Getting a qualified, and experienced electrician is not easy. Especially now that we have so many unqualified individuals whose only interest is to fleece unsuspecting clients. Unfortunately, differentiating legitimate service providers from imposters is not easy either. You would have to be very careful and employ several tactics to get a reliable specialist. The ten questions listed below would be a good place to start.

Do they have a license?

One of the things that ascertains an electrician’s qualification is their license. This document is mandatory in most states and is usually issued by relevant authorities after vetting the technicians. Depending on their level of qualification, an electrician could be issued with either of the two basic levels of licensure. However, to be a master electrician, you ought to have at least two years of professional experience. You will have the authority to do both design and installation.

What is their specialty?

Just like most professions, electrical experts are very diverse. There are those who specialize in new construction while others will focus on remodelling. Make sure you confirm with the service provider to avoid hiring the wrong expert.

What is their level of training and experience?

Apart from just being qualified, the electrician must have enough training and experience for the job at hand. Should the project require specific expertise like installing solar equipment, home automation system, or voice/data cabling, the electrical specialist should be able to get it done.

Is he/she insured?

Find out the type of insurance policy cover taken by the service provider and what it covers. The last thing you need is taking responsibility for mistakes done by the technicians while at work.

Ask for references

References for previous projects related to yours will help you gain first-hand information and understanding of how the electrician works. By talking to the clients, and seeing the job done, you will know exactly what to expect from the contractor.

What does the estimate cover?

A good electrician should provide you with a free quotation to help with budgeting. However, you should inquire on what is covered in the estimate. Everything should be outlined clearly to avoid any misunderstandings in future.

Ask to see a work in progress

If the technician has an ongoing project, ask them if you could visit the site and watch how the work is being done. You will be able to learn a thing or two about their conduct at work and if it works to your advantage.

Is a permit necessary? If yes, who will get it for you?

A permit is always meant to ensure that the project meets a given set of standards and regulations. It is mandatory for an electrician to get one before they start working.

What does the warranty cover and for how long?

If you want to know just how good a technician is, check the longevity of their warranties and what they cover. Electricians who are confident with their work will assume more responsibility for their work and for extended periods.

Who will do the work?

At the end of the day, get to know the person who will be working on your project. Will it be the person addressing all your concerns? Or are they going to contract another company? In case they go for the latter, you must be informed before-hand and given a complete breakdown of the rates and any other binding issues.

For those in urgent need of a professional electrician within Centurion and its environs, you can save yourself the stress of a rigorous vetting process and come straight to our offices. We are a team of qualified and experienced electrical experts who are skilled in all manner of wiring installations and repairs. We have a reputation for getting the job done well and on schedule. Our contact lines are open 24 hours a day. Give us a call today on 087 550 2591.