411homerepair.com

How to Select the Right Electrical Contractor

by Guest Post on Mar 14, 2013

Selecting the right electrical contractor isn't as easy as picking someone out of the Yellow Pages or even Yelp. The ramifications of hiring the wrong contractor can be financially disastrous and even dangerous.

First and foremost, it's imperative to know if the contractor you're considering hiring, is licensed, bonded, and has adequate general liability and workers compensation insurance.

Then, you need to determine if they are experienced in the type of work you need to be performed and if they are generally considered good, honest, and reputable.

The best place to start answering some of these questions is at the Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors and/or the Division of Consumer Affairs (basically the Authority having Jurisdiction), and of course, the Better Business Bureau. Nutshell, check out the local/state and national construction building organizations for more information.

Now let's pretend for a moment that you have an electrical job you need to be done.

Not an emergency -- perhaps it's just fixing a light that stopped working.

What would you do?

Would you call a few contractors and get multiple bids? You can, but I wouldn't necessarily suggest it.

Most people think that they should get multiple bids for every job. This isn't the case, and in actuality, putting to bid every little job may backfire.

Good contractors are few and far in between, and asking for multiple bids for a small job will only alienate them the next time around. Try looking at this from their point of view. Their time is worth probably about $100/ hr, and yet, he or she makes the time to come to your residence and provide you with a free estimate for whatever work you may need.

Typically, a good contractor will try to provide you with an ""extra-competitive"" bid, especially the first time around, just to make you a customer.

But how can you tell if the first contractor walking into your house is a good contractor? Some simple rules may apply here, but remember there also are exceptions to every rule.

A good contractor will typically look the part. In other words, if he or she looks messy and disorganized, then it's probably indicative of the type of work he or she does. Someone who takes pride in their work usually takes pride in their appearance. Some contractors may argue this point, but remember we're talking generalities here and not the exceptions. He or she should have some type of company identification (even a shirt with a logo would do).

A good contractor will have company cards with their company name and/or their name, telephone, and license # on it.

A good contractor will respond to your calls quickly and provide you with a free estimate (for most jobs) the same day or within a reasonable amount of time and will take the time to explain what they will do and how they will do it.

A good contractor will never offer to do the job without taking out permits and may even walk away from a job if the homeowner insists on not taking them. Remember, permits are additional insurance for the homeowner guaranteeing (through inspection) that the job was performed safely and correctly.

A good contractor will never cut corners and do something unsafe to accommodate your budget. They will, instead, offer suggestions on how to modify your plans to meet both their code and safety requirements and your budget. If these two cannot meet, then they will wish you good luck and walk away from the job.

A good contractor will be happy to provide you with copies of their insurance certificates and references when asked. Try not asking for them unless it's a decent size job.

 

Remember, if a plumber messes up, you'll have a flood, if an electrical contractor messes up you'll have a fire or perhaps even worse." Simon is the author of this article.

More tips and thoughts on what to know before hiring someone to do home repairs and improvements from 411homerepair.com.

 

Latest Articles

Innovative Materials in Modern Rainscreen Systems

In today's world of architectural advancements, the materials we use to protect and adorn our structures have evolved dramatically. Within this...

on Aug 25, 2023

Benefits of Aluminum Windows for Homeowners

Aluminum windows have emerged as a popular choice among Australian homeowners, offering a compelling combination of energy efficiency and modern...

on Aug 10, 2023

Investment Tactics for Premium Condominiums

Singapore continues to be a magnet for property investments, with its robust economy, political stability, and appealing real estate market acting...

on Aug 3, 2023

10 Essential Questions to Ask During a Sunroom and Lanai Consultation

When considering the addition of a sunroom or lanai to your home, a consultation with a professional lanai contractor is crucial. This initial...

on Jul 24, 2023

Creating Beautiful and Low-Maintenance Coastal Landscapes in Tropical Areas

Living on the coast in tropical areas offers homeowners the opportunity to enjoy stunning ocean views and a unique coastal lifestyle. To make the...

on Jul 7, 2023

Sponsored Articles

Actions

More DIY Articles

Mistakes too Many Make when Hiring Plumbers

Nowadays, it is so much easier to find and hire a plumber than it used to be some time ago because of the fact that the internet easily helps us to...

Plumbing / Basements

Creating Beautiful and Low-Maintenance Coastal Landscapes in Tropical Areas

Living on the coast in tropical areas offers homeowners the opportunity to enjoy stunning ocean views and a unique coastal lifestyle. To make the...

Garden / Landscaping / Patio

Simple Home Tips for Repairing Your Garage Door

Garage doors are prone to malfunctions now and then due to their frequent usage and perpetual exposure to the elements. They compose of different...

Doors / Garages

Top Home Remodeling Ideas

Looking for new projects? Check out these ideas on improving your home including some budget-friendly tips. Have you thought about changing the...

Improvements / Remodeling

Quick Tips to Sell Your Home Faster

Selling a house is never easy. Some people imagine that you simply put the house up on the market and it's sold the next day. Well, unfortunately,...

Real Estate / Finance

Contact Us | Submit Article | 411homerepair © 2023