Expert Tips for Choosing a Suitable Electrician

Start with Licensing and Certification

Let’s get one thing out of the way first: never hire an unlicensed electrician. It might be tempting if someone offers a cheap rate, but your electrical system is no place to cut corners.

In North Carolina, licensed electricians are required to pass rigorous exams and demonstrate real-world experience. You can verify a license through the NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. A reputable electrician in Holly Springs, NC will never hesitate to provide their license number.

For business owners and larger-scale projects, make sure the electrician also has the right classification (limited, intermediate, or unlimited license) for your project’s needs.

Check for Insurance (and Ask for Proof)

A licensed electrician should also carry both liability insurance and worker’s compensation. This protects you in case of accidental damage to your property- or if a technician gets injured while working on-site.

Homeowners sometimes assume their homeowner’s policy will cover issues that arise, but that’s not always the case. Businesses, especially those with specialized electrical setups, should be extra cautious here. Always ask for a certificate of insurance.

Look for Experience with Similar Projects

Installing a ceiling fan is one thing and rewiring a 1950s ranch or setting up a three-phase system for a commercial kitchen is another. This is to say that not all electricians specialize in the same types of work.

Before you shake hands, remember to ask the electrician these questions:

• Have you worked on residential or commercial projects like mine?
• Are you familiar with the local code requirements in the area?
• What challenges have you encountered on similar jobs?

Electricians with experience in the area understand the nuances of both historic neighborhoods and new builds. That kind of local familiarity makes a big difference.

Read Reviews, and Read Them the Right Way

Customer reviews can tell you a lot, but only if you know how to interpret them. For instance, look beyond the star rating. A 4.8-star electrician with 300 reviews is likely more reliable than someone with a perfect 5.0 and only five reviews. Pay attention to mentions of:

• Timeliness and communication
• Cleanliness and professionalism
• Transparency in pricing
• Willingness to explain the work

Don’t Be Shy About the Estimate Process

An experienced and reputable electrician should be able to provide a clear and itemized estimate BEFORE work begins - and they should stand by it. It's true that labor rates vary slightly by city and project type, but a trustworthy electrician will be upfront about all charges (such as materials, labor, travel time, and more.)

Consider Their Commitment to Safety and Ongoing Training

Top-tier electricians stay up to date on electrical codes, energy efficiency, and emerging technologies like EV chargers, smart home systems, and solar integration. At Mr. Electric, for example, our team undergoes regular training and certification to ensure we meet the highest standards.

Call Mr. Electric for Urgent, Reliable Assistance

Whether you need an electrical inspection, a comprehensive installation, or emergency electrical repair, the uniformed and certified electricians at Mr. Electric have the experience, expertise, and equipment to help. Call or message us now to get in touch with a live member of our team.