Questions to Ask an Electrician before Hiring

Since electrical problems are among the leading causes of house fires, hiring the right

Mississauga electrician can be as much a matter of safety as getting your money’s worth.

Asking the below questions will help you find a licensed pro with the right experience and

business practices for your needs.

Question #1: Are you licensed? In most states, electricians should be licensed. There are two

basic levels of license: i) a master electrician with at least two years of professional experience

is licensed for both design and installation of electrical units, ii) An electrician with less than two

years of experience is licensed for installation only. So before you check the license, jot down

your requirements.

Question #2: Do you have liability insurance? Electrical contractors in Mississauga should

carry at least $500,000 in liability and worker’s compensation insurance. This will also keep your

bank safe, if the electrician cause any damage to your property.

Question #3: Can you provide a list of references? It’s hard to judge the quality of an

electrician’s work, even though he has years of experience. So, it is advised to ask at least three

references. An experienced and reputed electrician will provide you references without any

hesitation. After getting references, do your homework i.e. call the references and ask about

their experience with the electrician. Also, ask about the project’s budget and time.

Question #4: Who will obtain the permit? A permit ensures electrical work will be checked by a

city inspector. Every electrician should hold their permit, if they ask you to pull the permit; it is a

red flag that the electrician doesn’t have the required license to do the work.

Question #5: What does your estimate include? Along with pricing, also discuss about

incidentals like repairing drywall and other areas affected by the electrical work.

Question #6: Will you provide guarantee for your work? Learn how well a pro stands behind his

work by asking guarantee. An experienced electrician will give you guarantee, if he is assertive

in his skill and professionalism.

Question #7: Can I see a work in progress? Not every electrician will allow this, but depending

on your work, few electricians will show you a work in progress. Take advantage of the tour and

check their work thoroughly from start to finish.

As you cover the above questions, it is also advised to ask a written agreement and read the

terms & conditions given in the agreement to avoid future issues. Like a plumber and builder, a

trusted electrician is a valuable member of a domestic maintenance team. So, research well and

hire the right one.