How to choose your electrician

If you’re a DIY type, it might be tempting to attempt minor electrical repairs yourself, but it is very risky to do so. The sensible and safe approach is to employ a properly trained and licenced electrician for any electrical work, big or small.

With the countless electricians available, it can be difficult to choose one you can trust. So, how do you pick out the right electrician for your needs? Here are some useful tips that we’ve gathered on the subject.

Are they qualified?

A good electrician is qualified and licensed. Ask for their qualifications, as these mean that they have completed any necessary training and are able to perform electrical work legally. If they’re a member of professional electrical associations like ESAA (Energy Supply Association of Australia), NECA (National Electrical and Communications Association) or ECA (Electrical Contractors Association), this is a good indication that they have high standards of practice.

The electrician should also have appropriate insurance. If specialist electrical work is involved, ensure the electrician has the experience, training and the appropriate licence required for that work. There’s nothing wrong with asking the electrician for references so you can inquire about their previous work. A good electrician will be happy to provide these.

Are they available when you need them?

Sometimes, you need electrical work done as soon as possible or within a reasonable timeframe. It could be repairs, installation of lights or power points, wiring for renovations or other specific requirements.

Check that the electrician is available to do your electrical job during a time period you both agree to. It’s very inconvenient and time-wasting to wait around for the electrician to arrive, so you need some assurance that they will be there. If they are delayed or cannot make it, you need to know they’ll call ahead in a timely manner to reschedule.

Emergencies are a special situation: check for 24/7 emergency service availability if you need them to come immediately, even if it is outside of business hours, late at night, or on a weekend.

Are they a good communicator?

Having an electrician you can communicate with well is important. This means having aspects of the job fully explained, progress reports, and them being open to hearing and responding to your requirements, directions or concerns. Knowing where electrical fittings such as lights or power points should be placed, wiring and any other pertinent information is part of ensuring the job is completed successfully.

What do they charge?

Getting many quotes from electricians will help you decide who to hire. Make sure that you list down specific requirements so electricians can give you accurate quotes. The quote can include any labour, materials, services, warranties, and after-sale services available.

Going for the cheapest quote doesn’t mean that you’ve gotten the best deal. Choosing the most expensive one isn’t a guarantee that you’re hiring the best electrician. An experienced, licensed electrician you can communicate with is the best option, not just the best quote. Take all these aspects into consideration before making your final decision.