What electrical work triggers a TSANB inspection?
What electrical work triggers a TSANB inspection?
Most electrical work in New Brunswick requires a TSANB permit and inspection. The Technical Safety Authority of New Brunswick (TSANB) requires permits for virtually any electrical work beyond simple replacements, and every permitted job gets inspected before you receive your Certificate of Compliance.
Work That Requires TSANB Permits and Inspection:
Any new electrical circuits or modifications to existing circuits trigger permit requirements. This includes installing new outlets, switches, or light fixtures where none existed before, adding circuits for appliances like dryers or dishwashers, and running power to garages, sheds, or outdoor areas. Panel upgrades or replacements always require permits, whether you're upgrading from 100A to 200A service or simply replacing an old Federal Pacific panel with a modern one.
EV charger installations require permits since they typically involve installing a new 240V circuit. Generator installations, both portable transfer switches and whole-home standby generators, need permits and inspection. Any rewiring work, including knob and tube removal or aluminum wiring repairs, requires permits. Hot tub and pool electrical work always needs permits due to the specialized bonding and GFCI requirements.
Work That Doesn't Require Permits:
The list of work that doesn't require TSANB permits is much shorter. Homeowners can replace outlets, switches, and light fixtures on a like-for-like basis without permits - but the power must be shut off and the replacement must be the same type (you can't upgrade a regular outlet to GFCI without a permit). Replacing smoke detector batteries and bulbs doesn't require permits, nor does resetting tripped breakers.
The TSANB Inspection Process:
Only licensed electrical contractors can pull permits in New Brunswick - homeowners cannot get permits directly. The electrician pulls the permit before starting work, completes the installation according to the Canadian Electrical Code as adopted by New Brunswick, then schedules the TSANB inspection. The inspector verifies the work meets code requirements and issues a Certificate of Compliance if everything passes.
Why This Matters:
TSANB inspections protect your safety and ensure insurance coverage. Unpermitted electrical work can void your home insurance and create liability issues if there's ever a fire. The inspection also ensures the work meets current electrical code, which is especially important for older homes that may not have modern safety features like GFCI protection or proper grounding.
If you're unsure whether your project needs a permit, contact TSANB directly at 1-800-999-0813 or check their website at tsanb.ca. When in doubt, it's better to get the permit - the cost is minimal compared to the safety and legal protection it provides.
Need help finding a licensed electrician who can handle permits and inspections properly? New Brunswick Electrical can match you with qualified contractors in your area for free.
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