Common Mistakes Strata Councils Make With Electrical Operating Permits
Operating PermitsCommon Mistakes Strata Councils Make With Electrical Operating Permits
When it comes to managing electrical safety in strata buildings, Electrical Operating Permits (EOPs) are one of the most important—yet misunderstood—tools. These permits are legally required for many buildings in British Columbia and are overseen by Technical Safety BC (TSBC). But even when a strata council has the permit in place, they often make critical errors that lead to compliance issues, liability exposure, or even permit suspension.
Whether you’re a seasoned strata council member or new to the role, this article outlines the most common mistakes strata councils make with electrical operating permits—and, more importantly, how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Not Assigning or Replacing a Field Safety Representative (FSR)
Every electrical operating permit must have a designated Field Safety Representative (FSR). This certified professional is legally responsible for overseeing all regulated work done under the permit.
Why This Is a Problem
- Without an active FSR, your permit is not valid
- Any electrical work performed without FSR supervision is non-compliant
- TSBC can suspend your permit if they discover the FSR is missing or inactive
How to Avoid It
- Assign an FSR during the initial application process
- Maintain regular communication with the FSR
- Immediately notify TSBC if your FSR resigns or is no longer available
- Confirm that your FSR holds the correct class of certification for your building’s systems
Mistake #2: Failing to Maintain a Proper Logbook
The permit logbook is a required compliance record that documents all regulated electrical work performed under your EOP.
What Often Goes Wrong
- Work is performed but not recorded
- Only major jobs are logged, while small maintenance tasks are skipped
- The logbook is misplaced or only accessible to one person
How to Avoid It
- Keep a centralized, up-to-date logbook (physical or digital)
- Log all regulated work—no matter how minor
- Make sure your FSR and property manager have access
- Train council members on how to read and update the log if needed
💡 Tip: Treat the logbook like your financial ledger—something that should always be accurate, accessible, and ready for review.
Mistake #3: Skipping the Annual Declaration
Every year, strata corporations must submit an Annual Operating Permit Declaration to Technical Safety BC. This confirms that all work done under the permit complied with safety standards and that proper documentation was maintained.
Why It Matters
- Failing to submit the declaration may result in permit suspension
- Without it, TSBC has no confirmation that your systems are safely maintained
- It may impact insurance claims or resale disclosures
How to Avoid It
- Set calendar reminders at least one month before your permit anniversary
- Confirm with your FSR that the declaration is submitted on time
- Assign a strata council liaison to follow up and retain a copy of the form
Mistake #4: Confusing Operating Permits with Installation Permits
Some councils think their installation permit (for a specific project like an EV charger install) covers ongoing electrical work. It doesn’t.
What’s the Difference?
- Installation Permit = One-time project
- Operating Permit = Ongoing maintenance and regulated work
How to Avoid It
- Understand which permit applies to which activity
- Don’t assume your contractor is handling both—ask directly
- Review TSBC’s permit requirements or speak with your FSR for clarity
Mistake #5: Assuming Your Electrician Is Handling Everything
Many strata councils assume that once they hire a licensed electrician, they’re off the hook when it comes to permits and compliance. Unfortunately, this isn’t true.
The Risk
- If your contractor isn’t listed as your FSR or isn’t maintaining records, your permit is at risk
- Council members remain legally responsible for compliance
How to Avoid It
- Always verify that your electrician is your designated FSR
- Ensure all work is being logged and reviewed by your FSR
- Put formal agreements in writing outlining responsibilities
Mistake #6: Not Reviewing or Understanding the Scope of the Permit
An electrical operating permit is issued for specific systems and types of work. Councils sometimes authorize work outside the permit’s scope—often unknowingly.
Real-World Example
A building installs new EV charging stations but assumes it falls under their existing EOP. It doesn’t—they needed a separate installation permit.
How to Avoid It
- Review your EOP scope when considering any upgrades
- Ask your FSR or TSBC if additional permits are needed
- Maintain a record of your permit class and declared scope in your council files
Mistake #7: Letting the Permit Expire Without Realizing It
Life gets busy. Council turnover happens. But forgetting to renew your permit means your building is no longer authorized to perform electrical work—and may be operating unsafely.
How to Avoid It
- Add your EOP expiry to your annual strata calendar
- Assign a council member or property manager to handle renewal
- Ensure payment is submitted and the FSR remains active and assigned
Summary
Electrical Operating Permits are a vital part of managing building safety in British Columbia strata corporations—but too often, they’re treated like a “set it and forget it” file.
Avoiding these common mistakes will keep your permit compliant, your residents safe, and your strata protected from enforcement action or liability.
Key Takeaways:
- ✅ Always have an active, certified FSR
- ✅ Keep your logbook current and complete
- ✅ Submit your annual declaration on time
- ✅ Know when you need additional permits
- ✅ Don’t assume your electrician is handling compliance for you
- ✅ Review the scope of your permit before any new work
- ✅ Set reminders for annual renewal
Taking a proactive, informed approach to your EOP isn’t just about compliance—it’s about leadership, safety, and trust in your community’s infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is responsible for the electrical operating permit—the electrician or the strata?
The strata corporation holds the permit. The FSR oversees technical compliance, but the council is responsible for the permit’s validity and usage.
Can we assign a new FSR ourselves?
Yes, but the new FSR must be qualified and registered with TSBC. You must notify TSBC immediately after the change.
Is the permit logbook something TSBC will actually check?
Yes. If you’re audited or inspected, TSBC may request to review your logbook, FSR credentials, and past declarations.
What if we miss the annual declaration deadline?
TSBC may suspend your permit, which means no regulated electrical work can legally be performed until the issue is resolved.
Can we combine installation and operating permits?
No. They serve different purposes. An installation permit is for one-time upgrades; an operating permit covers maintenance and ongoing work.