Choosing an Electrical Contractor
The right electrical contractor is essential to any new construction. Is your contractor up to the job?
Top Five Considerations
Are you starting a building from the ground up? Whether you’re constructing a work shed in your backyard or a multi-level factory plant, you need to hire an electrical contractor. Here’s how to pick the right one.
1. Strict Adherence to Code and Safety Measures
We put this first because it should be first on everyone’s list.
Electrical accidents are the third leading cause of injuries on construction sites after falls from roofs and flying objects. You need technicians who don’t fool around with safety. Every electrical contractor should follow the National Electoral Code (NEC) safety manual. The entire crew should be well-versed in this “bible” of electrical safety.
In addition, there are probably state safety codes you need to follow. In Virginia, for instance, installation and maintenance of standby power systems must follow the International Fire Code and the NEC requirements.
Codes Help Everyone
The Virginia Building and Codes Officials Association (VBCOA) developed the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC). In an interview with the board, City of Galax Project Manager Jimmy Moss said the code helps everyone involved in the construction industry.
“The idea is not for the code to be an obstacle, but the road map to where the customer wants to be,” said Moss.
The codes are there to keep us all safe. Your electrical contractor should put safety ahead of everything else.
2. Licenses and Certifications
Don’t hire an electrician that doesn’t have a state-issued license. Unlicensed contractors are responsible for some of the biggest, costliest scams in the state. If a contractor’s estimate sounds unreasonably low, you’re probably dealing with one of these scammers.
The Virginia Board for Contractors issues contractor licenses only to those companies that can demonstrate:
- Enough experience to pass a rigorous exam.
- Years of relevant experience.
- Clean financial and criminal background.
- Ability to be bonded and insured.
Ask to See the License Number
The license comprises two parts. The first part is the class of license, which is designated by an A, B, or C. The letter refers to the size and scope of the project the license holder can legally manage.
License holders with B and C designations can only take projects of limited scope and size A holder with a class A license can take on any project of any size.
The second part is the type of work the contractor can do. A contractor with a roofing license can’t legally do electrical work and vice versa.
Always ask to see the contractor’s license or get the license number.
3. References and Reviews
Has your contractor received positive reviews from past customers? According to the company reputation, 85% of consumers trust online reviews as much as they trust a personal recommendation from a friend. That’s because only happy customers go out of their way to post glowing reviews.
Does your contractor get excellent reviews? Do they have local references who have used their services? Ask your business associates, neighbors, and colleagues about the contractor. Chances are good their reputation is already well-established.
4. Experience Doing the Work You Have In Mind
Your ideal contractor has a well-rounded team of technicians who can handle everything from switching outlet covers to installing commercial generators. You should be able to count on your electrical contractor to take care of every detail quickly and safely. Choose a contractor with a solid grounding in residential, commercial, and industrial work.
5. Strong Presence In Your Community
Has your contractor been in the community for a long time? It’s always good to know you’re doing business with someone who cares about what happens in your town and your neighborhood.
When you support local businesses, you help your whole community prosper. Choose a contractor with a strong local presence.
SESCOS Is the Solution
SESCOS has been serving residents and businesses in Loudoun County for almost 50 years. We’ve grown with this community from the days of its first street lights to its current status as a thriving region. We have deep roots here, and we’re not going anywhere.
SESCOS is a class A licensed contractor with experience in all phases of new residential, commercial, and industrial construction. Contact us today for all your electrical needs.