An electrical contractor is a professional company or business person that performs specialized construction-related work on buildings or electrical systems for commercial or residential purposes. Electrical contractors are also referred to as power supply installers. They are responsible for installing and maintaining the various electrical systems such as wiring, electrical motors, outlets, lighting, etc. Large companies or government organizations mostly hire these contractors for undertaking large projects. There are lots of things to consider when hiring an electrician contractor. Here is a short checklist of items that you will want to look for when hiring an electrical contractor:
– Licensing and certification. Two groups offer licensing programs: the Construction Contractors Association of America (CCAA) and the National Electric Contractors Association (NCEA). Both organizations provide standardized courses, and one is needed to be a member in good standing to be eligible for licensing. To check if a particular electrical contractor has met the requirements, one can check with either the CCAA or the NCCA.
– Experience. You must hire contractors that have ample experience in providing electrical services. Electricians who have been performing this line of work for several years are usually most appropriate for your particular project. This ensures that they are familiar with the job and can be trusted with the task. Moreover, experienced contractors have their own shops where they keep all their tools and equipment for repairing electrical problems.
– Licenses. There are many states that require electrical contractor license applicants to pass a written examination. These exams are conducted by government agencies in order to ensure that licensed contractors are providing quality services to their clients. To get a license, an applicant needs to pass an exam conducted by the Department of Industry.
If you plan to hire electrical contractors for various projects, you must know what kind of services he provides and how much experience he has in providing them. You should also ask for proof of insurance since some electrical contractors to perform specialized construction work. They may hold an insurance policy that covers them from risks arising from accidents. However, it is important to check first whether your potential electrical contractor really has his insurance. In most cases, these contractors will present you with a temporary policy as a condition of doing business.
It is not hard for electricians to obtain a license since most states require an electrician to obtain his license before he can start providing electrical services. Since states do not prohibit anyone from practicing as an electrician after having his license, more electricians are going for the option of becoming a licensed contractor. Besides, there are a number of benefits that you can avail if you decide to become an electrician. Some of these include a fixed salary, medical benefits, coverage for accidents, liability coverage, reduction of dues and fines if you receive any, reduction of overhead and other similar benefits.
Most electricians start their careers by working for a company which owns a number of distribution lines, such as transformers, high-voltage power transmission lines, and overloaded power distribution lines. After getting experience and working for various companies, they eventually open up their own electrical contracting business. It is not difficult for an electrician to start his own electrical contracting business if he possesses the knowledge, skill, and experience required. All that is required from you is to provide the electrician with the necessary information as well as necessary documents, and you are all set to go.
Most electrical contractors in Houston require insurance because accidents can happen at any moment. You must have a valid license in order to operate an electrical contractor. If you are planning to open your own electrical contracting business, you should take time to get all the necessary insurances from your insurance company. Many electricians are being injured every day. Make sure that your electrician has all the required insurances before starting a new business.