EP 071 | What Interior Designers Need to Know About Electrical Planning with Steve Smith

How can interior designers reduce risk and deliver safer, more successful renovation projects?

In this episode, Kimberley Seldon speaks with Steve Smith of the Electrical Safety Authority about the critical role electrical planning plays in residential renovations. From permits and product compliance to trade collaboration and lighting decisions, Steve shares practical advice that helps designers protect their clients, their projects, and their businesses.

For interior designers managing renovations, this conversation is a valuable reminder that expertise, planning, and strong trade relationships are essential to project success.

In this episode, we learn:
• Why early planning creates better collaboration with trades and consultants
• How proper permits help protect designers, contractors, and homeowners
• Why discussing plans with trades before presenting to clients builds confidence and credibility
• How non-compliant products can create costly safety and installation issues
• Why understanding lighting, bulb types, and color temperature improves project outcomes
• How trusted trade partners help designers navigate technical requirements and reduce risk 

Take Aways

Four Questions to ask your Licensed Electrical Contractor

1. What is your license number? (then verify!)
2. Will you provide a written estimate, including electrical permit fees?
3. Can you provide three references?
4. Will you provide a certificate of inspection following completion?

Design Intervention

Planning ahead and collaboration with your licensed electrical contractor will improve your knowledge prior to presenting to the client.

Steve Smith is the General Manager of the Electrical Safety Authority’s (ESA’s) Central Region.

He manages 55 electrical inspectors and is responsible for overseeing the delivery of ESA’s regulatory duties within central Ontario, which include monitoring and enforcing compliance with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.

Steve has worked with ESA (formerly a department of Ontario Hydro) for 32 years and has held many roles during that time, including Inspector, Senior Inspector, Technical Advisor, Project Manager and Director of Appeals. He is also on the Board of Directors of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors.

Prior to working with ESA and Ontario Hydro, Steve was a Master Electrician specializing in fire alarms as well as an instructor and training coordinator at the Joint Apprenticeship Council.

Steve is a certified Electrician RSE, C&M and Industrial (309A(D), 442), Master Electrician, Certified Engineering Technician, Certified Electrical Inspector, Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator and Certified Fire Alarm Electrician.

The Electrical Safety Authority’s (ESA’s) role is to enhance public electrical safety in Ontario. As an administrative authority acting on behalf of the Government of Ontario, ESA is responsible for administering specific regulations related to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, the licensing of Electrical Contractors and Master Electricians, electricity distribution system safety, and electrical product safety. ESA works extensively with stakeholders throughout the province on education, training and promotion to foster electrical safety across the province.

More information on the Electrical Safety Authority can be found at esasafe.com