How to Find a Great Electrician

Electricity is one of those things that most people take for granted. As long as the power flows when we plug in an appliance and doesn’t spark or flicker, we’re inclined to not think about it.

But then one day (or night, or weekend), it happens. ‘It’ being flickering lights, sparks emanating from a light switch, or even the sound of your daughter’s shriek when all of the power goes out. (This always happens when they’re in the shower!)

And then.

Then, you need an electrician, and you need one now.

There is always the hope that you’ll find an electrician before you need one. The preference is to find an electrician when you decide you want a new ceiling fan or to add some security lights to your front yard or some other non-emergency matter. But, time is a luxury we don’t all have all the time, so here is a rundown on some of the ways to find a great electrician:

1) Licensed, bonded, insured, experienced
It’s always great to have a handyman, and we love them, too, because you can have them come out and do several things at once. But, electrical work is one of those things that it is better to have someone who is certified. If electrical work is done incorrectly, it can cause a fire, and exponentially increase your problems.

2) Read the online reviews

Consistency is the key. A company with high ratings is your best bet. As with any review system, there may be one or two who end up being unhappy. We all expect that, which means service people have to give every job their very best effort. If customers leave reviews which express they’re consistently unhappy with the company, try someone with better ratings. 

3) Smart home, smart electrician

Electricians have to keep up with technology

A good electrician keeps an eye on current technology and innovation. When it comes to new products on the market, a good electrician is one of the first people to find out more about it.
A good electrician will take continuing classes, constantly look for ways to learn new things, keep abreast of innovation and new technology. Electrical work used to be wires and switches. Electrical work now is solar,  wireless, and Smart.

4) Referrals from family, co-workers, and other pros.

Electricians build their client base one happy customer at a time. Word spreads when an electrician shows up on time, troubleshoots, fixes the problem and gets your power back on. A good electrician is sensitive to both your inconvenience and safety.

 Even tradespeople from other service professions know the good from the bad since service professionals frequently have to cooperate with one another on jobs. As an example, if you were to ask me to recommend an excellent plumber, I know the one I'd recommend.

5) Sample their work before an emergency

If you want a connection to an electrical company before an emergency, the easiest way to do that is to have them come out and do a nonemergency call--maybe add some recessed lighting or install that ceiling fan. Then, you’ll be able to see their work firsthand and can add them to your contacts with confidence.