Updated August 2026
Electrical Permits for a Heat Pump Install
We file every heat pump installation with Technical Safety BC, and the load calculation we run beforehand tells us whether your electrical panel needs an upgrade before the system goes in.
Updated August 2026
Every heat pump install in BC needs an electrical permit, covering the new circuit for the outdoor unit and any panel work the system needs. We handle the filing as part of every job, so you're not the one dealing with the paperwork.
A permit is the official sign-off that your work meets the BC Building Code and provincial safety standards — checked before the job starts and again once it's finished.
A licensed crew pulls the permits as part of heat pump installation.
What does the permit actually cover?
Technical Safety BC is the authority for electrical work in BC. Before we file anything, we run a load calculation to confirm your existing panel can carry the new system — and if it can't, we file the panel upgrade on the same permit.
| Permit | Filed by | Required when |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical installation permit | Licensed electrical contractor | Every heat pump install |
| Panel upgrade permit | Licensed electrical contractor | When the load calculation shows your panel is short on capacity |
Filed with Technical Safety BC.
Do I need a permit for a heat pump?
Yes — every install requires an electrical permit from Technical Safety BC, filed by a licensed electrical contractor before work starts.
Will I need to upgrade my panel?
It depends on your home's existing capacity and what else is drawing power. We run the load calculation before quoting, so you know upfront if a panel upgrade is part of the job.
Can I pull the permit myself?
No — Technical Safety BC requires a licensed contractor to file electrical permits for a heat pump install. We handle that as part of every job.
Who pulls the permit — you or us?
- 1
On-site assessment — we confirm your electrical capacity and which permits the job needs.
- 2
Permits pulled — our licensed electrical contractor files them — plus a gas contractor if a gas appliance is coming out.
- 3
Installation and inspection — we complete the work and it's inspected against code.
- 4
Rebate paperwork — we submit your CleanBC application and itemize the rebate on your invoice.
For pricing, see the heat pump cost guide.
We pull heat pump permits across the Regional District of Nanaimo, including Nanoose Bay, Coombs, Errington and French Creek.
If you're not sure which permits your project needs, request a free assessment and we'll handle the filing for you.