Whether you are building a new home, adding an extension or addition, doing some renovations, or even just doing some minor repairs, chances are that you will need an electrician to handle anything to do with wiring or electricity.  Don’t think that you can save a buck and do it yourself as it is illegal for a non-licensed person to do any kind of electrical work, no matter how simple.  If you do need an electrician, here are our tips to help you choose an electrical contractor.

When it comes to electrical work it is vital that you choose someone that is correctly licensed.  Check that your electrician is fully licensed – they should be prompt in showing you the documentation.  For further peace of mind, choose an electrician that is registered with an association such as NECA, ECA, or ESAA.

Due to the specialised nature of the work, hiring an electrician can sometimes be expensive.  Before choosing your electrical contractor, it is a good idea to check out how much they will charge and what you get for your money. Find out if they charge by the hour or if the quote is for the entire job.  The quote should cover the costs of labour, parts and materials. Always make sure that you obtain an accurate written quote to help minimise the chance of a budget blowout.

It is important that you are comfortable with your electrician and that you can rely on them. One way to help you choose your electrician is to ask for recommendations from friends, family, colleagues and so forth.  The electrician should also be happy to provide you with a list of references.  They may have had work done and be able to give you advice on who to choose, or who to avoid. Choose an electrical contractor who is polite, gives quotes within a specified timeframe, turns up to appointments as promptly as possible or notifies you when this is not possible, and is dressed in an easily identifiable uniform.

If the worst should happen, the electrician should provide a 24/7 emergency electrician service so that serious problems can be fixed straight away, or at least made safe (such as broken hot water, exposed live wires, wires that have accidentally been cut etc).