You should not DIY electrical work, especially if you know nothing about it. Why? Electrocution that leads to burns and death or fires that destroy property can occur. That is why it is always recommended to hire qualified and licensed electricians. Here's what you need to know when choosing an electrician.
Residential versus Commercial Electrician
If you need an electrician for commercial premises electrical needs, ensure you hire an electrician who offers commercial electrical services and not residential electrical services. Additionally, the electrician should also specialise in your industry because different industries have different electrical needs. This mainly helps you get a qualified electrician who will offer quality and safe electrical services. Most residential electricians might not be qualified enough to handle the electrical needs of a commercial setting.
If you have residential electrical needs, hire a residential electrician. The commercial electrician might be in a position to assist, but they may be overqualified and might charge you more.
Ensure the Electrician You Are Hiring Holds a Licence
For an electrician to hold a licence, it means that they have completed the required electrical course and gone through training.
Training is essential because it exposes electricians to different electrical work scenarios, teaches them how to safely conduct electrical work and makes them understand the different standards and legislative requirements in the electrical field.
Therefore, before hiring an electrician, ask them to show you their licence. Each state has a government-provided database/website where you can check the validity or genuineness of the licence.
Ensure the Electrician You Are Hiring Is Insured
As indicated above, electrical work can lead to injuries, destruction of property and even death. Even if the electrician you are hiring is qualified and licenced, accidents do happen. Be on the safe side and hire electricians who are insured. How do you benefit from this? In case of any injury or property damage, you will not be liable, meaning you won't incur the expenses associated with the electrical damage or harm.
Ask If the Electrician Can Issue You with a Certificate of Test
Most licensed electrical contractors are in a position to issue you with a certificate of test. The certificate highlights the details of the electrician, electrical work that was performed and a clause that specifies that the electrical work that was done is safe and follows the required wiring rules, electrical standards and legislative regulations.
Contact an electrician in your area to learn more.