What should you look for when hiring an electrician?

Whether you need a ceiling fan installed, a whole house generator, flickering lights inspected, or you are having your home remodeled, you need to know what to look for when it comes to a good electrician.

From new homes to older homes, at some point you will need electrical repairs. But because of the dangers involved, some of these repairs don’t make safe do-it-yourself projects.

Electricians do a fair amount of larger remodeling and new construction projects but also common residential projects including:

• Installing a light fixture or chandelier.
• Installing a ceiling fan.
• Adding an outlet.
• Generator installations
• Updating or replacing a circuit breaker.
• Installing or updating an electrical panel.
• Adding outdoor lighting from security lighting to decorative landscape lighting.

Where to begin:

1. Check Reviews.
   Most electrician have reviews available online. You can see our reviews on Angie’s List.
2. Speak with several professionals.
   Talk with each professional and ask them targeted questions about your project and situation.
3. Check your professional’s credentials.
   In almost all cases, anyone working on your home needs a valid license and insurance. If you’re unsure of a pro’s licensing, find another reputable professional.

Some basic tips to help prepare for your project 

• Be as thorough and detailed in describing your needs to your contractor. The more they know, the quicker the job will go.
• Before they arrive, prepare a precise list of items you want serviced. Electricians have budgeted their time for a service call. They don’t have time for additional requests once they are on site.
• Make sure the electrical panel box is accessible. You’ll pay for the time it takes to access it.
• Clear away fragile items, knickknacks and furniture from areas where you expect the them to work.
• If you have questions about the project, ask them before they start. Most are happy to run you through the problem and the process of fixing it.
• Ask about potential issues after the work is complete. During a service call a professional will spot any potential hazards.
• You’ll lose power to parts of your home while they work. Be prepared to pause anything you’re doing during the service call.

If your electrician arrives in one of these shirts, you’re probably in good hands! 😉