Tips on finding the right electrical contractor for your needs:
- The single most important thing to look for when hiring a contractor for electrical work is to see that the contractor is licensed for the work to be performed. Ask to see proof of licensing; no legitimate contractor will be offended by this. A legitimate electrician has worked very hard and long to achieve his or her license, they will have no more objection to showing their electrical license than to show their drivers license.
- By provincial law, all electrical companies must have a Master Electrician on staff to supervise all electrical work being done, ask for this individuals information. The same applies as above, this person has every right to be proud of his or her achievement, they will not object to showing their license and besides IT IS THE LAW.
- Go over exactly what is to be done, how much it will cost and how long will the work take. Always keep in mind that things do not always go as planned, problems may arise that could not be foreseen. For example, you need to add receptacles to an area, it seems fairly straightforward, you get a quote and the work begins but there is an obstruction of some type (pipes, heat vents or something similar), which prevents the installation from happening exactly as planned. No one could see what was in the wall so some alteration may be required to the original plan. This is not the end of the world and can usually be taken care of by simply talking to your contractor and sorting it out. Just be aware of the fact that you might run into small problems.
- Get your quote in writing and keep a signed copy for your own records
- Ensure that the method of payment and payment schedule is noted on the contract. Payment options vary with different companies. Most companies will ask for a deposit, which should not exceed 25% of the total price with the balance to be paid on completion. Regardless of the amount agreed upon as a deposit, get a receipt. Again, no reputable company will have any argument to this. It makes it easier on everyone involved if this procedure is followed. There are no misunderstandings; everyone knows what the deal is, therefore, everything goes smoothly.
- MAKE SURE THAT ALL ELECTRICAL WORK IS INSPECTED AND ASK FOR A COPY OF THE CERTIFICATE OF INSPECTION. IT IS YOUR GUARANTEE THAT THE WORK WAS DONE PROPERLY AND LEGALLY. IT IS ALSO THE LAW
- IF ANY CONTRACTOR TRIES TO TELL YOU THAT AN INSPECTION IS NOT NECESSARY IT SHOULD IMMEDIATELY RAISE A RED FLAG THAT SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT. EVERY ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION REQUIRES AN INSPECTION. IT IS THE LAW.
- Electrical Inspection is the law and it is the way contractors are held accountable for their work. If something should ever go wrong and the job was not inspected, you are on your own with no way to prove who did what. It is also the contractor’s way of protecting themselves because the inspection is done to make sure that the work they have done is correct and safe so no legitimate contractor will not get their work inspected.
- Safety is everybody’s business. Your contractor should make sure that there are no exposed wires that have power going to them and at the end of the day should do their best to seal off any areas that may be dangerous before leaving the site. If you have young children in the house they should be warned to stay out of the work areas.
- The best way to avoid problems in any dealings with contractors of any type is to simply ask questions. Most contractors, regardless of the type of work they do, are hardworking honest people trying to make a reasonable living just like everybody else. If there is something you do not understand how or why something has to be done, just ask the question.
