The short answer
Put targeted work and replacement proposals against the same room list, access assumptions, restoration responsibilities and handover requirements.
Define both proposals on the same basis
Ask each provider to use the same room list, known history and access assumptions. Identify what remains in place and what would change under each proposal. A generic price per device or per house can hide different coverage and restoration obligations.
Include disruption and restoration
Ask who arranges access, protects occupied areas, coordinates other trades and restores finishes. Describe planned renovation access without assuming it makes a whole-house rewire automatically necessary or economical. Let the professional recommendations follow the actual evidence.
Compare the final records
Request the same standard of scope documentation, authority records where applicable and open-item list for each option. Keep insurer acceptance separate from a technical proposal. An apparently broader scope still needs a clear description and verified execution.
Bring the records into the Calgary process
For a Calgary property, confirm proposed electrical work and applicable permits with the City and a qualified contractor. Keep Ontario ESA technical background separate from Alberta authority requirements. Use the original scope, report dates and location list when asking for further review. Where the purpose is insurance or a transaction, give the actual documents to the appropriate adviser and record any unresolved question.
Make the next conversation specific
Prepare a short brief that identifies the purpose, material if confirmed, available records and planned access. Add one or two questions you want answered, such as which areas need further assessment or how a proposal addresses the original findings. Avoid uploading private policy details or making a whole-home certification claim from partial records. The online passport can organize the information you already know and send it with your follow-up request.
Keep the scope clear
| Part of the project | Ask for | Keep separate |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment | Purpose, access and written deliverable | Is this included in the work quotation? |
| Targeted work | Included locations and selected method | Which areas remain outside the scope? |
| Replacement | Circuits, room changes and restoration | What stays in place? |
| Closeout | Permit/inspection requirements and records | Who supplies the final documents? |
Questions to take forward
- What remains outside each option?
- Who restores access openings?
- How will completed coverage be documented?
Common questions
Does aluminum wiring mean a house needs a complete rewire?
Not automatically. The actual wiring, connections, prior modifications and condition need a property-specific assessment. A qualified electrical professional can explain whether targeted work or broader replacement is appropriate; an insurer may have separate requirements.
Can I use a price per outlet to budget the entire home?
Only if the provider explains what that unit price includes and establishes the actual locations, access and exclusions. It is not a complete assessment or whole-home quotation.
Continue your evidence file
Official sources and local scope
- Electrical Safety Authority — aluminum wiring ↗
Ontario technical context: property-specific assessment, connection and equipment suitability, and the distinction between older branch wiring and larger aluminum conductors. Ontario inspection procedures do not apply to Calgary.
- City of Calgary — electrical permits for contractors ↗
Calgary permit applications, contractor registration and applicable inspection process. Confirm requirements for the actual proposed scope.
- City of Calgary — homeowner trade permits ↗
Calgary homeowner eligibility and limitations. Contractor work needs the appropriate contractor permit process.
- Government of Alberta — electrical codes and standards ↗
Alberta code adoption and current STANDATA. Check the current edition and applicable interpretations with the professional and authority.
- Alberta Tradesecrets — electrician scope of profession ↗
Alberta electrician trade scope. Ask who will perform, supervise and document the work.
- Safety Codes Council — safety tips ↗
Alberta safety resources, including aluminum wiring information and permit/inspection context.