| Questions to ask an Electrician
If you need to consult a professional electrician or electrical
contractor, ask the following questions to learn whether the
individuals you're considering are fully qualified and likely
to do reliable work at a reasonable price.
Are you licensed in this municipality?
Will my electrical panel need replacement?
Will I have to apply for a permit?
Is my home's electrical system adequately grounded?
Are there any hidden costs for the work?
Will you use all-copper wiring for any new installation?
If my service needs upgrading, will the entire house have to be rewired?
Can you provide references from other homeowners?
Are you licensed in this municipality?
Not all states, counties or towns regulate or require licenses
for electricians, but it's prudent to check first with your
local building department. Also ask if electrical work in
your municipality must adhere to standards established by
the National Electrical Code. [top]
Will my electrical panel need replacement?
The current National Electrical Code recommends a minimum
100-amp incoming electrical service. If your service panel
provides less, it should be upgraded to this level or better
to meet today's home requirements. Most new homes are wired
with 200-amp service. [top]
Will I have to apply for a permit?
If a permit is required, the electrician often will make the
application for the homeowner. Some municipalities allow homeowners
to do minor electrical repairs and installations if they first
secure a permit and have the work inspected when complete. [top]
Is my home's electrical system adequately
grounded?
Ground-wiring protects a home and its occupants in case of
an electrical fault, such as a short-circuit. But grounding
also protects expensive electronic equipment like computers
and many appliances. An electrician can quickly check and
add grounding capacity if needed. [top]
Are there any hidden costs for the work?
The electrician should do a thorough preliminary inspection
and provide you with a firm, accurate estimate of the work
involved, along with the cost of fixtures or wiring that will
be installed. If additional work is necessary, it can be negotiated
and billed separately. [top]
Will you use all-copper wiring for any
new installation?
Solid copper wiring is the material of choice for new homes
or renovations. Although 14-gage wire is allowed for many
circuits, it's smart to install heavier 12-gage wiring, which
costs a little more but can handle more electrical current,
making it safer and more energy-efficient.
[top]
If my service needs upgrading, will the
entire house have to be rewired?
Unless you live in a very old home with antiquated wiring,
you probably won't have to replace your existing electrical
lines. However, if you require more electrical capacity in
certain rooms, new wiring runs and additional outlets are
likely to be needed. [top]
Can you provide references from other
homeowners?
Every tradesperson or electrician is only as good as their
reputation. If you have never contracted with the electrician
who answered your call, it's fair to ask for the names of
other homeowners who have and to give them a call to check
the contractor's work. [top]
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