Those living in Brighton, MI and looking for electrical contractors need to do research before choosing. Here are questions to ask before hiring an electrician.
Are you wondering how to hire a high-quality electrician in Brighton, MI? How about finding an electrician in other parts of Michigan?
With job growth increasing from 2010 to 2020 at about a 23% job growth rate, it’s vital to separate and find a quality electrician.
In this article, find out the top tips and questions to ask when hiring an electrician. Read on to avoid hiring the wrong electrician, and pick the correct one for your needs today.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Michigan?
When you’re on the search for a high-quality electrician in Michigan, you’ll want to ask about the electrician’s license and insurance.
Ensure that they have a valid contractor license, insurance, and bonding. These requirements will make sure that they completed the training and education necessary to be an electrician.
Are Your Workers Insured?
If they’re a larger company, you’ll want to find out who will do the job, and what licenses they have. Some states only require the company to have the license, and not the workers themselves.
2. What Credentials Do You Have?
Next, you’ll want to find out what their business practices are. Also, what kind of electrical methods they use, whether that’s a replacement, repair, etc.
Find out what types of services they offer, and what their specialties are.
3. What References Do You Have?
You’ll want to check out reviews and references on their website, search engines, and asking for them. Keep in mind that reviews can be subjective, so one bad review doesn’t mean they are bad.
If you notice a pattern of bad reviews, then that could be a red flag. Ask the electrician for references of people who you can reach out to.
4. What’s Your Specific Specialty?
Some electricians might just focus on commercial work, while others might do residential. You’ll want to find an electrician who has plenty of experience with what work you need to have done.
5. What’s Your Level of Experience?
Find out how many years they’ve been an electrician for. While licensing is important, it’s also vital that they have the experience to back it up.
6. What About Emergencies?
Find out if they offer emergency services. While some businesses are only open 8-5, an electrical emergency can happen at any time. You’ll want to know they have an answering service that’s available 24/7 for your emergency needs in Michigan.
7. What Financing Options Do You Have?
Sometimes money isn’t just laying around to pay for unforeseen electrical emergencies. That’s why it’s important to go with an electrician who offers financing options.
Find out what financing options they have, the monthly payment, and interest rates. Also, find out how long the approval process will take. Some high-quality electricians can get you an answer within 24 hours.
8. What Are the Service Fees?
Find out in advance what service fees there will be. This can include travel costs, trip charges, and other services fees. Avoid any hidden fees by asking in advance.
9. Will I Receive a Cost Quote?
Ask the electrician if they’ll provide a quote or detailed estimate about the cost of services. While an electrician can give you an honest quote, older homes in Michigan or unexpected emergencies can increase the price.
You can also ask whether they charge based on a flat-rate, or for time and material.
Choosing an Electrician
After picking electricians with warranties, licensing, and the above, it’s time to pick out the ideal electrician. First, you can ask family and friends for referrals.
While some do this, it’s important to take a look at their referral, and make sure that they meet the above recommendations.
Has Insurance
You’ll also want to make sure that the electrician of your choosing has liability insurance as well. In case there’s an accident at your home or business, this will protect you from charges.
Find Out If They’re a National Company
This is up to personal opinion whether you’d prefer a local or nationwide company. If it is a national company, you’ll want to make sure that the worker they send is insured and licensed.
Get Quotes
Don’t just go with your first choice, call around. Check multiple sites, ask friends and family, etc. Do a comparison of the electricians in the area to narrow it down.
You can also ask if the materials are part of the price, or if they’re a separate rate.
Communication and Performance
While emergencies can happen, you’ll want an electrician who will let you know if they’re running behind. Never stay with someone who doesn’t communicate with you.
If they’re going to be delayed, do they let you know? You’ll want to make sure that you’re both on the same page before any work begins.
Once they do arrive, how is the work performed? Are they courteous and helpful? Did they answer any questions you have? Did they let you know what was going to be done?
If you’re left in the dark and there’s no communication, you might want to reconsider your electrician.
What Questions to Ask When Hiring an Electrician
Now that you’ve explored the questions to ask when hiring an electrician, you should be well on your way to picking the right one for your needs.
Are you ready to find a high-quality electrician in the Howell and Brighton area? Someone who has a 24/7 answering service in case of emergencies that might pop up?
Who will listen and answer all questions and concerns you might have? Contact us today, and we’ll come up with an action plan that’s unique to your needs.
