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in si de ha lto n. co m O ak vi lle B ea ve r | T hu rs da y, Ja nu ar y 31 ,2 01 9 | 20 We love being part of your community. That's why we've invested in much more, extremely local news coverage. Now, you can get a wealth of community news in your newspaper. Register online for the latest home-grown neighbourhood news, opinions, insight, photos and much more at InsideHalton.com/register. It's real, local journalism you can trust, dedicated specifically to the place you call home. /registerInsideHalton com Register now to support your local journalism! Sign up now: InsideHalton.com/newsletter OPINION Local issues throughLocal issues through the eyes of experts.the eyes of experts. LOCAL NEWS What you NEED to know today. UNSOLVED Follow the cases that still baffle law enforcement. EVENTS It's your community activity planner. Newsletters collect the local stories you need to know and deliver them to your inbox… Our custom-made newsletters allow you to focus inOur custom-made newsletters allow you to focus inOur custom-made newsletters allow you to focus in on your favourite topics.on your favourite topics. Sign up for FREE today!Sign up for FREE today! The new year brings new wants and needs for the home, and that reno you've been holding off on is now at the top of your mind. Whether it's a simple room makeover or big-time overhaul, it's important to start with a plan. An electrical misstep, in plan- ning or executing, could turn your project into a nightmare. Here, the Electrical Safety Authority shares four tips to help realize the reno of your dreams. Know who to hire for the job Hiring skilled, qualified tradespeople will help achieve a reno that suits your needs and meets safety standards. When build- ing your team, request written estimates from at least three contractors and check at least three references from people who've had similar work done. Find a licensed electrical contractor Whether you're hiring subcontractors on your own or relying on a general contractor, one of the safest and most cost-effective decisions you can make is hiring the right person for the electrical work. By law, if you're hiring someone to do electrical work in Ontario they must be a licensed electri- cal contractor. They will help handle all the details when it comes to electrical work, permits and inspections to make sure your project is safe. Start with a plan What's behind your walls is just as im- portant as what you put on them, so make electrical considerations a priority. Develop- ing a plan early that incorporates all elec- trical components, including lighting and outlet placement, can help to avoid costly changes once the project is complete. Apply for permits Depending on the scope of your reno- vation, building permits may be required - but an ESA electrical permit is always needed. Whether you're hiring a licensed professional for the job or doing it yourself, getting permits ensures your home is pro- tected by your insurance. (NC) Advertorial Four tips to help achieve your 2019 reno resolution