The Electrical Checklist Every Business Owner Should Follow Before Renovating a Commercial Space
- Logan Kaisser
- Jul 17
- 4 min read
Renovating a commercial space is an exciting opportunity for any business owner. Whether you are upgrading your office layout, expanding a retail storefront, or refreshing an outdated facility, renovations can breathe new life into your operations and improve customer experience. But before any drywall is removed or new lighting is installed, one critical factor must be prioritized: your electrical system.
Failing to properly assess and upgrade your electrical infrastructure can lead to costly delays, code violations, safety risks, and inefficient power use. At Platinum Power Solutions, we have helped countless businesses across Winnipeg and throughout Manitoba navigate the electrical challenges of commercial renovations. This guide outlines the essential electrical checklist every business owner should follow to ensure their renovation runs smoothly and safely.
Step 1: Schedule a Pre-Renovation Electrical Inspection
Before making any changes to your commercial space, bring in a licensed electrician for a thorough inspection of your existing electrical system. This includes:
Checking the electrical panel for adequate capacity
Evaluating the condition and type of wiring
Inspecting outlets, circuits, and safety disconnects
Verifying compliance with current Canadian Electrical Code standards
A detailed assessment allows you to identify potential issues early and ensure your upgrade plan aligns with your current infrastructure. In many cases, older buildings in Winnipeg still operate with outdated panels and insufficient wiring for modern equipment.
Step 2: Determine Your Power Load Needs
One of the most common oversights in commercial renovations is underestimating power requirements. A sleek new workspace may call for additional lighting, advanced HVAC systems, more outlets, and high-performance technology.
Take time to map out your expected power usage by identifying:
The number of new workstations or devices
Specialized equipment such as servers, printers, or display monitors
Kitchen or breakroom appliances
Security or surveillance systems
Exterior lighting or signage
This information helps your electrician recommend the right upgrades and avoid overload issues that could result in tripped breakers, short circuits, or even electrical fires.
Step 3: Plan for Future Expansion
A smart renovation does more than meet current demands. It anticipates future growth. Your electrical plan should include enough capacity and flexibility to accommodate future staff additions, tech upgrades, or equipment purchases.
We always recommend allowing at least a 20 to 30 percent buffer in your electrical load calculations. This ensures that your system remains reliable even as your business evolves.
Step 4: Upgrade Your Electrical Panel If Needed
Outdated or overloaded panels are a common bottleneck in older commercial properties. If your panel is more than 20 years old or does not have space for additional circuits, an upgrade may be necessary.
Modern electrical panels:
Allow for better distribution of power across systems
Include advanced safety features such as arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs)
Reduce the risk of fire or component damage
Prepare your business for higher power usage and code compliance
Upgrading your panel is a wise investment that pays off in performance, safety, and peace of mind.
Step 5: Consider Energy Efficiency
Commercial renovations offer an ideal opportunity to make your building more energy efficient. This not only reduces utility bills but also enhances your brand image as an environmentally conscious business.
Work with your electrician to explore:
LED lighting upgrades
Occupancy sensors and programmable timers
High-efficiency HVAC wiring
Smart thermostats and building automation systems
Solar-ready wiring and integration if future plans include renewable energy
With Manitoba’s cold winters and long lighting hours, even small changes can make a big impact on your energy use.
Step 6: Ensure Code Compliance
All electrical work must meet the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and local building regulations. Failing to meet these standards can result in failed inspections, fines, or delays that stall your renovation project.
At Platinum Power Solutions, we handle the permitting process, coordinate with city inspectors, and ensure every wire, outlet, and circuit is installed to code. This saves you time, prevents legal issues, and ensures your business can open its doors as planned.
Step 7: Protect Against Power Interruptions
If your business relies heavily on uninterrupted service, such as a medical clinic, retail store, or restaurant, backup power solutions should be part of your renovation plan.
Options include:
Installing an automatic standby generator
Adding an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system
Isolating essential circuits for emergency use
These systems prevent lost revenue during blackouts and keep your operations running even during severe Manitoba storms.
Step 8: Integrate Smart Technology
Smart electrical systems are no longer a luxury; they are a competitive advantage. With smart integration, you can manage your building’s lighting, climate, and security remotely or on a schedule.
Consider:
Smart switches and dimmers
App-controlled thermostats
Integrated alarm and camera systems
Remote access control systems for staff or deliveries
Smart technology boosts convenience and can increase property value.
Your Commercial Renovation Electrical Checklist
When to Call a Professional
While it is helpful to understand your electrical needs as a business owner, commercial renovation work should never be attempted without professional guidance. DIY shortcuts or hiring underqualified contractors can compromise safety, cause delays, and invalidate insurance policies.
At Platinum Power Solutions, we offer:
Expert consultation and inspection services
Full-service panel upgrades and rewiring
Energy-efficient retrofitting
Commercial generator installations
Smart building integrations
Permitting and inspection coordination
We are a Winnipeg-based, locally owned and operated electrical company led by Logan Kaisser, serving all of Manitoba with pride. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, because we understand that business does not stop when the sun goes down.
Ready to Renovate with Confidence?
Do not let electrical surprises derail your commercial renovation project. With the right planning and professional support, your new space will be safe, efficient, and future-ready.
Let Platinum Power Solutions handle your next commercial renovation with the care and expertise your business deserves.
Contact us today:
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