Electricity is a wonderful thing, giving power to everything we do. From Thomas Edison’s first bulb to society’s strong dependence on technological tools, electricity makes it possible. To harness this energy source, people depend upon the services of an electrical contractor.
While actual electricity comes from public utilities licensed by the states, it’s the electric contractor that installs or repairs equipment that provides electric power to your business. It’s imperative that electrical contractors be trained and licensed.
These are just a few of the things that access to electrical contractor information can help you do:
1. Set up an electrical contract to maintain consistent and safe power for an existing business
2. Hire commercial electrical contractors to set up new electrical systems when you open a business in a new building
3. Sub-contract with an electrical business to provide electrical systems if you’re in the construction industry
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Find an electrical contractor
If you're in the construction business, you often find subcontractors through referral from other contractors that you work with. This process also works for making an electrical contract.
I recommend: Get referrals for commercial and industrial electrical contractors from an electrical contractors association, like the National Electrical Contractors Association. Search through
NECA Connections or the
Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.
Check the paperwork
Electric contractors must have a license from state and/or local licensing authorities.
I recommend: Search for electrical contractor information from your state. States differ in licensing and permit requirements. For example,
Oklahoma requires that electrical contractors have five years of electrical work experience, including in commercial/industrial work. Licensed contractors must also carry a $5,000 bond and liability insurance.
Gain familiarity with electrical standards
No one is saying that you need to train as an electrician in your free time, but it makes sense to be familiar with electrical contractor information and understand electrical standards so that you know your business is meeting them.
I recommend: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (
OSHA) monitors safety information in the workplace. Along with the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc., both organizations set and follow-up on electrical work to make sure it meets or exceeds standards.
File permits
Electrical contractors may need to file permits for new work or for work over $300. Find out about required permits and verify their filing. If not, you may be the one receiving a fine.
I recommend: If you don’t know whom to ask about permits in your area, check with the
Permit Place.
Keep costs reasonable
Ask for a written estimate for all work done, but never pay until work is complete to your satisfaction. Ask questions about anything you don't understand. Since an electric contractor receiving payment by the hour with a minimum amount, you might want to bundle up jobs, if possible.
I recommend: Look for discounts in commercial electrical fixtures, too. Check out the commercial lighting fixtures at
Lighting Universe.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Consider getting a back-up generator if a power surge or power outage would cause significant problems for your business.
- Check out references for an electric contractor you are thinking of hiring before making an electrical contract.
- Make certain electric contractors have insurance. This is often a condition of licensure, but ask.
The official source of Electrical Contractors is
the Electrical Contractors page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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