How to Choose the Right Electrician: Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Electrical work is one of those areas where getting the right professional matters. Unlike painting or simple DIY, the consequences of hiring the wrong electrician can be serious. Poor workmanship may not only cause faults but can also compromise safety, risk property damage, and invalidate insurance. With so many electricians available, knowing how to choose the right one can feel overwhelming. Asking the right questions before hiring ensures that you find someone qualified, reliable, and suited to your project.

Why choosing carefully matters

Electricity is unforgiving. Mistakes that might not be immediately visible can lead to shocks, fires, or long-term faults that cost far more to fix than the original job. A qualified electrician ensures work complies with the UK Wiring Regulations, provides certification where needed, and carries insurance to cover unexpected problems. Choosing the right person is not only about technical skill but also about trust, professionalism, and peace of mind.

Are you registered with a competent person scheme?

One of the first questions to ask is whether the electrician is registered with a competent person scheme such as NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA. Registration demonstrates that they meet strict standards and are regularly assessed to ensure their work remains compliant. Registered electricians can self-certify notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations, saving you time and hassle with building control. If an electrician is not registered, you may face additional paperwork and uncertainty about the quality of the work.

Can you provide certification and paperwork?

Electrical work often requires certification, especially when it involves new circuits, consumer unit replacements, or work in high-risk areas such as bathrooms. Asking an electrician whether they will provide the correct paperwork is essential. Certificates not only confirm that the work is safe but are also required when selling a property or making insurance claims. A professional electrician will be happy to explain what documentation is needed for your particular project and provide it once the job is complete.

Do you carry insurance?

Insurance is another key area. A reputable electrician should have both public liability insurance and, ideally, professional indemnity cover. This ensures that if something goes wrong, you are protected financially. Asking to see evidence of insurance is reasonable and provides reassurance that you are dealing with a responsible professional. Without insurance, you could be left liable for damage or injury caused by faulty work.

What experience do you have with this type of job?

Not all electricians specialise in the same type of work. Some focus on domestic projects, while others are more experienced in commercial or industrial environments. If you need a consumer unit upgrade, an electric vehicle charger, or full house rewiring, it makes sense to choose someone who has carried out similar work before. Asking for examples or references from past projects helps you understand their expertise and gives confidence that they can handle your requirements.

Can you provide a clear quotation?

Cost is always an important factor, but it should not be the only one. A professional electrician will provide a clear, written quotation outlining the scope of work, materials, and costs. This avoids misunderstandings and allows you to compare like for like when getting multiple quotes. Be cautious of very low prices, as they may indicate shortcuts or hidden extras. A good electrician will explain their pricing clearly and be transparent about potential additional costs if unexpected issues arise.

How do you handle safety and regulations?

Every qualified electrician should be working to the current edition of the UK Wiring Regulations (BS 7671). Asking how they stay up to date with regulation changes shows that you value compliance and safety. It is also worth asking whether they will carry out testing and inspection as part of the job, as this is crucial for confirming that installations are safe. A responsible electrician will have no problem explaining how they keep their work compliant and safe.

Do you have references or reviews?

In today’s world, online reviews and recommendations are invaluable. Many electricians are proud of their reputation and will be happy to provide references from previous clients. Speaking to someone who has hired them before or reading verified reviews gives a clear picture of reliability, punctuality, and professionalism. If an electrician is reluctant to share references, this could be a red flag.

What is your availability and timescale?

Electrical work often needs to be scheduled around other trades, particularly in renovations or new builds. Understanding an electrician’s availability and expected timescale helps you plan your project effectively. Reliable professionals will give you a realistic estimate and communicate clearly if delays arise. Establishing this upfront prevents frustration and ensures your project runs smoothly.

Conclusion

Hiring the right electrician is about more than finding someone who can do the job at the lowest price. It is about ensuring safety, compliance, and reliability. By asking questions about registration, certification, insurance, experience, and reputation, homeowners and businesses can make informed choices and avoid costly mistakes. A professional electrician will be transparent, confident in their abilities, and happy to answer your questions. Taking the time to choose carefully ensures your electrical work is safe, legal, and built to last.