If you live in an older condo or strata building, there’s a good chance your electrical system wasn’t built for the way we live today. Electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps, in-suite laundry, and air conditioning are all things that use a lot of power, and when more units start installing them, the electrical load can add up fast.
That’s why many older buildings are now looking at electrical service upgrades. It’s not just about getting more power, it’s about making sure your building stays safe, code-compliant, and ready for whatever comes next.
An electrical service upgrade increases the amount of power your building can safely handle. It usually involves:
This work must always be done by a licensed electrical contractor and always requires permits and inspections. There’s no cutting corners here.
If your building was built before the 2000s, it likely wouldn’t have been designed with today’s energy use in mind. Back then, EV chargers and heat pumps weren’t even on the radar, whereas today they’re everywhere. Common upgrades that strain the system include:
Unlike houses, multi-unit buildings share electrical infrastructure, so when lots of residents upgrade at once, it can push the whole system past its safe limit.
Here are a few signs that your building’s electrical infrastructure may be due for an upgrade:
If any of this sounds familiar, or if your strata is planning new amenities, it’s worth getting a professional opinion.
Every building's different, but here’s what the process usually looks like:
1. Load Calculation
An electrical licensed contractor or engineer figures out how much power the building uses now, and how much more it will need in the future. They might also recommend energy management strategies to help handle load increases smartly.
2. Permit and Planning
The contractor applies for an electrical installation permit, and in many cases, works with the local utility company if upgrades are needed for incoming lines, or other utility-side gear.
3. Equipment Upgrades
This could include new main panels or switchgear, bigger feeders or upgraded meters, or
replacing old breakers and wiring.
Yes, some EV charger and heat pump-related upgrades may qualify for rebates through programs like CleanBC, BC Hydro, and FortisBC.
Usually you will need a valid electrical installation permit, a licensed electrical contractor doing the work, and proof of eligible equipment.
Keep in mind that rebate details can vary, especially when it comes to energy management systems.
When you’re already investing in a major upgrade, it’s smart to think ahead. Some things to factor in:
It often costs less to build in a little extra capacity now than to upgrade again later.
Upgrading your building’s electrical service might sound like a big job, but it’s also an investment in safety, sustainability, and convenience for everyone who lives there.
If you’re on a strata council or condo board, start the conversation early. Talk to licensed pros, get a proper load assessment, and make sure everyone’s on the same page.
With the right planning, you can future-proof your building and support the tech upgrades your residents want.