not always required, having the electrician available during inspection speeds up any questions the inspector has and allows immediate correction of minor deficiencies on the spot.

What Happens Without an Inspection?

Skipping the TSANB inspection means:
- The permit remains open indefinitely on TSANB's records
- Home insurance may not cover electrical fire damage if the work wasn't inspected
- Future buyers will discover the open permit during due diligence
- NB Power may refuse to connect service for uninspected service entrance work
- If unpermitted electrical work is discovered later, TSANB can require opening walls for inspection at the homeowner's expense

Always close your permits. It protects you now and when you sell.

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