Do I need a permit to replace my home's electrical panel in Metro Vancouver?

Yes, you absolutely need a permit to replace your home's electrical panel in Metro Vancouver. This is major electrical work that requires both a licensed electrical contractor and inspection by Technical Safety BC (TSBC).

Electrical panel replacement is not DIY work — it involves working with the main electrical service, which can be deadly if done incorrectly. In British Columbia, only licensed electrical contractors can perform this work legally. The contractor must pull the permit, complete the installation to current electrical code standards, and arrange for TSBC inspection before the panel can be energized.

The permit process involves your electrical contractor applying through your municipal building department. In Vancouver, this goes through the City's building permit system (604-873-7000 or vancouver.ca). Other Metro Vancouver municipalities have their own processes — Surrey (604-591-4086), Burnaby (604-294-7130), Richmond (604-276-4000), and so on. The electrical contractor typically handles all permit paperwork as part of their service.

Technical Safety BC inspection is mandatory — they'll inspect the work to ensure it meets current electrical code requirements. This isn't optional or something you can skip. TSBC regulates all electrical work in BC (not ESA like in Ontario), and they must sign off before BC Hydro will connect power to your new panel. The inspection fee is typically included in your contractor's quote.

Panel upgrades often trigger additional requirements under current electrical code. If you're upgrading from an old 100-amp panel to 200-amp service, you may need new grounding systems, AFCI/GFCI breakers in certain circuits, or even service line upgrades from BC Hydro. Your contractor will identify these requirements during their assessment.

Expect the process to take 1-3 weeks from permit application to final inspection, depending on your municipality's workload and contractor availability. Vancouver permits are notoriously backlogged, while suburban municipalities often move faster. The work itself typically takes 1-2 days, but you'll be without power for several hours during the changeover.

Costs in Metro Vancouver typically range from $2,500-$5,000 for a standard residential panel upgrade, including permits and inspection. Factors affecting price include panel size (100A vs 200A), accessibility, age of existing wiring, and whether service upgrades are needed. Vancouver construction costs run 15-25% above national averages.

Your next step is getting quotes from licensed electrical contractors who will handle the entire permit process. Never hire anyone who suggests skipping permits — your insurance could be voided, and you'll face expensive corrections later when selling your home.