| An electrician is someone who specializes in the wiring | | | | An electrician should be licensed and carry valid |
| and repair of electrical mechanisms. Most people will | | | | insurance. Verify that both are active and in good |
| rarely need the services of an electrician, but when it | | | | standing before starting a job. Damage done can be |
| is necessary choosing the right one is very important. | | | | severe with improper wiring so this is very important. |
| For home use, electricians are typically needed to | | | | If an electrician can not provide you with both, do |
| re-wire or repair existing systems. They are also | | | | not hire them. There is too much at stake. Get |
| needed for construction, including additions and | | | | copies of their license and insurance certificate. |
| remodels, to place the electrical outlets and lighting. | | | | Ask the electrician about their experience level. An |
| Before deciding on an electrician, determine the | | | | electrical company that has been in business for a |
| scope of work. Be as detailed as possible so you can | | | | long time will likely be a better choice than one that is |
| determine the needs for the project. Minor repair | | | | just starting out. New businesses may offer price |
| work can often be completed by an electrician who | | | | reductions to help them establish a client list and |
| is less expensive and may not have a lot of | | | | references. If opting for a new business, check that |
| experience. However, for major repairs, remodels, | | | | the electrician who is working on the job has |
| and new construction, it is imperative to get a skilled | | | | significant experience with the type of work required. |
| tradesman. Improper wiring can be very dangerous | | | | Request references and check them. Electricians who |
| and can lead to fires, putting everyone at risk. | | | | have happy customers will do a good job for you. |
| Get recommendations for an electrician before hiring | | | | Choose the electrician who has the best combination |
| one. Choose a few to get estimates on your project | | | | of price and experience, and with whom you felt |
| and compare all of them. Talk with each person to | | | | most comfortable. Get the project specifications in |
| evaluate their experience and expertise. Have them | | | | writing so you have a detailed accounting of the job, |
| walk through your project with you so you can | | | | the costs, and time for completion. This will help |
| understand what needs to be done, how it will be | | | | protect you if anything goes wrong. |
| accomplished, how long it will take and the cost. | | | | |