Picking a Residential Electrician

A Residential electrician can install, maintain and upgrade electrical equipment and systems, in townhomes, apartments, condos, and houses. They can also install outdoor landscape lighting. Their scope of work covers everything from simple outlet improvements to breaker box upgrades and total house rewirings. They also work on construction sites to install wiring and boxes in new homes.
From the simple to the more complex, be safe and rely on a licensed residential electrician to handle the job. Finding a qualified electrician can be easier than finding other service-based businesses. When a residential electrician shows you his state license, it is safe to assume a certain level of competence. However, there are two degrees of a pro to consider.

A Master Electrician

Has at least two years of experience under his belt and has passed the standardized test. He knows the National Electrical Code and any modifications that the state of Utah has made to it. He is qualified to design, plan, install and maintain an electrical system for any project.

A Journeyman Electrician

Does not have a master’s license, but he does have a state license. Journeyman electricians can work unsupervised provided that they work according to a master’s direction. By law, he cannot design systems but can install wiring and equipment.

There is one more safeguard. For most electrical jobs a permit issued by your local building department is required. An inspector must take a look at the electrical work and make sure it is up to code before the building inspector can sign off on the work. This ensures the work was done properly and safely.

Picking the Right Pro

Electricians tend to specialize in a particular field. Some focus on new construction. Others concentrate on commercial properties. There are those that mainly go on service calls to fix dead outlets or faulty fixtures. Electricians who specialize in remodeling have mastered techniques for wiring existing homes and additions. Such techniques are snaking wires through finished walls, assessing the capacity of existing circuits and evaluating whether to install an additional service panel. Current circuit breakers may not be able to handle increased power demands.

If you are working with a general contractor, ask if they have a list of dependable electricians they can recommend. If not, you can check with the local home- builders’ association, or ask those you know that have experience with hiring a residential electrician. Be sure to inform them of the kind of work you need done. This will get you the right pro for the job.

During the interview with an electrician, ask to proof of insurance as well as a copy of his state license. Don’t be afraid to ask, and never skip this step. A reputable contractor will have both a license and insurance. Look to see that they are both are current.

Licensing is important. It ensures that the company is allowed to do the work. Insurance is extremely important. You will want to be covered in case of damage, injury, or accidents. Make a copy of the current policy. Verify that it provides adequate coverage for the job and that it will be valid for when the work is scheduled. A lapse can turn a relatively minor issue into a major problem.

Don’t Get Left in the Dark

When looking for a residential electrician, call the professional electricians at SameDay Heating & Air. All of our Electricians are licensed and insured. When it comes to home electrical services, we are proud to offer a team of well-trained and extremely knowledgeable technicians. To schedule an appointment or request an estimate for our professional electrical services, call our Green Team® at (801) 726-3329 today.