It's not very hard to find stories of unprofessional contractors these days, tales full of extended overtime, faulty installations, workers who showed up late or didn't show up at all. Consumers sometimes think, mistakenly, that anybody who says they can do electrical work can actually do high-quality electrical work. This mistake often leads to poor choices in hiring an electrical contractor, and if a consumer makes an educated choice from day one, he is much less likely to have issues with the finished job or the work itself.
So how does a consumer find the right electrician or electrical contractor? The answer is simple: research.
First, let's look at just what an electrical contractor or electrician does. We all know that they run or repair wiring through our houses, install new overhead lighting, and fix faulty fuse boxes. However, there is much more to being a good electrical professional than basic job knowledge.
An electrician is different than an electrical contractor. An electrician has become certified and licensed, but most often works alone. These people are excellent for smaller jobs, such as replacing a broken light switch, or installing a new light fixture over the dining room table. There are individual electricians who will gladly take on large jobs, but you, as the consumer, must ask yourself if you're willing to pay for the extra time. A large job that a team could finish in a week might take a single electrician a month.
If you make the choice to hire an electrician, you must be absolutely certain that he is licensed and insured. His license proves that he has taken all the steps to become a professional, and shows that he is certified by a governing agency (usually a city or county) to perform electrical work. Insurance is equally important. If an electrician becomes injured while working in your home, even if the accident was his own fault, you could end up being sued. Protect your interests, and ask for insurance.
An electrical contractor usually works on larger jobs. If you're adding a wing to your house, installing dramatic outdoor lighting, or rewiring an aged electrical system throughout your home, you'll most likely be hiring an electrical contractor.
These professionals usually run a small team of electricians. By assuming the role of contractor, they are assuming all the responsibility for the job. Because of this, a reputable contractor will be very selective when choosing his team. After all, his name and reputation are riding on their work.
Licensing and insurance, including worker's compensation insurance, are absolute musts for electrical contractors. A website showcasing local contractors can provide you with this information, although it's a good idea to ask for it in writing just to be sure. Read the online reviews from former clients. Ask how long the contractor has worked with his team, and get both a time and cost estimate.
These simple steps can save you from shoddy electrical work, which is not only a hassle, but can destroy your home. Take the time to research, and you'll be rewarded with peace of mind.
Posted by: TrustedPros