March 10, 2016 – Ontario’s Electrical Safety Authority has teamed up with designer Kimberley Seldon to convince homeowners that a great home renovation consists of two parts: what you see, and what you don’t… like a safe, compliant electrical installation.

“In 25 years as a designer, I’ve learned what’s behind your walls is just as important as what you put on them,” said Seldon. “Many of today’s hottest kitchen trends—coffee bars, super pantries, feature backsplashes—have electrical implications that are too often overlooked or considered late in the planning process. Not planning upfront can mean big trouble and extra costs later.”

Electrical considerations are a must when it comes to planning a successful renovation project, says ESA. Despite the fact that more than 25% of electrical home fires are caused by faulty wiring and equipment, ESA says only 51% of Ontarians are aware of the legal requirement to hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC).

ESA and Seldon are helping you to Power Your Reno by providing Ontarians with advice for renovations “that are both stunning and safe”. Power Your Reno will take consumers through every room in the home, covering a variety of projects.

For example, ESA says peninsula and fixed-island counters that are not against a wall require outlets installed in the cabinet structure, which means you’ll have to accommodate for wiring. Also, receptacles enclosed within cabinetry (a.k.a. appliance garage) require an interlocking switch that turns Off power when the door is closed… an important consideration for a “super pantry” or even a coffee station when you’re planning to have enclosed appliances.

To help kick-off the Power Your Reno campaign ESA is launching a Kitchen Inspiration contest through its new Pinterest account. Visitors are encouraged to build boards using #poweryourreno and comment on the contest rules pin for the chance to win a free online design consultation with Kimberley Seldon and a $500 Visa gift card.

ESA reminds you that, when you are hiring someone to do electrical work in your home—either directly or via your designer or general—it must, by law, be a Licensed Electrical Contractor. Always ask for a certificate of inspection when the electrical work is complete for insurance and resale purposes… and mention peace of mind.

The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) is an administrative authority acting on behalf of the Government of Ontario with specific responsibilities under the Electricity Act and the Safety and Consumer Statutes Administration Act. Its primary activities are: identifying and targeting leading causes of electrical safety risk; ensuring compliance with regulations; promoting awareness, education & training; and collaborating with stakeholders to improve the state of electrical safety in Ontario.