If you are planning to renovate your home, then chances are you will need to bring in an electrician (especially if the job is a big one). David from Australian Professional Electrical Services shares a few tips on how to make sure you get a reliable one.
If you are looking for an electrical contractor, you want to make sure that you receive quality work at a fair price. However, if you are unsure what to look for, hiring a professional might prove to be a challenge. That is why there are several factors you want to pay attention to when hiring an electric contractor.
Ensure you get Value for your Money
It is always a good idea to ask at least three different electric contractors for a quote. You want to make sure that you communicate what materials and fittings you want to use and what the work entails. Clear communication is vital if you want to receive a quality quote. Make sure that you obtain a clear quote from your prospective electric contractors. By getting a breakdown of the costs, it is easier to compare quotes between providers. Remember that while it certainly matters, price must never be the sole determining factor.
License and Insurance
You want a licensed electric contractor. This means that your prospective hire has the practical work and necessary courses to perform the job safely and correctly. While it may be strange at first, you want to ask to see a license as well. It is easier than ever to go online and check out a license if you want to make sure. You also want to make sure that your prospective electric contractor has all the necessary insurances. Again, make sure that these are not expired either.
Qualifications and Experience
Just because two contractors charge the same, that does not mean they provide the same work. Some have many more years of experience or extra qualifications in different areas of electrical work. You want to make sure that you receive the highest standard when it comes to electrical safety and workmanship. This is why price cannot be the sole determining factor when hiring an electrical contractor, because sometimes you get what you pay for.
Ask about Recommendations
Advertisements are one thing, but a recommendation from someone that you trust should count for much more. If someone you know has had a positive experience with an electric contractor before, that is a good endorsement. They can tell you more about the workmanship and the level of service to expect. If no one you know has experience hiring electric contractors, you can always ask the potential hire if they have any references.
A Good Attitude and Clear Communication
No one is interested in working with an electric contractor that has sloppy workmanship or a bad attitude. Anyone can be held up in traffic or at another job, but do they consider your time and let you know they are going to be delayed? Do they communicate the important factors of your project? You want to avoid miscommunications during the project, so it is important that both you and your electric contractor understand one another. A professional attitude and appearance often shows in the quality of the workmanship.
If you take all of these points in mind, you are going to find the best possible electric contractor for your next project. It may take a bit longer to narrow down your options, but at least you know you are making the right choice.