Choosing an Electrician

By Mark Penn


Within the walls of your home lies a well-planned highway of electric wiring, moving energy to your appliances at nearly The speed of light. Without the work of an accredited electrician, that copper network could mean faulty switches and outlets, or worse-a devastating electric fire. That's why choosing an electrician who is authorized for all wiring repairs or new wiring installation is a vital process.

1. Take safety measures.

If you smell smoke or see an electrical fire developing, escape from the building as fast as possible and call your local emergency number. Since electrical fires begin within your walls, you may not see how far the flames have progressed, so fast action is imperative.

Even if you can't detect a fire, take flawed wiring seriously. Sparking or buzzing means an exposed circuit, so don't approach it. Go quickly to the circuit breaker panel in your house, find the problem circuit, and flip the switch to the "off" position.

2. Find a local electrician.

Whether independent or part of a bigger company, your electrical engineer should have:

- An authorization and license in your area. (Every one of the United States has different certification. England and Wales share a set of requirements, but Scotland and Northern Ireland each vary.)

- Insurance. (It may cover negligent problems with your home.)

- Referrals. (Ask colleagues for referrals,, read reviews online, and gear up to ask for references.)

3. Get free estimates.

Most contractors offer free quotes on fix cost. Have your top candidates appraise the problem in person and give written estimates. Not only can you control the budget for the project, doubtless unplanned, but you can also meet the tradesman who could be working in your home.

4. Hire an electrical engineer.

Agree on all work and payment before putting a signature on the contract or allowing the electrician to do anything more than evaluate the problem. Then follow the work closely by asking mannered questions. Avoid making cash payments as they're harder to trace. Dependent on where you live, you can receive documentation of the work's conformance to safety standards. Britain needs electricians to certify that their work meets the United Kingdom Safety Standard, BS 7671.




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