Most homeowners only have a basic understanding of electrical concepts. Of course, this is all that is needed for simple and occasional electrical repairs, such as changing a burst light bulb. However, for more complex repairs or for the installation of electronic equipment, it becomes necessary to hire a skilled professional to ensure not just the safety of your family, but also to prevent damage to your property.
Choosing a good electrician, however, is not as easy as it seems. There may be numerous companies in your area that offer assistance on electrical issues, and although some of these groups employ well-trained and licensed electricians, there are still those with no real training who offer services for a smaller fee. To help homeowners determine the skill and trustworthiness of a home electrician, here are five questions that you must ask before hiring one:
- Do you have a valid license?
Every electrician should have a valid working license as proof that he or she is qualified for this kind of work. An electrician who cannot show you a license does not have the necessary training and may only put you and your loved ones at risk. Make sure to ask this question before proceeding to any of the others listed below to save time. - What are your qualifications?
Having a license, of course, is not the only thing that can guarantee high quality of work and safety, so make sure that the electrician you hire is also certified by recognised institutions. Having qualifications and certifications not only shows that an electrician has undergone adequate training, it also means that he upholds a high standard for quality and professionalism. - How many years have you been in practice?
Training and qualifications are important, but there are many things that an electrician will only learn during practice. Having more experience also means that he is more confident and familiar with the ins and outs of electrical problems. Confidence is crucial because this means he is less likely to panic during unexpected events, thus ensuring safety for his clients. - What is the rate for your services?
Of course, it’s important to consider how much you will be spending for repairs. A good electrician can help you estimate costs by informing you of his hourly rates as well as the cost of materials that need to be purchased and other expenditures. If he cannot give you an exact quote, ask about the ceiling price instead. This is the maximum price for the project. - Do you offer a service warranty and what are your policies on this?
A trustworthy electrician will always stand by the quality of his work and provide service warranties for an acceptable time period. If he has no such offers, it may be a sign of substandard work.