When it comes to electrical work in the home, cutting corners is never an option. Faulty wiring isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a fire risk waiting to happen. That’s why hiring a qualified electrician is crucial for any electrical project, big or small.
In this guide, I’ll lay out everything you need to know about hiring an electrician to help you optimize the safety and quality of your next electrical job.
Electrician Qualifications
When seeking an electrician, you should know about the different levels of expertise and certification. While all licensed electricians have a baseline of competence, there are distinctions in qualifications that can affect the scope of work they’re allowed to perform.
Master Electrician
A master electrician represents the highest level of expertise in the field. With at least two years of experience and qualifications to plan, design, install, and maintain electrical systems, these professionals have passed a standardized test and have comprehensive knowledge of the National Electrical Code and state-specific changes.
Journeyman Electrician
While not as experienced as master electricians, journeyman electricians are still highly skilled professionals. They’re licensed by the state in which they work, may work under a master electrician, and can install wiring and equipment but can’t design systems.
Apprentice
Apprentices are electricians-in-training who work under the supervision of licensed electricians. While they can help with various tasks, they should not be working independently on electrical projects in a home.
Importance of Proper Licensing and Insurance
When bringing in an electrician, you should always verify proper licensing and insurance. This step is crucial for several reasons:
- It ensures the electrician has met state-mandated training and experience requirements
- Proper insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or property damage
- Licensed work is more likely to pass inspections and meet local building codes
You should ask to see a copy of the electrician’s current state license and proof of insurance before hiring. The insurance usually includes at least $500,000 in liability and workers’ compensation for the electrician and their crew.
Finding the Right Electrician for Your Project
Electricians often specialize in specific types of work, so finding the right match for a project is essential.
When looking for an electrician, start by asking general contractors for recommendations. You can also reach out to local home builders associations or electrical supply houses for referrals. Be sure to specify the type of work needed to ensure a proper match. For remodeling projects, look for electricians experienced in working with existing homes and additions.
Once you have potential candidates, interview them. Request and verify references, ask to see examples of previous work similar to your project, and discuss the specific needs of the job to ensure the electrician has relevant experience.
Evaluating Work Quality
While it takes a trained eye to spot all potential issues with electrical work, there are some telltale signs of quality that you can look for, as we’ll delve into below.
Neatness and Organization
A neat installation signals careful, methodical work. Look for an orderly arrangement of wires (especially near the service panel), cables running in a tidy, organized manner, and properly aligned and flush-mounted switch and outlet cover plates.
Attention to Detail
Quality electricians pay close attention to even the smallest details—utility boxes set squarely against studs and at the proper depth in the wall, consistent and proper labeling of circuits, and clean installations without exposed wiring or rough edges.
Code Compliance
While you may not be familiar with electrical codes, you can ask the electrician to explain how their work meets local code requirements and ensure that you have all necessary permits before work begins and that the electrician coordinates inspections with local building authorities.
Working with an Electrician
Your project’s success depends on effective collaboration with your electrician. Make sure you’ve clearly communicated your project goals and worked out the project plans and timeframe and how it will affect your daily life, including providing access to the areas where technicians will need to work. Make sure you know who to contact for questions or concerns.
Choosing lighting fixtures is a key project milestone, so be prepared to make decisions at the right time. Be mindful of the lighting allowance in the project budget to avoid unexpected costs.
Cost Considerations
From my experience, the cost of electrical work can vary widely based on the project scope and regional factors. While it’s tempting to choose the lowest bid, you should consider the electrician’s experience and reputation, the quality of materials being used, and how thoroughly the estimate covers all project tasks and costs.
According to Angi, you can expect to pay at least $90 per hour for a master electrician and at least $60 per hour for a journeyman electrician. These rates can vary by region and project complexity.
Safety First: Why Professional Installation Matters
DIY electrical work may seem tempting, but the risks far outweigh any potential savings. Professional electricians are experts on electrical systems and safety procedures. They have the right tools and equipment, know local codes and rules, and can see and avoid possible dangers.
Poorly executed electrical work can cause fires, damage appliances and electronic devices, expose you to electric shocks, and lead to failed inspections and code violations. By hiring a qualified electrician, you help ensure that your job is done safely and correctly the first time.
What To Expect During the Hiring Process
Hiring an electrician involves several critical steps that help in making an informed decision. You should know what to expect during this process and how to navigate it effectively.
Most electricians will provide an initial consultation, often free of charge, during which they’ll assess the scope of work and identify potential challenges, establish your specific needs and preferences, and offer an initial cost estimate. This initial meeting gives you the chance to assess the electrician’s professionalism and responsiveness.
If you decide to move forward with a specific electrician, request a detailed written quote, which should include a breakdown of labor costs and material expenses, the timeline for the project completion, and terms of payment.
If you accept the quote and decide to hire the electrician, they should draft a formal contract that includes the work scope and schedule, labor and materials required, payment schedule, and any warranties or guarantees. You should read and understand all terms before signing‌ the contract.
Once work begins, regular check-ins with the electrician help ensure the project stays on track and promptly addresses any issues.
Project Follow-Up
After your project is complete, you may need to follow up with the electrician on any emerging issues or questions. Be sure to keep records of all work done, including receipts and warranties.
Building a good relationship with a reliable electrician can provide peace of mind and ensure quick support for future electrical needs.
Final Thoughts About Bringing in an Electrician
Bringing in an electrician is a crucial decision for any homeowner undertaking electrical work. By knowing what to look for, how to judge the work, and what to expect during the process, you can make smart choices that focus on safety and quality. Remember, electrical work is not an area where you can cut corners or attempt DIY solutions without proper training.
Investing in a professional, licensed electrician not only ensures your electrician does your job right but also provides peace of mind. With proper research and careful selection, you can find an electrician who will meet your needs, respect your budget, and, most importantly, keep your home safe and up to code for years to come.
