Choosing an electrician, knowing if your job needs a permit, or just keeping your skills tuned into the latest advancements and regulations… Get answers to some of the most common questions by clicking the appropriate link below.
- Do I need a building permit?
Some municipalities require a building permit, others require an electrical permit and some just require that an electrical inspection be made by an approved inspection agency. Check with your local town or city building department.
- How do I find an electrical contractor?
- How do I report a problem?
If you are not able to come to a resolution between contractor and customer, customers can request from the local
Better Business Bureau to have BBB mediate any possible resolutions between customer and contractor. Or you can use one of the links below.
- Do I need an electrical license?
Some municipalities require a building permit, others require an electrical permit and some just require that an electrical inspection be made by an approved inspection agency. Check with your local town or city building department.
- What are extras?
Extras are additional costs that may occur during the work phase. For example, If you want an additional light installed, (not on the original job estimate) then this would be considered and priced as an “EXTRA”.
- What are unforeseeables?
Unforeseeables are hidden defects. Old wiring may be worn or badly frayed from age. Or maybe Mr. Handyman improperly installed his new gadget.
- Why didn’t the contractor know this?
It is impossible for anyone to know about all problems hidden or buried. Only when a hidden problem is exposed can the contractor take action.
- How should I prepare financially?
It is common practice to keep an additional 25% of an estimate at the ready. This would assist in additonal costs for extras and unforeseeables.
- Asking the right questions
Protect your assets. Make sure you ask for a copy of current license and an updated certificate of insurance. Some counties require bonding. Putnam is one of those counties, while Westchester is not.
Follow up with references. Ask questions like, “Were they happy with the results?”, “Did contractor work in a timely manor?”, “Was the contractor courteous, knowledgeable, and neat?”. The more questions you ask the better.
Ask if the contractor belongs to an organization. Electricians who belong to trade associations are generally more aware of the latest procedures, products, and code updates.
