What You Need To Know About Hiring an Electrician

Performing quality electrical work requires experience and expertise. If you need residential electric services in Annapolis, it’s important to select a qualified electrician. Continue reading for more information on how to sort through the good and bad electricians for your project.

State Licensure and Insurance

Be sure the electrician you hire has current licensure from the state. This ensures a respectable level of competence with electrical work. The electrician should also have current insurance that will cover damage to your property in the event of an accident. We recommend that the electrician have a minimum of $500,000 in liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage.

Permits and References

To perform most residential or commercial electrical services, the electrician will need a permit issued by the local building department. Before the building inspector will sign off on the electrical work, he or she must be sure it comports with local codes. If the licensure, insurance, and permits check out, ask for references. The electrician should be able to provide several references that can attest to the quality of his or her work.

Master Electricians

There are two primary types of qualifications for electricians: master electrician and journeyman electrician. Master electricians have passed a standardized test and have at least two years of work experience as an electrician. You can expect a master electrician to know the National Electrical Code, as well as any changes your state has made to it. Master electricians can plan, design, install, and maintain electrical systems.

Journeyman Electricians

Journeyman electricians are licensed by the state but have not yet qualified for a master’s license. In some states, journeyman electricians are required to work alongside master electricians. Journeyman electricians can install wiring and equipment, but they cannot design systems.

Specializations

Many electricians have specializations, such as new construction, commercial work, remodeling, or faulty fixtures. If you have a specific project in mind, find an electrician who specializes in this type of work.