Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinWhen I was younger, calling an electrician only happened when a light flickered, a wire sparked, or if something completely stopped working. I’ve also been guilty of troubleshooting, flipping the breaker on and off, just to hit ‘reset’.
Until someone called out that I’ve been doing my electrical system more harm than good. And since I wanted to make sure everything is still working properly, I decided to book that electrical system inspection at home.
So if you need to have that peace of mind, or maybe you’re living in an old house, give your electrical system the inspection it deserves. We did the hunting for you, so just read the list below and find the best one that suits your needs!
How much does an electrical safety inspection cost in Vancouver?
In Vancouver, the general cost for an electrical safety inspection starts at $300. Meanwhile, specific rates may apply for personalized inspection procedures.
How we chose:
- Inspection process: It’s important for us that the companies perform a thorough inspection, ensuring they don’t miss anything.
- Reliability: We considered electrical safety inspection companies that can immediately schedule a visit, especially during urgent times. Plus points for those with same-day availability.
- Detailed report: We included companies that provide a detailed report. We also prefer those with explanations, which is beneficial for those who are not too savvy about technical terms.
- Advanced tools: We also looked for inspection companies that utilize advanced tools, allowing them to have a much detailed inspection, especially for older homes.
1. OneStop Electrical Services
Consumer Rating: A
| Google reviews score | 5/5 |
| Total reviews | 5/5 |
| Score consistency | 5/5 |
Our Rating: B+
| Inspection process | 4.5/5 |
| Detailed inspection | 4.5/5 |
| Follows a standardized checklist | 4.5/5 |
| Reliability | 4.8/5 |
| History of accuracy | 4.8/5 |
| Same-day availability | 4.8/5 |
| Detailed report | 4.8/5 |
| Advanced tools | 4.3/5 |
When we needed someone to check our home’s electrical system at the last minute, we looked for a company that’s open 24 hours, and that’s when we found OneStop Electrical Services.
Even if we called them on short notice, they were still able to squeeze us into their schedule. We were even surprised to see them two hours after making that call, which felt like a win since other companies had longer queues.
The inspector was very professional and patient. We never felt like he was rushing the inspection, allowing him to pin down the electrical wirings that we need to fix before we proceed with our renovations.
You also don’t need to take down notes. What’s great about them is that they’re proactive in documenting everything for you, complete with notes and descriptions.
After the inspection, they will provide you with a comprehensive report. Let them know if you need a copy for your renovation contractors too, so all teams are aligned before you even begin with your home project.
And for those of you who require more power from the grid, this electrical safety inspection company also handles panel upgrades. They have the 200A and the 400A panel, so if you’re currently searching for one, then here’s your savior!
Available on short notice
“I needed an electrician at my house on short notice. I sent a message to OneStop Electrical and Shawn got back to me within hours and was able to come to my house the next day in the morning. He checked everything out, answered all of my questions, and gave us a couple of solutions to try. He communicated quickly this morning about when to expect his arrival, and was professional throughout the visit. I would definitely recommend Shawn and OneStop Electrical.”
Jas G, Google Review
Responsive to messages
“I highly recommend Shawn at OneStop Electrical Services. He is very professional, reliable and very knowledgeable. I recently called him to fix a pot light in our condo. Despite our changing the light bulb, the fixture still wouldn’t come on. It turned out that our fixture has been discontinued. Despite this, over text messaging, Shawn determined that it might be the transformer so he looked for the part. He spent some time doing this and brought a part with him. In the end, it was something else but I am still totally impressed with him. I absolutely would not hesitate to call him next time we have an electrical problem.”
Janice T, Google Review
2. Expert Electric
Consumer Rating: B+
| Google reviews score | 4.5/5 |
| Total reviews | 5/5 |
| Score consistency | 5/5 |
Our Rating: B+
| Inspection process | 4.7/5 |
| Detailed inspection | 4.7/5 |
| Follows a standardized checklist | 4.7/5 |
| Reliability | 4/5 |
| History of accuracy | 4/5 |
| Same-day availability | 4/5 |
| Detailed report | 4.7/5 |
| Advanced tools | 4.3/5 |
We didn’t even know much about wires and electrical systems until our friend introduced us to Expert Electric. Because of how they explained things, we now have basic knowledge about our electrical system at home
They sent two inspectors, who both took their time in looking at every socket, lights, and wirings at home. They also inspected those power outlets that haven’t been in use for quite some time.
Since we weren’t in a rush, that detailed (and pretty long) inspection was highly appreciated. We prefer that to those quick inspections we had in the past, which brought us headaches towards the end anyway!
So take this as a fair warning if your schedule is a bit tight. Their inspection may take a good chunk of the day, so make sure to clear your day if you really want to have a thorough electrical safety inspection.
As expected, they were able to spot the issues we had with our electrical system. They even pointed out that while our old fuse box was working, it would be a lot riskier to use it.
See, they were not pushy about the upgrades, but will tell you if it would do you harm than good in the long term!
Sorted out all the required permits
“We got our home Level2 ev charging set up. Sean initially visited us and provided a decent quote. They got all the permits sorted out for us. The crew came and installed everything. They even cleaned up the wiring in the panel so it would be easier to pass inspection. Great honest bunch and thanks again to Scott, Sean and the crew. Check them out if you need to set up a EV charging station.”
Richie C, Google Review
Offers free quotation
“Got a free quote from them, which is great because some companies charge to even quote you. James came by the first time for the quote, then we decided to go with the service to fix our camera system. Friendly, professional, and very efficient work.
Scott who helped us over the phone was great as well.Definitely would recommend their services!“
Nate D, Google Review
3. Wicks Electric
Consumer Rating: B+
| Google reviews score | 4.9/5 |
| Total reviews | 5/5 |
| Score consistency | 5/5 |
Our Rating: B
| Inspection process | 4.3/5 |
| Detailed inspection | 4.3/5 |
| Follows a standardized checklist | 4.3/5 |
| Reliability | 4/5 |
| History of accuracy | 4/5 |
| Same-day availability | 4/5 |
| Detailed report | 4/5 |
| Advanced tools | 4.2/5 |
Wicks Electric has been one of the friendliest electrical safety inspectors we’ve reached out to. Honestly, talking to the receptionist on the phone made us feel like we just asked a neighbor’s help for with a quick electrical inspection.
When the inspector came, he started asking us about our power consumption at home. He even asked for the most-used outlets, including those that we don’t use at all.
He also gave us a few tips on how we can keep our electrical system in good shape, especially on how we can avoid overloading power strips, since we were sort of guilty about that.
And if you ever need assistance on spotting early signs of wear, they will be able to help you on this one, too.
The sudden electrical safety inspection came as a blessing as the inspector found a loose wire behind our kitchen outlet. Yes, at times those power lines or outlets that are less visible could be the culprit, so make sure to have them inspected thoroughly.
While they are open any time of the day, we still had to schedule at least two weeks ahead. So if you’re in a rush, they may not be the best fit for you.
Great communication skills
“Wicks Electric is awesome! I hired them to do a small job at my place and they were very prompt in communication. Technician showed up on time, wasted no time to get to work, was easy to chat with, knew his stuff and was in and out in no time.”
Steve Parr, Google Review
Very transparent right off the bat
“We had a great experience with Wicks Electric. Starting with the initial phone conversation and email thread, I felt really comfortable with the process and all the costs were very transparent from the get-go. When the technician Liam came out, he was very prepared with the potential parts he needed to fix a wonky three-way switch, and patiently answered our questions. I’d be happy to use their services in the future.”
Andrea Brown, Google Review
4. Skylight Electric Ltd
Consumer Rating: B+
| Google reviews score | 4.9/5 |
| Total reviews | 5/5 |
| Score consistency | 5/5 |
Our Rating: B+
| Inspection process | 4.8/5 |
| Detailed inspection | 4.8/5 |
| Follows a standardized checklist | 4.8/5 |
| Reliability | 4.9/5 |
| History of accuracy | 4.9/5 |
| Same-day availability | 4.9/5 |
| Detailed report | 4.5/5 |
| Advanced tools | 4.5/5 |
For someone who gets impressed easily with anything tech, you’ll love that Skylight Electric Ltd uses thermal imaging cameras and other high-tech equipment to inspect your electrical system at home.
Sometimes we don’t notice that there’s an underlying issue, that is why having thorough inspections using advanced technology would be the best choice.
True enough, the inspector saw issues on our breaker panel, which would result in bigger damage. It’s great that the inspector double-checked the panels too, just to ensure he got the readings right.
However, if you’re looking for a friendlier and more personal touch, they may not be the best one for you, as they were really focused on getting the correct data.
For emergency services, you can also rely on these guys. You can even expect them to be at your doorstep twenty minutes after making a call, so make sure to have their number on your speed dial!
When it comes to the inspection report, we’re pleased that they were pretty detailed. But if you’re like us, who aren’t too savvy about the electrical terms, you may have to ask them for further explanation.
We recommend asking them if you’re quite unsure about the report, so you would know which part of your electricity system requires attention.
Reasonably priced
“Cass is such a great guy to help us to install fixed lights in bedroom and kitchen…He never complained and always with a big smile when he is working.Excellent jobs with his professional background.Reasonable rates as well.I want give him TEN stars…”
張老爺, Google Review
Quick response rate
“Skylight electric is the best for all your electrical needs. Their response time was absolutely quick and they are reasonably priced too. Cass came in the very next day to install a ceiling fan and finished the work in like less than 2 hours. He is a thorough professional, witty and knows what he is doing. I would highly recommend skylight electric. Definitely a 5 star 🌟”
Hans Mylabathula, Google Review
5. Davis Electrical
Consumer Rating: B+
| Google reviews score | 4.9/5 |
| Total reviews | 5/5 |
| Score consistency | 5/5 |
Our Rating: B+
| Inspection process | 4.8/5 |
| Detailed inspection | 4.8/5 |
| Follows a standardized checklist | 4.8/5 |
| Reliability | 4/5 |
| History of accuracy | 4/5 |
| Same-day availability | 4/5 |
| Detailed report | 4.9/5 |
| Advanced tools | 4.5/5 |
We’re pretty sure you don’t want to end up talking to electrical safety inspectors who are always in a rush. So, if you need someone that will take their time inspecting, then we highly recommend Davis Electrical.
We experienced coordinating with them for both residential and commercial safety inspection needs, so we really admired them for their consistent quality service.
It helps even more that the inspector assigned to us was confident about what he was doing, which made us trust him easily. It’s great that they follow a methodological approach during inspection, preventing them from missing a spot.
If you have an attic, they will also check the power lines and connections you got there. So if you can, just make sure the inspectors have ample space to move at, especially if you got your attic as your storage area.
They’re also the old-school type, perfect if you still love having things on paper. Expect them to hand you printed sheets of your safety inspection report.
We’re also impressed with their follow-up services. They make sure that everything is working properly, especially if they removed certain power lines during the inspection.
However, it took them quite some time to produce the report, which may not be ideal if you’re in a hurry.
Carefully explains the process
“Matt installed my portable A/C yesterday. He was friendly, professional, and an excellent communicator, both before my appointment and during. I asked a lot of questions and he was great at explaining what I needed to know. I felt safe with him and he was very respectful.”
Janice Laurence, Google Review
Arrives on time
“Matt arrived on time and was very professional. He identified the issue with our ceiling fan and then fixed the wiring for us. I would definitely call on Davis Electrical again and will recommend him to others in our complex. Thanks, Matt!”
Kelly LaRoue, Google Review
