Home renovations are exciting — but without proper electrical planning, they can quickly become expensive and stressful.
Many Victoria homeowners focus on finishes and layouts, only to discover too late that their electrical system isn’t ready.
At AE Electric & HVAC Systems Ltd, we help homeowners plan electrical upgrades before renovations begin — saving time, money, and frustration.
Why Electrical Planning Matters Before Renovations
Electrical work is easiest and least expensive when walls are open.
Poor planning can lead to:
- Extra demolition
- Delays and failed inspections
- Limited outlet and lighting options
- Unsafe or overloaded circuits
Proper planning ensures your renovation supports both current and future needs.
Common Electrical Mistakes During Renovations
We often see homeowners make these mistakes:
- Not upgrading an outdated panel
- Adding too few outlets
- Forgetting dedicated circuits for appliances
- Ignoring future upgrades (EV chargers, heat pumps)
- Using unlicensed contractors
Avoiding these issues early prevents costly rework later.
Panel Capacity: The Foundation of Every Renovation
Before adding new rooms, appliances, or lighting, your electrical panel must be assessed.
Many older Victoria homes have:
- 100-amp service
- Limited breaker space
- Fuse boxes
A panel upgrade ensures your home can safely support your renovation and future electrification.
Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Suites Need Special Planning
Certain areas require additional electrical considerations:
Kitchens
- Dedicated circuits for major appliances
- GFCI and AFCI protection
- Proper lighting design
Bathrooms
- Code-compliant outlet placement
- Ventilation and heating loads
Basement or Secondary Suites
- Separate circuits
- Smoke and CO detectors
- Permit and inspection requirements
Think Beyond the Renovation
Smart homeowners plan renovations with the future in mind.
Consider preparing for:
- Heat pump installation
- EV chargers
- Smart home systems
- Solar or battery storage
Adding capacity now is far cheaper than upgrading later.
Permits and Inspections Matter
Electrical work during renovations requires:
- Proper permits
- Licensed electricians
- Final inspections
Unpermitted work can lead to safety risks, insurance issues, and resale problems.
How We Help Renovation Projects Succeed
At AE Electric & HVAC Systems Ltd, we work with homeowners, designers, and contractors to:
- Assess electrical capacity
- Plan upgrades efficiently
- Coordinate permits
- Complete work safely and on schedule
Our goal is to make your renovation smooth and future-ready.
Book a Pre-Renovation Electrical Assessment
Before you start your renovation, let us review your electrical system.
A short assessment can help you avoid costly mistakes and plan upgrades the right way.
Book Your Electrical Planning Assessment Today
Serving homeowners across Victoria and Vancouver Island.
📞 (250) 589-3314
📧 support@ae-electric.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
Should electrical work be done before drywall?
Yes. Electrical upgrades should always be completed before walls are closed.
Do renovations usually require a panel upgrade?
Not always, but many older homes benefit from increased capacity.
Can I reuse old wiring?
It depends on its condition and whether it meets current code.