If you need any type of work done around your home, you need to ensure the work is done properly and safely. Selecting a professional can be challenging if you aren’t sure what to look for.
While this is true, some tips can help you with this important decision. Keep reading to learn what to look for when it is time to hire an electrician.
Licensing and Insurance
It is essential that you only hire a licensed and insured electrician to work in your home. Getting a license to provide this work requires the person to pass a series of exams. To keep the license, the electrician should invest in electrical continuing education courses to ensure they understand the latest updates to the electrical code and safety considerations.
These courses are also necessary for an electrician to renew their license, which is necessary to continue providing services in the area.
Along with licensing, you should ensure the electrician you hire has proper insurance coverage. Request a copy of the electrician’s insurance policies and ensure they have not expired.
Qualifications and Experience
Be sure to check the qualifications of the electrician you are thinking about hiring. As mentioned above, you also need to verify their license before you make a final decision. In most cases, you can find the information by looking at the electrician’s website or if you ask them directly.
However, if you can’t find what you need, request the name, company’s name, and license number. You can use the information you find to confirm the electrician’s qualifications through the state’s labor department.
Ask Who Will be Doing the Work
If you plan to hire an electrician through an electrical contractor, instead of working with an independent contractor, make sure you find out who will be assigned to the project.
Some companies rely on subcontractors. If that’s the case, these individuals may not be fully covered by insurance.
Value for Your Money
It is suggested that you request a minimum of three quotes from different electricians. The truth is, the more quotes you get, the better.
Be sure you carefully communicate the work you need to be done, the specific fittings, and the types of materials you want to be used. Request that the electrician provides you with a quote that breaks down the prices. This will help make it easier to determine which company offers the most value for the money.
Look for Reviews and Request Recommendations
One of the best ways to find qualified electricians for your project is to ask around. Word of mouth is still one of the best forms of advertising. Take time to ask people you know, along with home improvement professionals and contractors, for their electrician recommendations. It’s also a good idea to look online for reviews, which will provide you with an unbiased assessment of the electrician you are considering.
Communication and Attitude
No one wants to deal with a professional who has a bad attitude or does not take pride in their work.
One thing to pay attention to is if the electrician shows up on time to provide your quote. If they are running late, did they let you know with a call or text? Does the electrician communicate with you and let you know what is going on.
It’s important to find someone with good communication skills, so you do not have to deal with any miscommunications during the project. A professional attitude and appearance are typically reflected in the work that the electrician does.
Warranty Offerings
Does the electrician offer a warranty or guarantee for the work they do? This provides you with another level of protection in case of faulty installation or other issues. Some warranties provide coverage for up to five years after the project is done, but it is important to ask the electrician for the specifics before hiring them for the job.
Finding the Right Electrician for the Job
There are more than a few factors to consider when it comes to finding the right electrician for your job and needs. It is a good idea to keep the information here in mind, which will help ensure you find an electrician who can handle the work you need to be done safely and efficiently.
If you hire an electrician you find online; you may wind up with subpar work or other issues that result in an electrical shock or fire down the road. All this can be avoided by taking the time to vet the electrician you plan to hire and ensuring that they can handle the work you need. Use the tips above to minimize issues and find the right person for the job. It will pay off in the long run and protect your home and family.