Every new building, from commercial ventures to new homes, needs a solid electrical construction plan at its core. The professionals you hire begin with electrical blueprints, adding in the plans for wiring, construction, and testing of electrical components. With all the costs related to new construction, you might be considering using a general handyman or builder to take care of your new electrical needs. This can end up costing you more in the end for many reasons, from inefficient wiring plans to outright unsafe electrical systems. Electrical construction professionals have specialized training, and will make sure you get the quality job you need that lasts. When you’re ready to look for a licensed electrician, keep these ideas in mind to help you decide:
The Construction Job
Each licensed electrician is something of a specialist, even if he is proficient with many types of projects. Once you have decided exactly what type of job you need done, look for an electrical professional who specializes in jobs similar to the one you need done. Speak with others in your community who have had similar projects done, and ask for recommendations. Research local companies and ask them for examples of their work that you can look at. Knowing a licensed electrician is experienced with electrical construction jobs similar to yours is the base on which you’ll build a decision on who to choose.
Proficiency
The two most important aspects of an electrical construction job are safety and reliability. Electricians who work on your project must be proficient in these areas, and be trained and recognize the standards of quality and safety. Look for a licensed contractor who:
- Is familiar with the National Electric Code (NEC), which is the recognized safety standard adopted by the majority of local and state building inspection authorities.
- Is licensed, along with all of his employees, in the jurisdiction where your proposed project is to be located. The contractor should be aware that the project will be inspected by authorities in the project’s jurisdiction, who will expect all rules and guidelines laid down by the NEC to be followed.
- Uses quality materials, planning for his project to last for a long period of time.
- Has been adequately trained, and has trained his employees, to ensure a competent and experienced work force to do your work.
Reputation and Reliability
The contractors you consider for your project can have all the experience and knowledge in the world, but if they’re not reliable, honest, and have good business sense, they’ll do you more harm than good. Local contractors may be the best choice, as they’ve made a financial and emotional commitment to your neighborhood. Find business or homeowners in your area who have used this electrical contractor and ask about their experiences. When narrowing down your choices, ask electricians for references and speak with each of them for information about pros and cons for each candidate.
Questions to Ask Licensed Electricians
Make an appointment to interview each prospective electrician before signing any contracts. The information you find out may sway you toward one choice or the other. Find out about each one’s insurance and warranty policy, and ask for it in writing. Check to make sure the electrician will guarantee that all work will be up to code. What is their policy on redoing work that doesn’t live up to quality standards? Can you have a written estimate and a copy of the electrician’s insurance certificate? A good contractor with a solid reputation to uphold will be happy to answer all these questions and provide you with the requested documentation.
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