Electrical issues in the house are alarming, especially when the repercussions can be extremely severe. Unless you’re a certified electrician (or live with one), it’s easy to dismiss minor issues like a sparking electrical socket or a breaker that trips when you switch on the toaster oven while the microwave is on.

As a homeowner, it’s crucial to resolve these electrical issues quickly. You may not know what to ask an electrician before hiring them, but rest assured, the C-U Trade Services team is here to help. We’ve got you covered. Below are the most common questions you should ask before hiring a professional electrician.

Common Electrical Issues at Home

What happens when you plug in an appliance or device and the outlet ignites?

An outlet that sparks occasionally isn’t generally needed to call an electrician immediately. However, you should contact an electrician immediately if you see sparks every time you use that outlet. Here’s what might be going on:

  • Short Circuit: A short circuit might be causing the outlet to ignite. Short circuit heat may degrade the insulation around a wire over time, exposing the bare metal. This is a significant fire risk.
  • Old Outlet: If your home is older and hasn’t been upgraded, the outlets (and the wires that connect them) may have become loose over time. When electricity passes through loose cables, it might cause a spark.
  • Normal Sparking: The sparks you see may just be a few electrons getting ahead of themselves when you connect a device. An electrician can tell for sure.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Electrician

1. Do you have any formal training or experience?

There are numerous levels of electrician certifications based on training and experience. The complexity of your electrical job will determine the kind you want and whether the electrician will work alone or with a team. Make sure your electrician is familiar with the electrical system in your home.

2. What kind of electrical projects do you specialize in?

While some electricians specialize in residential work, others may have more experience with commercial projects. Different electrical issues require unique solutions and understanding. If your house needs new ceiling fans, avoid hiring someone who has only worked on lighting exterior billboards.

3. Will the work be done by subcontractors?

Unless you have a large electrical project requiring multiple technicians, most electricians work alone or in a small team. However, before any contracts are signed, clarify this topic. Ask the following if an electrician delegates any tasks to subcontractors:

  • How many subcontractors will you hire?
  • How long have you been working with these individuals?
  • Does your liability insurance cover subcontractors?

4. Do you need permits or inspections?

For more significant electrical work, you might need a permit and/or inspection. Ask the electrician if they need these and if they’ll handle the legwork. Most reputable contractors will arrange inspections and obtain necessary permits, usually included in the final price.

5. Can you tell me about your work schedule?

Electricians may need greater flexibility, especially if juggling multiple tasks. Clarify the following schedule issues before hiring:

  • Request an estimate of how long the job will take.
  • Ask about their daily start and stop times, break schedules, and whether you must be home while they work.
  • Discuss what will happen in case of delays. Will they be available late at night or on weekends? Will there be additional charges?

6. Do you provide any guarantee or warranty?

Inquire about what happens after the work is finished. Parts warranties come with devices like lights and outlets, but choose an electrician offering a service warranty. A one-year work warranty is a minimum, but many quality contractors extend it to several years, if not a lifetime.

7. Is it possible to observe a work in progress?

Depending on your project, visiting an electrician’s current job site can be beneficial. Look for signs of a deliberate, organized installation:

  • Neat cable runs near the service panel (breaker box)
  • Clearly labeled circuit breakers and standard cable anchoring
  • Square, flush switch boxes with the drywall surface. Listen for a professional demeanor. You want someone who explains what they’re doing and why, helping you understand your system’s basics.

8. Will you provide me with a thorough estimate or cost quote for the task?

Many electricians will offer a firm price for services before starting the project. However, new issues may arise, especially in older homes. Discuss potential additional charges beforehand to avoid “surprise” fees when billing. Also, ask if they charge by the hour or a flat rate.

Flat-rate pricing can sometimes lead to higher expenses for the customer. Some contractors may charge an estimate fee, averaging $100-$125, before providing a flat-rate cost. If you decide to contact another contractor, you might forfeit this initial fee. Additionally, many flat-rate repair organizations pay their personnel on commission, which can lead to conflicts during diagnostics.

Looking for an Electrician in Champaign, IL?

Contact C-U Trade Services at 217-954-0385. We’re happy to answer these and any other concerns you may have. We’re available at all times and ready to handle all your HVAC, plumbing, and electrical needs for both residential and commercial properties in the greater Champaign, IL region.