What questions should I ask an electrician?
Electrical malfunctions or renovations isn’t something you can fix DIY as this can lead to serious problems. Hiring an electrician can be confusing; and knowing what to ask can be tough. So what should I ask an electrician?
You want someone that you can trust as when choosing an electrician safety is key. It can be one of the riskiest trades; so don’t settle for your neighbour that may claim he/she has done a few jobs here and there and can help you out.
Here are some questions that you may find helpful; when hiring your electrician.
Are you licensed and what is your licence number?
This can be an obvious question but important to ask; you wouldn’t go to an unqualified doctor so why would you want an unlicensed electrician. It is a legal requirement in Australia for all electricians who complete works at your house to have a license. You can check their licence by asking for their license number and checking it validity by going to your states trade register:
ACT | NSW | NT | QLD | SA | TAS | VIC | WA
Do you have insurance?
All electricians need public liability and accident and injury; this can be crucial in case something goes wrong whilst they’re at your property or business. It not only protects them; but protects your home and your family.
What type of electrical work do you specialise in?
This is a great question to ask; as often electricians will have a preferred skill. Some electricians prefer to specialise in total renovations; while others specialise in small repairs or fan installations.
What is your experience in electrical services and/or how many years have you been an electrician?
This can help you understand or solidify your decision on whether or not you wish to hire them. Experience is everything; especially if it is a large scale renovation or a total rewiring of a house. The best place to start is to ask the electrician for examples of previous works. In addition; look up their licence to see when she/he became a licensed electrician (see links provided in question 1).
Is it better to quote by job or would it be better as an hourly rate (‘do and charge’)?
Funnily enough some jobs are better quoted whilst other jobs are better under an hourly rate and it pays to ask! It really depends on the job and what is involved. This should be decided before he/she starts the job; as either one can be more or less cost effective.
Who will carry out the work?
Depending on the size of the business; it might not be the person who was on the phone. It is important to know who will be attending the job so you can make an informed decision.
How long will the job take to complete?
An important question to ask an electrician; especially if you are expecting a specific time period. The number one rule with any job; expect it will take longer than you predict.
Do you give a debrief on what you have undertaken?
This is important in understanding what electrical works have been completed and can be a nice way of inspecting what they have done without judgement; whilst helping you feel at ease that the work has been done correctly.
What products do you use and are they quality?
As electrical materials can be risky; it is important that he/she installs quality electrical materials and lighting. More recently in the market electricians have seen cheaper and more inferior products come to the market; don’t get caught out (especially with switch boards and wiring). If it sounds cheap; it is cheap.
If something goes wrong; will you fix it?
Generally electricians usually cover if something that has been installed or if something doesn’t work within a reasonable time period after installation. But don’t be afraid to ask the question beforehand.
It might take a few recommendations or a few phone calls to compare; but asking an electrician first can save time, money and hassle.
If you are looking for an electrician in Sydney or surrounds contact Inner Loop Electrical today.