subject: Tip for choosing the right Electrician [print this page] Tip for choosing the right Electrician Tip for choosing the right Electrician
Although it can be tempting to undertake DIY electrical work, these odd jobs should really be undertaken by a qualified electrician. East Sussex, West Sussex and other areas across the UK are covered by excellent, skilled electricians, but in order to choose the right one from the vast amount available, there are a few key things to consider.
Firstly, pick a shortlist - don't just settle on one and be done with it. Choose maybe three or four and put them all through the same rigorous routine.
Quotes: ask them to provide their best quotes for the work. Be clear about what it is you want done, and what you expect of them. Ask them to provide the quote in writing, alongside what they are actually intending to provide for the money; by gaining written confirmation of the specification, you can have proof that what they quoted for is what they must do.
References: ask for two or three references. Scrap any electricians who won't provide them, as this could be a sign of untrustworthiness. An electrician who has done good work and has nothing to hide shouldn't hesitate in giving them.
Industry bodies: check the electrician is registered with one of the following organisations - ELECSA, NAPIT, BSI, BRE or NICEIC. Those who are fully qualified to undertake electrical work, and who have the experience and skills to do so well should be listed on the register of one of these bodies. If not, consider whether or not you really want to hand over your hard-earned cash to them.
Once you have picked an electrician you are happy with, agree a firm timetable of work (and again, ask for confirmation in writing before going any further) in addition to an expected completion date.
Agree the terms of payment up front, to ensure you can allocate the right amount of your financial budget to the work, and do not be put off if the electrician asks for staged payments - they may require these in order to procure materials or for larger jobs.
Lastly, try not to deal in cash as it is not as easy to keep track of. If you pay by cheque or card, it's much easier to reclaim any cash, should something go wrong.
Also, be sure to ask for a receipt for monies paid, and a statement of your account, detailing what has been paid and when; in addition to any later payments, when these are due, and the total amount payable for the work carried out.
