At some point, homeowners, business owners and general contractors all need a quality electrician. And while there are a number of great options to choose from in our area, there are a few key points you’ll want to keep in mind when choosing the best man or woman for the job.
Licensed and Insured
One of the most important things to consider is if your electrician is licensed, insured and bonded before they come out to a job. This will protect you from any unnecessary costs, should something go wrong in the process, and will ensure the electrician has the proper training to perform safe and effective work.
A license is your guarantee that the contractor you’re hiring has done the necessary courses and practical work in order to complete a job correctly and safely. Always be sure to check if the license is current and that it covers the type of work you need completed.
A Good Value
The cheapest deal may not be the best deal in this situation. Check with three or four electricians to get full, itemized quotes for the job you’d like to have done. Check on whether there’s a call-out charge, and if materials are included in the quote. Be sure to also consider that price isn’t necessarily the only factor in this scenario. Spend time finding an electrician or electrical company that guarantees their work and will correct any work that may not meet standards.
Industry Experience
One size fits all does not apply when it comes to electricians. Some may have additional qualifications or special training in a certain area of electrical work, while some may even have specific accreditations. Look at how long an electrician has been in the business, and possibly discuss any previous projects.
Recommendations
Chances are, you may have a friend or relative who has worked with an electrician in the past who can provide a good name. If not, turn to the internet to look at local business directories or online reviews to get an idea of their work. Some electricians may also be able to provide references from previous satisfied customers. A good reputation often has a direct correlation to the quality of work you can expect.
Communication
Completing a project that involves electrical work can be stressful, and nobody wants to work with a tradesman who displays a bad attitude or who doesn’t communicate effectively. Take note of the person’s professionalism and timeliness in making a decision. You don’t want to end up with any unexpected issues due to miscommunication.
