The 2026 electrical code: what changes for homeowners

In force, with a transition

The 2026 edition of Chapter V, Electricity, of Québec’s Construction Code has been in force since March 26, 2026. It adopts the Canadian Electrical Code, amended for Québec. According to the CMEQ, work begun before October 17, 2027 may still follow the 2018 edition: the extension was confirmed on August 26, 2026.

What changes in a house

• A neutral at every switch: every switch location controlling a fixed light fixture must have a neutral conductor. Electronic dimmers, occupancy sensors and smart switches need it, and they can be added later without rewiring.
• Clarified arc-fault rules: most outlet circuits in a dwelling are arc-fault protected, with no more than 10 outlets per circuit. An attached garage follows this rule; for a detached garage, the RBQ recommends it. When outlets are added to an existing circuit, an arc-fault outlet installed as the first added outlet is enough.
• Outlets per circuit: the general 12-outlet limit gives way to an approach based on the actual load; in a dwelling, arc-fault protected circuits remain limited to 10 outlets.
• GFCI outdoors: all ordinary outdoor outlets are protected by a Class A GFCI, block heaters included; only those 2.5 m or more above the ground are exempt.
• Bathrooms: the thermostat can be within 1 m of the tub or shower if it is protected by a Class A GFCI or supplied by Class 2 extra-low voltage, and the sink no longer applies to the control.
• Flood-risk areas: the sump pump outlet must be above the flood level or approved for immersion.

EV chargers

• Since 2018, a new house with a garage, carport or parking space must be ready for a charger: a cable or conduit from the panel to an outlet box. The 2026 Code specifies the capacity, level 2 charging of at least 7.68 kW at 240 V, and extends it to new apartment buildings: every space except visitor spaces.
• The load calculation counts the charger at 100%, unless an electric vehicle energy management system is used. In a new house, it counts it even if it isn’t installed yet.
• A charger outlet carries a label stating its purpose; at 120 V outdoors and within 2.5 m of the ground, it is protected by a Class A GFCI.

What it means for you

The Code applies to work: your house generally doesn’t have to be redone, but what is added or modified follows the edition that covers your project. At LTE Électrique, we tell you in the quote what the Code requires for your work, and we apply it.