5 QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK YOUR ELECTRICIAN BEFORE YOU SIGN ON

If you're planning electrical work, whether it’s a new build, a service upgrade, or a system retrofit, there’s a moment where you ask yourself: “Do I really need to hire a professional electrician, or can I handle this myself?”

It’s a fair question. And for people who are hands-on or used to managing projects, it might seem tempting to take shortcuts or hire the lowest bid. But when it comes to electrical systems, there’s no room for guesswork. A great electrician carefully protects your safety, your investment, and your time.

So before you sign on with anyone, ask these five questions. They’ll help you truly find the best fit for your unique project.

1. How do you coordinate with other trades on site?

Electrical work touches almost everything on a job: from HVAC to plumbing to automation and lighting design. Ask how your electrician communicates with other trades to avoid delays and overlap. The best ones have systems in place for scheduling, change orders, and coordination with general contractors or homeowners.

2. What documentation will I receive when the job is done?

When the project wraps up, you should have more than a working system. You should have peace of mind. That means labeled panels, circuit directories, equipment lists, and as-builts. A professional electrician will leave you with clear documentation for future maintenance and service calls.

3. How do you handle troubleshooting and warranty support?

Even well-installed systems can have hiccups months later. Ask about response times, service follow-up, and warranty coverage. Will they still pick up the phone after the final invoice is paid? A trustworthy electrician stands behind their work long after the job is done.

4. What types of projects or systems do you specialize in?

Electrical work can vary widely: from dairy automation and brewery systems to solar, backup power, and residential remodels. Make sure your electrician has experience in your specific application. The more familiar they are with your type of project, the smoother the process (and the fewer surprises along the way).

5. What shortcuts do you see other electricians take that you won’t?

This question tells you everything. It gives the electrician a chance to talk about craftsmanship, safety, and integrity. Listen for answers about cutting corners on wire sizing, grounding, or code compliance. These are the details that help you filter out the true professionals.

Hiring the right electrician isn’t about finding the cheapest quote. It’s about choosing a partner who values safety, quality, and communication. When you ask the questions, know what you’re looking for in the answers too. The upfront cost of doing it right once is always less than the cost of doing it twice.