Electrical Installation Contractors

Working with a professional electrician

Because of the nature of an electrician´s work, there are considerations to keep in mind that you might not need to deal with when working with other building specialties.

Electrical contractors are more heavily regulated by building codes than other contractors and may need permits if the project is large or requires new circuitry. Once the job is completed, a city or county inspector examines the work to make sure it complies with all codes. This is your guarantee that the work is complete and correct.

Another difference is in purchasing fixtures. Electricians may provisionally install materials you purchase. They will not accept any responsibility for missing or incorrect parts, and if you have to go out to purchase missing pieces, your electrician may continue to charge while he waits. If he purchases materials, he assumes the responsibility as well as covering warranty and replacement.

When installing new circuit boxes or making other major changes, your electrical contractor may cut holes in the wall, but leave repairs to your carpenter or general contractor. Make sure you understand the scope of work and the extent of your electrician´s responsibilities.

Before choosing the electrical contractor, get several estimates and make sure you obtain the following:

• Project references and length of experience as well as checking with the Better Business Bureau for unresolved consumer complaints
• Copies of electrician´s license, liability insurance, worker’s comp insurance, and bonding. Call the appropriate agency or organization to verify.
• Written guarantees on work

A licensed electrical contractor averages between $45 and $70 an hour, depending on region. Payments, specified in the contract, may be made upon completion or at agreed milestones over the course of a larger project. However, don´t make the last payment until your contractor provides a waiver stating that all vendors and workers have been paid.