You might not regard an electrician as someone who could hold your life in their hands in the same sense in which you might think of your doctor. However, that is exactly the situation whenever an electrician does any work at your home or your business premises. Their skills, experience, and professionalism are what allow them to carry out any electrical work to completion and, more importantly, in a safe manner.
Were that not the case, and you somehow hire an unqualified electrician, then the consequences for you, your family or your work colleagues could be deadly. Failing to complete electrical work safely can increase the risk of electrocution and fire, both of which can bring injury and, in the worst-case scenario, death.
We must emphasise that the vast majority of electricians are skilled professionals, but, as with any industry, there will be individuals who wish to cut corners or rush work so that they can move on to their next paying job. Thankfully, these types are in the minority, but to ensure that the electrician you hire is one of the many skilled professionals we have just alluded to, here are seven questions to ask them, from which the answers will confirm their suitability.
Are You Qualified And Licenced?
An electrician in Australia must be qualified and licenced. This means they will have completed a four-year apprenticeship and will have completed both theory and practical training. Only then are they allowed to apply for an electrician’s licence and should be able to prove that they, and any other electricians in their team, all have such a licence?
Are You Fully Insured?
Electricians might be asked to work in premises ranging from multi-million dollar factories to homes worth tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. As such, any risks should not be borne by the customer. Any professional electrical contractor you hire should carry liability insurance to cover most eventualities.
What Is Your Experience In Dealing With The Work I Require?
It is fair to say that no two electrical jobs or contracts will be exactly the same. However, the type of electrical work required can be similar. Ideally, you want an electrical contractor who, as an individual or as a team with several electricians, has successfully completed electrical work of the type you need.
Do You Have References Or Testimonials From Previous Clients?
An electrician or team of electrical contractors should have pride in the standard of work that they do and should therefore be proactive in asking their satisfied clients for reviews and testimonials. You should ask to see these in order to prove that they have previous clients who are happy with their work and confirmation of their professionalism.
Can You Quote Your Fee In Writing?
Never settle for verbal quotes, as you have nothing to prove the amount. Professional electrical contractors will always provide written quotations, and this should include a guarantee of no extras being added.
What Is The Estimated Timescale?
There can be many reasons why you need to have some idea of how long the work will take, especially if it is significant. Whilst you should not expect the answer to be to the nearest minute, it should at least specify the hours or days.
What Guarantees Of Workmanship Do You Offer?
You should never hire an electrician who does not guarantee their work. Professional electricians and electrical contractors will always provide a guarantee and confirm that they will return if anything is not to your satisfaction.
