Electrical contracting crew for renos and new builds

Lead a small crew with an apprentice, taking on renovations, small builds and light commercial wiring.

Startup costC$30k to C$90k
Monthly revenueC$20k to C$80k
Time needed40+ h/week
First incomeMonths
  • C$30k-90k
  • Full-time
  • Out and about
  • Licence or permit needed

Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.

What it is

A small electrical contracting company: you and one or more employees or apprentices wiring renovations, additions, new homes and small commercial spaces, often as a subcontractor to builders.

Your first three steps

  1. Check your province's electrical contractor licensing and apprenticeship supervision rules
  2. Get insurance, set up payroll and WCB/WSIB coverage, and arrange a van and tools for the crew
  3. Introduce yourself to local builders and renovators and offer to quote on their next project
Who pays

General contractors, builders, renovators, property owners and small commercial clients.

How it makes money

Quoted project prices or contract rates, with labour and materials priced in. A crew can take larger jobs than one person.

Skills that help
  • Journeyperson-level electrical trade skills
  • Estimating and project planning
  • Supervising and training apprentices
Watch out for
  • Contractor licensing, permit and inspection rules differ by province, check with your regulator
  • Apprentice supervision ratios and registration requirements
  • Payroll, WCB/WSIB, and commercial general liability insurance costs
  • Late payment from builders can strain cash flow, check payment terms and holdback rules in your province

🔒 Full research report for Canada

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to start an electrical contracting company in Canada?

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $30,000 to $90,000, depending on vehicles, tools, insurance and how many people you bring on. Use this as an estimate and build your own budget.

How much can a small electrical contracting crew earn?

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on the size of your crew and the jobs you win. Plan on at least about 40 hours a week. Late payment from builders can strain cash flow.

What rules should I check before starting an electrical contracting crew?

Check contractor licensing, permit and inspection rules with your provincial regulator, as they differ by province. Also check apprentice supervision ratios and registration, payroll, WCB/WSIB, liability insurance costs, and payment terms and holdback rules.

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