Tips for Hiring an Electrician

Shortly after moving into our home, we realized there were a few short cuts taken when our home was built in the 80’s. This is especially true with the electrical work.  All of the little quirks were things that we could live with, but having them done makes our lives easier. We have been putting these things off now for 4 years and it was finally time to take care of them. As you know, I am a total DIY girl. But sometimes I realize there are things I can’t or shouldn’t do myself, like replace ceiling fans at the peak of a cathedral ceiling, troubleshooting the wiring of an outlet in our bathroom, and adding coach lights to both sides of our garage.

After a lot of time and a couple of headaches, I came across the perfect electrician for the job.

What is gray, crisp and hangs from the ceiling? A careless electrician. To avoid hiring this type of careless electrician, I have provided you with a few tips that will save you time and frustration.

Tips for Hiring an Electrician

1. Make a list of all the work you’re wanting accomplished. Is it a repair, renovation, or adding/changing out new/existing light fixtures? Analyze what you would like done, to find the right electrician experienced in the area your work is in. If you are having an electrical problem, be sure to hire someone with knowledge and experience in troubleshooting. Do a little research. Start looking for lighting fixtures, ceiling fans or anything else you may need. The more information you have the better your end result will be.

2. Read reviews online, talk to your family, friends and neighbors to see who they have hired for their electrical needs. Good customer service skills and a great personality can go a long way. When I was calling around , I spoke to a person that was extremely rude to me on the phone. Needless to say, I didn’t hire him. I have a rule; If you are rude to me on the phone, then I am not going to pay you to be rude to me in my home. Also, check reviews to see if the candidate is neat and tidy. Who wants to clean up someone else’s mess? Remember, you can always ask for a list of references too.

3. Call up any potential electricians. Make  appointments for them to come out for an estimate. Be up front about the time frame you are expecting the work completed in. Also, define up front all the work that needs to be done.  You will get a much more accurate estimate. Sharing only a portion what you want done will only lead to confusion later.

4. Before hiring, check that the electrician is insured and certified. This will save you a lot of problems in the long run.

There you have it, a little research will help you hire a professional and get the job done right. If are looking for a recommendation and you are living in the Rochester, New York area feel free to email me.