How to Choose the Best Electrical Contractor

Whenever you invite a service contractor into your home or business, it’s important to ensure you can trust them and that they have a strong reputation in the community. Finding the right electrician in O’Fallon MO starts with some research that involves looking into their services, background, licensing and experience. Once you have narrowed down your choices, you can start calling a few to get quotes and eventually settle on a reputable electrical contractor that will have your best interests at heart.

Here are some tips on how you can choose the best electrical contractors in St. Louis and beyond.

Ask About Licensing and Insurance

A licensed contractor will have gone through all the necessary courses and practical work to become licensed by the state to perform electrical jobs safely and efficiently. It also means they have kept up with all the necessary licensing requirements, which assures you they are in good standing with the state.

Still, you shouldn’t take anyone’s word for it. Always ask to see proof of license, while making sure it’s current and covers the type of work you need done. Also, don’t forget to ask about Insurance, which is necessary to protect both parties in the event an accident occurs on your property.

Get a Few Estimates

Gather at least three before making a decision on an electrician, which will provide you with a wide range of prices and abilities. Get those estimates in writing and make sure you understand each line item. This is the time to ask any questions you may have. Don’t just snag the one with the lowest price. This could signal sub-par service, lack of license, or hidden fees you could get surprised with later. Middle of the road is usually best.

Ask About Experience

Experience matters. You don’t want to choose someone who just set up shop yesterday. You want to see that they’ve been in business in the same area for a few years at least, which establishes their credibility. Keep an eye out for a Master Electrician, who has more experience and training, while offering warranties on workmanship and adhering to the highest standards of workmanship and electrical safety.

Be on the lookout for contractors that have experience with or are accredited in energy efficiency as it relates to energy-saving products and technologies.

Get Recommendations and Read Reviews

Ask friends and family who they have used as an electrician in the past. Were they satisfied with the quality of the work? Would they hire them again? Look at reviews on the contractor’s website, but also head to sites like Google and Yelp to get more. While personal recommendations are best, you can’t discount the reviews of people online who have used the service and can provide feedback.

Personality Match

Demeanor and attitude are important in any contractor you choose. In the end, you want to feel comfortable with the contractor, which means a good personality match is just as important as certifications and experience. Look for an electrician who is friendly and accommodating as well as skilled in their industry. If you don’t have a good gut feeling about someone, move on.

Responsiveness

When you call the contractor, do they return your calls quickly or are you left hanging for days? Is the support staff friendly? Was the contractor on time for the estimate or did they make excuses? Ultimately, you want to choose a contractor that shows up when they say they will, in uniform, that provides fast, reliable and safe service while also respecting your time and home.

Contact Braco Electrical and Contracting in O’Fallon MO

If you really want to see what makes a great electrical contractor, contact us at 636-294-8562. Established in 2013, we are a family owned and operated electrical contracting business serving home and business owners throughout the St. Louis area with licensed and insured electrical services.