Whether you’re building a new house, making home improvements, or facing electrical issues, choosing the right electrician for the job is crucial. But a quick Google search for “electrician near me” can bring up an overwhelming number of results.

With so many electrical contractors out there, how do you know which one is the best fit for your home’s electrical system? Who will prioritize safety, reliability, and efficiency while offering quality customer service? Will you spend more time and money fixing mistakes made by an unqualified electrician?

To avoid these concerns, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect electrician for your home needs.

Project Scope: Understanding Your Electrical Needs

Not every electrician is equipped to handle all types of projects. You’ll want to choose a professional with experience in residential electrical services for your home. But before you start searching, it’s essential to identify the scope of your project.

Every home is different, every problem is unique. For example, are you looking to upgrade your home’s electrical wiring, install new lighting fixtures, or troubleshoot an electrical issue? Is your home a new build with a completely new electrical system? Or is it a charming older house with outdated electrical panels and wiring?

An electrician for a small project may not have the skills, equipment, or qualifications to handle larger ones, and vice versa. Knowing exactly what you need will narrow down your options to an electrician who is qualified to meet those specific needs.

Now, we understand that many homeowners don’t know what they need when it comes to electrical work. That’s okay!

A reliable and experienced electrician can help evaluate your electrical project and provide recommendations. Even having a vague idea of your problem and goals can help you start the conversation with prospective electricians.

Assessing the Scope of Electrical Work

When you’re not sure what kind of electrical services you need, here are some questions that can help you better define your project scope:

• What electrical issue are you experiencing?
• Are you looking for a new installation, repair, or upgrade?
• Is the problem recent or ongoing?
• Are there any specific safety concerns?
• Do you need the work done urgently or is it something that can wait?
• Do you have any electrical preferences or requirements (energy-efficient solutions, smart home integration, etc.)?

Once you have a clear understanding of your project scope, you can start looking for qualified electricians who specialize in the type of work you need.

Consider Your Goals

Simply knowing you want to fix that buzzing sound or stop the breakers from flipping, is a good start. There are certainly electrical warning signs that may be indicating a problem. Or maybe you’re looking to install new outdoor lighting or integrate smart features into your home to save money on utility costs.

Thinking about your long-term goals for your home’s electrical system is essential. Do you want to:

• Save money on energy bills?
• Increase the value of your home?
• Ensure safety for your family?
• Take advantage of local rebates or federal tax incentives?
• All of the above?

Communicating your goals to potential electricians can help them provide personalized solutions and recommendations that align with your priorities. This will also give you a better idea of each electrician’s level of expertise and customer service.

What to Look for in an Electrician

At an industry standard, an electrician must be licensed and insured. Beyond that, there are other crucial factors to consider when choosing a qualified electrician for your home.

Licensing and Certification

Depending on your state, electricians may require different levels of licensing or certification.

In general, look for an electrician with a valid license and who is authorized to perform electrical work in your area. This means they’ve met the requirements and are qualified to handle residential electrical projects safely and efficiently. They’ll understand the local electrical codes and regulations, ensuring your home’s electrical system is up to par.

Some electricians may also have specific certifications in areas such as energy efficiency, safety compliance, or specialized services. These can be valuable credentials to look out for when choosing an electrician.

Level of Experience

Electricity is not something to be taken lightly, and you don’t want an inexperienced electrician practicing their skills in your home. Look for an electrician with several years of experience in their field and a track record of successfully completing similar projects.

An experienced electrician will better understand potential challenges, identify and fix issues quickly, and provide time-saving and cost-saving solutions.

Insurance and Bonding

Many things can go wrong during an electrical project, and you don’t want to be held liable for damages or injuries. That’s what insurance and bonding are for.

A licensed electrician should have:

• General Liability Insurance: covers any damage to your home or property caused by the electrician’s work.
• Bonding: protects you against any financial loss if the electrician fails to complete the project or does not meet contractual obligations.

Any electrician who’s worth their salt will have these assurances in place. It’s always a good idea to ask for proof before hiring them.

References and Reviews

In this digital age, it’s incredibly easy to research a company’s reputation online before hiring them.

Take advantage of this by checking online reviews and ratings from previous customers. This can really spell out what you can expect on everything from communication and customer service to pricing and quality of work.

For larger or more unique projects, we also recommend asking for references from the electrician. Contacting past customers who have had similar work done can give you valuable insights into the electrician’s skills, professionalism, and the long-term results of their work.

Professionalism

At Lee Company, we’re well aware of the stereotypical gruff, uncommunicative contractor. That’s why we aim to break the mold by providing reliable and friendly service to all our customers.

We prioritize professionalism in all our services, including electrical work, mitigating frustration and confusion.

When interviewing potential electricians, pay attention to how they communicate and interact with you.

• Do they listen to your concerns?
• Can they explain complex electrical concepts in a way that’s easy to understand?
• Do they show up on time for appointments?

Responsiveness, overall presentation, clear communication, and attention to detail are all signs of a professional electrician who you’ll feel comfortable working with.

Best Questions to Ask an Electrician Before Hiring

Once you find some residential electrical contractors who make your shortlist, it’s time to ask the right questions. The questions below can help you gauge whether the electrician fits your needs and has the expertise to complete your project.

Questions To Determine Professional Qualifications and Experience

• Are you licensed for residential electrical work?
• Are you insured and bonded?
• How many years of experience do you have in this field?
• What kind of electrical projects are you most experienced with?
• Can you provide references from previous customers?

Questions to Assess Project Scope and Estimates

• Will you provide a detailed quote before starting the work?
• How long do you estimate the project will take?
• Are there any special considerations for my home’s electrical system?
• What are the main steps involved in my project?

Questions for Safety and Compliance

• How do you ensure safety standards are met on the job?
• Do you stay updated with the latest electrical codes and standards?
• Can you handle the permits and inspections required for the project?
• How do you manage cleanup and disposal after the job is done?

Questions About Process and Communication

• Will you be doing all of the work yourself?
• How do you communicate progress during a project?
• How do you handle unexpected issues?
• How do you handle changes or additions to the project once it starts?

Questions for Financial and Legal Aspects

• What is your policy on overruns and additional charges?
• What are the payment terms and options?
• Do you offer financing?

Questions About Possible Upgrades or Technology

• Do you have experience with smart home technology installations?
• Are there any specific brands or materials you recommend?
• Are there any energy-efficient home improvements you can recommend for my project?
• Do you know of any local or federal tax incentives or rebates that may apply to my project?

Questions About Aftercare Services

• How do you handle emergency repairs or issues?
• Do you offer a warranty on your work?
• What are your recommendations for future electrical maintenance or upgrades?
• Do you offer a Home Maintenance Plan or any other ongoing support services?

A qualified electrician should happily answer the questions above and provide reliable, informative answers.

Remember, this is your home, your electrical system, and your money, so you should feel 100% confident in the person you choose to work with.

Next Steps

After making some calls and asking questions, you’re probably getting a gut feeling about a certain electrician or company. Trust that instinct, but don’t make any hasty decisions.

There are a few more steps to take before making your final choice.

Verify Licensing and Certifications

Before hiring an electrician, make sure their license is valid and up to date. You can verify this information with your state’s licensing board or search online for “verify electrician license in [state].”

Additionally, look into any certifications the electrician may have from organizations like the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). These certifications can demonstrate a higher level of expertise and commitment to the industry.

Schedule an On-Site Inspection

Technology has come a long way, but is a quick chat on the phone or a virtual consultation really enough to accurately assess your home’s electrical needs? We recommend all homeowners schedule an on-site inspection with their chosen electrician.

Not sure what to expect from a home electrical inspection? They give the electrician a chance to see the scope of the project, evaluate any potential issues or challenges, and provide a more accurate estimate and timeline for completing the work.

Plus, it allows you to meet the electrician in person and better understand their personality and professionalism.

• Did they show up on time?
• Did they answer all of your questions thoroughly and patiently?
• Do you feel comfortable having them work in your home?
• Did they provide a detailed estimate and timeline for the project?

While an on-site electrical inspection sometimes comes with a cost, it’s a small investment that can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. With Lee Company, this service is free. So don’t hesitate to take this extra step for your project.

Get Multiple Quotes and Compare

Even if you’re sure you’ve found the perfect electrician for your project, it’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes. Two to three estimates not only allow you to compare prices and ensure you’re getting a fair deal, but they also allow you to ask follow-up questions and learn more about each electrician’s approach and recommendations for your project.

You might find that one electrician has a unique solution or insight that others didn’t mention, which could be valuable in making your final decision.

Ask for a Written Contract

Once you’ve decided on an electrician, be sure to get all the details in writing. A written contract should include:

• Scope of work
• Timeline for completion
• Materials and equipment to be used (including brand names if specified)
• Payment terms and schedule
• Cleanup and disposal expectations
• Warranty information
• Any additional agreements or conditions

A written contract helps protect both you and the electrician because it clearly outlines the expectations and responsibilities of each party. It also makes for a great reference in case of any misunderstandings or disputes.

Professional Electrical Services in the Southeast

Lee Company has been providing professional electrical services for homes across Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, and Georgia since 1944. Our licensed electricians are highly trained, experienced, and ready to handle any residential electrical project. We pride ourselves on our commitment to safety, quality workmanship, and excellent customer service.

With thousands of reviews from satisfied customers and an A+ BBB rating, Lee Company should be a top choice for all your home electrical needs. Contact us today to schedule an on-site evaluation and get a free estimate for your project!