What to look for when hiring an electrician

Hiring an electrician isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. A recent survey found that when hiring an electrician just 87% of customers look for an ID badge linking the tradesperson to a government-approved Part P scheme. This infographic looks at some of the things consumers should look for when hiring an electrician.

1. References – Although 67% of people rely on word of mouth when hiring an electrician, it doesn’t mean that they’re getting an accredited or qualified tradesperson. Be careful and don’t be afraid to ask for letters of satisfaction from previous customers, or even pictures to demonstrate the quality of their workmanship.
2. Registration – If you are having notifiable electrical work carried out in your home, then you should make sure you find an electrician who is registered with a Registered Competent Person Electrical, which will show they have passed an independent assessment process to prove they are competent.
3. Quotations – Electrical Safety First recommends obtaining quotations from at least 3 electricians to gain a competitive price.
4. Qualifications – Electricians in England and Wales must comply with Part P building regulations. Tradespeople who pass an independent assessment process appear on the Electricsafe or Electrical Safety Registers.
5. Accreditation – Beyond qualifications, consumers can also use competent person schemes provided by NAPIT, NICEIC and ELECSA to find proficient electricians.
6. Insurance – Ask to see paperwork confirming that the electrician has public liability insurance to protect you and your home should anything go wrong. Consumers can also enquire as to whether electricians can offer a warranty on their work.
7. Certification – Once work is completed an electrician should provide a certificate confirming that the work meets UK Safety Standards.

Not sure what your responsibilities are? Find out in our guide, Trusted Traders and Customer Responsibilities!