đź’ˇ Why Certification Matters: The Hidden Dangers of Cheap, Uncertified Lights
“If it’s not certified, it’s not covered.”
You’ve seen the deals—light fixtures or LED bulbs online for half the price you'd pay at a local shop. But behind those tempting discounts could be a serious fire hazard, electrical risk, or a denied insurance claim waiting to happen.
Let’s break down why certified lighting matters in Ontario, and how cutting corners can cost you far more in the long run.
⚠️ What Happens When You Buy Cheap, Uncertified Lights?
Uncertified products are often:
- Poorly made with low-quality materials
- Prone to overheating or short-circuiting
- Lacking basic electrical safety protections
- Missing proper thermal regulation
- Manufactured without inspection or oversight
These products can cause fires, electric shocks, and interference with other appliances—and in the worst cases, property loss or personal injury.
🔌 Do Lighting Products Need Certification in Canada?
Yes—electrical products sold or installed in Canada are required by law to be certified by a body accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC).
Common approved marks include:
- CSA (Canadian Standards Association)
- ULC (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada)
- cUL / cETL (Canadian versions of U.S. safety marks)
If a bulb, driver, or fixture doesn’t carry one of these marks, it’s not legally approved for sale or installation in Ontario.
Insurance Risk: What If Something Goes Wrong?
If your house burns down and the cause is traced to uncertified or improperly installed lighting, your insurance provider can deny your claim. This has happened in real Ontario cases.
- A fire investigator will look for certification marks on affected equipment.
- If you installed the item yourself, or hired someone who didn’t pull the right permits, you could be held liable.
- Even minor electrical faults can lead to thousands in denied coverage.
But I Can Still Order These Online...?
Yes—and that’s the problem. Many uncertified products are sold through Amazon, AliExpress, and eBay, shipped from abroad and never inspected at the border. While it’s illegal to sell uncertified electrical products in Canada, enforcement is limited for online sellers outside the country.
So while you can buy them, you absolutely shouldn’t install them.
The Buchanan Difference: Certified, Safe, and Insurance-Friendly
At Buchanan Lighting, every product we carry is certified for use in Canada. You’ll never leave with a sketchy fixture or an insurance liability—we vet everything we sell so you can buy with confidence.
We work with electricians, property managers, and homeowners across Ottawa who value safety and peace of mind. Whether you're replacing a single bulb or lighting a whole building, you can count on us for quality that’s up to code.
Buy smart. Stay safe. Light right.
đź“Ť Visit us or call anytime for expert help.
Got a fixture you’re unsure about? Bring it in or send us a photo—we’ll let you know if it’s certified and safe to use.