This article explores essential questions to ask an electrician before you hire them. Find out what you need to know.
Hiring an electrician is a big decision. Whether it’s a small repair or a major electrical project, choosing the right electrician is crucial for safety, efficiency, and long-term success.
Electrical work in your home or business must follow strict regulations, and hiring an electrician who is both competent and trustworthy will protect your property, save you money, and reduce risk.
10 Essential Questions To Ask Before Hiring An Electrician
By asking the right questions, you can identify a professional electrician, avoid the wrong choice, and ensure your project is handled safely. Below are 10 essential questions to ask before hiring an electrician.
These will help you verify qualifications, check references, understand costs, and make sure the job is performed properly. With this list in hand, you’ll be ready to compare many electricians and find the good electrician who’s the best fit for your needs.
Are you a qualified and registered electrician (and do you have the right insurance)?
In the UK, electricians aren’t licensed by the state, but there are qualifications, training, and registrations that separate a good electrician from a risky one.
A professional electrician should hold certifications such as City & Guilds or NVQ Level 3 in electrical installation, and ideally be a registered electrician under a government-approved scheme like NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA. Registered electricians can self-certify their electrical work and ensure compliance with building regulations, permits, and safety requirements.
Insurance is equally important. Always ask your electrician for proof of liability insurance. An insured electrician carries public liability insurance (usually £2m or more) that covers damages or injury if something goes wrong on the job.
If the electrician runs a larger electrical company with employees, they should also have employer’s liability insurance. Knowing your electrician is insured, registered, and qualified gives you peace of mind. A responsible, professional, and insured electrician will provide documentation without hesitation.
What experience do you have with this type of electrical work?
Electrical systems vary, and not every electrical contractor has the same expertise. Hiring an electrician with experience in your specific project reduces risk and ensures efficiency.
For example, wiring installation in a new extension is different from upgrading an electrical panel in an older home, or managing a commercial electrical project that requires complex systems.
Ask your electrician if they have performed work on similar jobs. A competent, experienced electrician will provide references or examples of completed projects. If you’re planning an inspection for a rental property, ensure they can issue proper certificates.
If you’re a business owner, ask if their electrical company has tackled similar commercial installations. A professional electrician should be able to explain their past experience and demonstrate knowledge in handling different kinds of electrical work. This helps you avoid mistakes, identify the right electrician for your needs, and feel confident in the outcome.
Can you provide a detailed written quote, and what will it include?
Before any electrical service begins, hiring an electrician should always start with a clear written estimate. Verbal quotes can lead to frustration, additional costs, or disputes later.
A proper estimate should break down labour, materials, and service charges. It should also note whether additional fees like disposal or travel are included.
Ask your electrician to clarify if the quote covers fixtures, fittings, and wiring, and whether VAT is included. Good electricians will provide transparency in their quotes, list materials, and clarify payment terms. Always check for hidden service charges, additional costs, or unexpected fees.
Comparing three quotes from different electricians is wise. If one quote is dramatically lower, ask your electrician why-it could indicate shortcuts or low-quality materials. A reliable electrical contractor will be upfront, provide references, and put everything in writing.
Can you provide references or evidence of your previous work?
A professional electrician should be proud to share references. Ask an electrician for the contact details of previous happy customers who can vouch for their quality. References provide insight into reliability, workmanship, and professionalism.
If possible, speak with two previous customers and ask questions you should ask, such as: Did the electrician finish the job on time? Was the property left tidy? Were there any problems, and how were they handled?
In addition to references, check online reviews. Many electricians list their business on Google, Checkatrade, or Trustpilot. Reading reviews gives you proof of excellence and confidence that you’re dealing with a reliable electrical company. Mind knowing how the electrician has performed work for other clients helps you make a better hiring decision.
Will you ensure the work meets UK regulations and provide permits or certificates?
Electrical projects must comply with building regulations and required permits. Hiring an electrician who ignores these rules is dangerous. Always ask before hiring: “Will you obtain the required permits, and will I receive proper certification?”
A registered electrician can self-certify their work and issue an Electrical Installation Certificate or Minor Works Certificate. For significant electrical work-like upgrading an electrical panel, performing a rewire, or installing new systems-your electrician should ensure the correct permits are in place.
This paperwork protects your property, supports your insurance, and provides peace of mind knowing the project was handled legally. A professional, responsible electrician will handle compliance for you, so you don’t have to risk anything going wrong.
Do you offer a warranty or guarantee on your work?
A good electrician stands behind their work. Ask your electrician what warranty or guarantees are offered.
Many electricians guarantee workmanship for 12 months, covering issues caused by poor installation. Additionally, fixtures or parts may carry manufacturer warranties.
Electrical companies registered with NICEIC often include the Platinum Promise, which provides coverage if something goes wrong and the contractor can’t fix it.
Guarantees protect your investment, provide peace of mind, and encourage confidence in your hiring decision. A professional electrician should explain clearly what is covered, how long the warranty lasts, and provide written proof.
What is the estimated timeline for the job, and how soon can you start?
Every electrical project has a timeline. Asking this question helps you plan, manage disruption, and set expectations. For example, a small electrical service like fixing a socket may only take an hour, while a full rewire or wiring installation could require several days.
Ask your electrician to outline the stages, including inspections, installation, and testing. If hiring an electrical company, ask if the master electrician or subcontractors will perform the work.
Many electricians are booked weeks ahead, so ask before hiring when they can start. Clear communication about time and process helps avoid frustration and ensures the project is completed responsibly.
What are your payment terms and schedule?
Money and service charges should always be clear before work begins. Ask your electrician whether they charge per hour or by fixed project rate. For larger projects, clarify if staged payments are needed. A deposit of 20–30% is common, but be wary if an electrician requests full payment upfront.
Discuss additional fees if unforeseen problems are found, such as outdated wiring that needs replacement. Ask how they will inform you of changes and provide a breakdown of costs.
Reliable electricians provide a contract or written plan that includes labour, materials, and payment milestones. Clear terms protect both you and the electrician financially and prevent disputes.
What safety precautions will you take?
Safety is essential in every electrical job. Ask your electrician how they will protect your property, themselves, and anyone else in the building. A professional electrician should mention turning off electricity, locking circuits, and using insulated tools.
Insist on hiring an electrician who follows regulated safety practices, including inspection and testing after installation.
Discuss how they will perform work safely, protect your home, and avoid dangerous mistakes. Knowing your electrician values safety ensures the project is handled responsibly and with competence.
Will you clean up after the job and dispose of waste?
Cleanup is often overlooked but important. Electrical work leaves behind wiring offcuts, packaging, and sometimes old equipment. Ask an electrician if cleanup and disposal are included in the job. Good electricians provide this service and will even recycle old electrical fixtures.
For bigger projects, clarify whether making good-like filling plaster holes-is included. A reliable electrician should leave your property safe, tidy, and ready for use. Asking this in advance prevents additional costs or disputes later.
Questions to Ask an Electrician: Final Thoughts
Hiring an electrician isn’t only about price-it’s about finding a competent, qualified, and professional electrician who values safety, communication, and quality. By asking these ten questions, you’ll learn about their training, insurance, references, and guarantees, and avoid the wrong choice.
Ask before hiring, check references, and compare estimates. The right electrician will provide clear answers, proof of registration, and peace of mind knowing your electrical project is safe and completed to high standards.
By following this guide, you’ll protect your property, avoid risk, and enjoy the benefits of reliable electrical work that stands the test of time.
Find a Trusted Local Electrician Today
Don’t leave your electrical project to chance. The right electrician can protect your home, save you money, and ensure the job is done safely. Our business directory makes hiring an electrician simple – helping you connect with registered, insured, and professional electricians in your area.
Search now to find local electrical companies with proven experience, positive reviews, and the qualifications you need for peace of mind. Whether it’s a small repair or a major installation, you’ll find the right electrician to handle the work with care and professionalism.
Start your search in our directory today and hire a trusted local electrician with confidence.
Sources:
WLEC – 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Electrician (WLEC Blog, March 13, 2025)
RJA Electrical Services – 10 Questions You Must Ask an Electrician before Hiring (Blog post, Apr 10, 2020)
MD Bespoke Solutions – Five questions to ask when hiring a contractor for electrical work (Blog, April 24, 2017)
M. Electrical Services – 10 Things You Need To Know Before Hiring A Local Electrician
NICEIC – Electricians Public Liability Insurance