Don’t Risk Your Family’s Safety
Are you remodeling your home, building a new house, or simply trying to solve an electrical problem? If so, it is time to hire a skilled, licensed electrician.
Hiring a Licensed Electrician Can Save Your Life
Doing electrical work is risky business. In addition to the potential danger of shock, faulty electrical work can result in costly damage and even fire. Even if you’re an enthusiastic do-it-yourself kind of guy or gal, electrical wiring is a task that must be done right. Protect your home and your family by hiring a professional.
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How to Hire a Professional Electrician
Choose your electrician carefully. Don’t trust your family’s safety to an electrician who isn’t qualified, licensed and experienced. Consider the following factors in making your decision.
License
Licensed electricians have completed the necessary courses and hands-on training to do electrical work correctly and safely. They also know local laws and current building-code requirements for your area.
Insurance
Electricians should hold the appropriate bonding and insurance, including general liability and worker’s compensation coverage. An electrician working on a typical residential remodeling job, for example, should carry a minimum of $500,000 in liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage for himself and his crew.
Ask to see copies of the policies and make sure they are current, not expired. If you have any concerns, contact the electrician’s insurance company to request they verify the electrician’s license.
Electrician Specialties
As in most fields, electricians can have specialties. Some electrical contractors focus on new construction, some specialize in commercial work and some handle commercial and residential repairs, like fixing a faulty outlet. Electricians who specialize in remodeling know how to wire existing homes, which can involve snaking wires through finished walls and assessing the capacity of existing circuits to handle increased power demands. Be sure you hire an electrician who is a fit for your project.
Quotes
For any large electrical project, get estimates from at least two electrical contractors. Ask each electrician to provide a price breakdown (line-item bid), so you can compare apples to apples.
Professionalism
When you meet with electricians to get quotes, have the following questions in mind:
- Did they arrive on time for the appointment?
- Do they listen to you when you speak and understand what you need?
- Do they seem knowledgeable?
- What is their timeframe for getting the work done?
- Will they be doing the work themselves or having a sub-contractor do the job?
- Can they provide you with the names and phone numbers of at least three customers whom you could call for a recommendation?
Warranty
Professional electricians and electrical contractors stand behind their work. Most offer a warranty on their labor and any parts or equipment they install.
Electrical Permits
A licensed electrician can determine whether your work requires pulling a permit from the local building department. If the work is significant, such as replacing or rewiring your main electrical equipment, you’ll need a permit. Typically, the cost of the permit, which includes an inspection when the work is complete, will be included in your electrician’s bill, but it’s worth checking when you get estimates.
Need to Hire a Licensed Charlottesville Electrician?
Get a FREE Quote from Fitch Services. Whether you have a small electrical project like installing a ceiling fan or a major job like rewiring an old home, you’ll want to be sure all work is done correctly and up to code.
In business since 1983, Fitch Services employs highly trained, licensed and experienced Charlottesville electricians. Our company serves Albemarle and the surrounding counties of Palmyra, Fluvanna and Greene. Founded by John Fitch, Master Electrician, the Fitch team guarantees quality work and a hassle-free experience.
We provide free estimates and second opinions on all electrical work.