RENTAL HOUSING INSPECTIONS
AND ELECTRICAL INSPECTIONS IN HAMITLON
Understanding the Rental Housing
Licensing Program
In August 2021, Hamilton City Council approved a two-year Rental Housing Licensing Pilot Program for Wards 1, 8, and parts of Ward 14. This pilot required owners of rental properties in these areas to apply for a licence for each rented unit.
The application period ran from 2022 to 2023, with the pilot officially starting January 1, 2024 and continuing until December 31, 2025.
Following the pilot, City Council approved a permanent Rental Housing Licensing Program in December 2025 through Report PED21067(g). The permanent program continues within Wards 1, 8, and parts of Ward 14, with plans to report back on possible expansion into additional wards.
Refer to the City of Hamilton web site https://www.hamilton.ca/build-invest-grow/starting-small-business/business-licences/rental-housing-licence#what-rental-requires-a-licence
What properties require a Licence?
A rental housing licence is required for:
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Rental units or buildings with five (5) or fewer self-contained units
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Detached homes
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Townhouses
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Properties located within Wards 1, 8, and parts of Ward 14
If your property falls within these areas and categories, licensing is mandatory.
Electrical Inspections & Compliance
As part of the licensing process, properties must meet health and safety standards, which include a professional electrical inspection.
Electrical inspections typically review:
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Main electrical panels and breakers
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Grounding and bonding
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GFCI and AFCI protection
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Outlet and switch condition
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Smoke and carbon monoxide detector power supply
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General wiring condition and safety concerns
Rental units may continue to be rented during the licensing application process, unless an inspection identifies immediate health or safety violations that require urgent correction.
Why Electrical Inspections Matter
Electrical inspections help ensure:
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Tenant safety
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Compliance with City of Hamilton requirements
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Reduced risk of fire or electrical failure
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A smoother licensing approval process
Addressing electrical issues early can prevent delays, fines, or enforcement actions.
Need an Electrical Inspection?
We provide thorough, professional electrical inspections designed to help landlords and property owners meet Rental Housing Licensing requirements with confidence.
📞 Contact us today to book your electrical inspection or to discuss your rental property compliance needs.
Contact us today for a free estimate!