
How to Make Sure Your Electrician Is Doing the…
Electricians in Dulwich:
Hiring an electrician isn’t just about finding someone who knows how to connect wires. It’s about trusting someone with the safety, functionality, and reliability of your home or business’s electrical system. But if you’re not an expert yourself, how do you know whether the electrician you hired is doing a good job?
You don’t need to be an electrician in Dulwich to assess the basics. There are several key things anyone can watch for to make sure the work is being done properly, safely, and to a professional standard.
Understanding the Scope of Work
Before any wires are touched, a professional electrician should provide a clear scope of work. This involves explaining what they will do, the materials to be used, the duration of the job, and the total cost. If someone starts work without a plan or refuses to explain what they’re doing, that’s a red flag.
What you should look for:
- A written or clearly explained quote.
- A timeline with realistic expectations.
- An explanation of the changes or repairs being made.
Proper Licensing and Certification
Electricians must be licensed and, in many places, certified. This ensures they’ve received proper training and understand the codes and safety standards. Ask to see a license. A qualified professional won’t hesitate to show you.
Why it matters:
- It protects you legally and financially.
- It reduces the risk of code violations or unsafe installations.
Adherence to Electrical Codes
Every region has building codes that electricians must follow. These are legal standards to make sure electrical systems are safe and functional. If an electrician takes shortcuts or ignores codes, it can lead to serious hazards, including fire risk.
How to check:
- Verify if the work will be completed in accordance with local codes.
- Ensure they’re arranging necessary inspections for large jobs.
- Be wary if they tell you an inspection “isn’t needed” when major work is being done.
Clean, Organised Wiring
Even if you don’t know how to wire a switch, you can tell when work is neat and clean. Good electricians leave their work organised: wires are tidy, labelled (when needed), and not bunched up or tangled. Sloppy wiring is often a sign of rushed or careless work, which can lead to future problems.
Signs of a good job:
- Wires are run in straight lines and secured properly.
- Electrical boxes aren’t overcrowded.
- Connections are covered and insulated.
Proper Use of Materials
A reliable electrician uses quality materials and tools. Cheap switches, undersized wires, or poor-quality connectors may save money now, but can cause failure or even pose a danger later.
Ask about:
- Brands or specifications of parts being used.
- Whether the parts are new and under warranty.
- The difference between what they’re using and cheaper alternatives.
Testing and Verification
A professional doesn’t just finish the job and leave. They test their work. Whether it’s checking voltage, confirming proper grounding, or testing circuits for overload, a responsible electrician makes sure everything is functioning properly before wrapping up.
You should expect:
- A walk-through or explanation of what was done.
- Demonstrations that outlets, lights, or appliances work as expected.
- Answers to your questions about how to use or maintain the system.
Respect for Safety
An electrician’s top concern should be safety—yours and theirs. If they’re working carelessly around live wires, not using proper protective equipment, or failing to turn off circuits when necessary, it’s a major red flag.
Watch for:
- Use of gloves, voltage testers, and insulated tools.
- Turning off the power before starting work.
- Securing wires and maintaining a safe area during and after the job.
Communication and Transparency
A good electrician doesn’t work in silence. They should be able to explain what they’re doing in simple terms and keep you informed throughout the job. If something unexpected arises, they should notify you and explain your options.
Be concerned if:
- They refuse to answer your questions.
- They’re vague or defensive when asked for details.
- They try to pressure you into quick decisions or upsells.
Work That Holds Up
One of the most reliable signs of a good electrician is that the work holds up over time. If you find yourself needing follow-up repairs, dealing with flickering lights, or frequently noticing tripped breakers, it may indicate that the work was not done properly.
Prevent this by:
- Asking about warranties or guarantees.
- Getting everything in writing.
- Checking references or reviews before hiring.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be an expert to tell if an electrician is doing the job right—you need to know what to look for. Focus on the basics: clear communication, safety, code compliance, and clean, tested work. Trust your instincts. If you have any concerns related to an electrician, meet our experts at Ohmatic Electrical LTD.
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