About the Electrical Unit
The Electrical Code was enacted to establish standards to protect both the public and property in the City of New York.

In 2003, the City adopted the National Electrical Code (NEC), with local amendments. The NEC, a recognized industry standard, is being revised every 3 years. The edition currently in effect is the 2005 NEC. Electrical work is defined by the NYC Electrical Code as “the installation, alteration, maintenance or repair of any electric wires and wiring apparatus and other appliances used or to be used for the transmission of electricity for light, heat, power, signaling, communications, alarm or data transmission.”

The Department of Buildings  Electrical Division performs inspections of electrical work and also responds to complaints of defective/exposed wiring or unlicensed electrical work. Electrical inspectors work in all five Department of Buildings borough offices. The Division also issues electrical permits upon receipt of properly completed applications.

Application and Permit Information
Electrical installations must be performed by electrical contractors who are licensed by the Department of Buildings. To verify that a contractor is licensed, see License Status for instructions to use the Buildings Information System (BISWeb) or contact the Department of Buildings Licensing Division.

Before beginning work, electrical contractors are required to file an application for an inspection and a subsequent sign-off. Approved sign-off permits can be viewed on BISWeb. For more process information, see the electrical permit Service Notices.

For more information on electrical permits, see the Electrical Permits Brochure.

Tips for homeowners when hiring contractors

• Ensure that a contractor is licensed by checking BISWeb and using the Skilled Trades Licenses Search. You can find a licensee's business address, insurance status and license status or for a list of licensed contractors, contact the Licensing Division.
• To find if there are any outstanding complaints against a licensee, contact the Buildings Special Investigations Unit (BSIU) in writing.
• The Department of Buildings does not have any jurisdiction over the fee charged to consumers. To find out if you were overcharged for work performed, contact the Department of Consumer Affairs or dial 311.

eFiling allows registered licensed electricians to submit an application for a work permit electronically. The system will instantaneously process and review the application. When the application process is complete, the electrician can simply print the permit from their own computer and begin work that same day.

Learn more about eFiling.

Inspections
By law, electrical devices cannot be used before a final inspection is performed and a sign-off certification is recorded.

If you want to schedule an inspection appointment, or have any electrical related questions, please contact the Electrical Unit.

Violations
To resolve electrical violations, a licensed electrician must be hired to file an application with the Department of Buildings and correct the violations. Violation corrections may be self-certified by a licensed electrician.

Electrical Division Initiatives

• To learn more about the Electrical Code or to purchase a copy of the code, see National Electrical Code (NEC).
• For more information on sign-off certification on BISWeb, see the Sign-off Service Notices.
• eFiling Information

Complaints

• To report unprofessional conduct by a licensed electrician, contact the Buildings Special Investigations Unit (BSIU).
• To report an unlicensed electrician doing work, contact the Office of Internal Audits and Discipline (IAD).
• To report work being performed without a permit, dial 311 and register a complaint.