What Does a Licensed Electrician Actually Do?

A licensed electrician installs, repairs, inspects and upgrades the electrical systems that power your home. This can include diagnosing electrical problems, replacing an outdated panel, installing new circuits or outlets, updating wiring, adding lighting, connecting a generator and making sure the completed work meets applicable electrical requirements.

When something electrical stops working, the cause is not always obvious. A licensed electrician can assess the problem, explain whether a repair or upgrade is needed and complete the work safely and properly.

What Can a Licensed Electrician Help With?

Electrical Inspections & Diagnostics – Identify issues before they become a problem such as outlets that have stopped working, frequently tripped breakers, flickering lights, or other unexplained electrical issues.

Panel Repairs & Upgrades – Replace outdated or undersized panels to better support your home’s electrical needs.

Wiring & Rewiring – From minor fixes to full-home rewiring during a renovation, electricians ensure everything is safely and properly connected.

Lighting Installation – Whether it’s indoor ambiance or outdoor security, electricians install all types of lighting in accordance with electrical code and safety standards.

Outlet & Switch Repairs – Upgrade to GFCI outlets or simply add more access points where needed.

Whole Home Surge Protection – Install whole-home surge protectors to safeguard against power surges.

Generator Installations – Ensure your backup power system is properly connected and ready for emergencies.

Code Compliance – Ensure all work meets local electrical codes and safety standards.

When Might You Need a Licensed Electrician?

You may know what you want to install without knowing what electrical work is required to support it. A licensed electrician can help connect the project you have in mind with the electrical changes your home may need.

Common examples include:

You are renovating a kitchen, bathroom or basement. The project may require new lighting, outlets, switches or dedicated circuits.

You are installing equipment with a significant electrical load. An EV charger, hot tub, electric range or other major addition may require an assessment of your panel and available electrical capacity.

You are adding outdoor power or lighting. Exterior installations need equipment and connections suited to their location and exposure to the weather.

Your home does not have enough outlets. An electrician can determine whether additional outlets or circuits are a better solution than continued reliance on extension cords and power bars.

Your electrical needs have changed. Older systems were not always designed for the number of appliances, electronics and connected devices used in homes today.

You want backup power. An electrician can help determine how a generator should connect to your electrical system based on the equipment you want to keep powered.

Frequently Asked Questions About Licensed Electricians

What is the difference between an electrician and an electrical contractor?

An electrician is a trained tradesperson who performs electrical work. An electrical contractor is the business responsible for offering and managing that work. Licensing and permit requirements vary by province, so homeowners should confirm the requirements that apply where they live.

Do I need to know what electrical repair I need before booking?

No. Describe the issue you are experiencing, such as a tripped breaker, non-working outlet or flickering light. A licensed electrician can inspect the system, identify the likely cause and recommend the appropriate repair.

Can an electrician tell me whether my panel can support new equipment?

Yes. When you are considering an EV charger, hot tub, major appliance or another addition with significant electrical demand, an electrician can assess your existing panel and available electrical capacity before recommending the required work.

Experiencing electrical issues and not sure what to do? Have a read through our Electrical Troubleshooting Guide.

At Reliance®, our licensed electricians can handle everything from routine repairs to complex installations—safely and efficiently. Ready to book your appointment? Call on Reliance!