Electrician Inner West - How to Choose

There is a little more involved in choosing the right electrician than simply tracking one down and paying them to get the job done. In fact, if you are careless about the tradie you hire, or you try do to electrical work yourself, you could end up causing an electrical fire or badly hurting someone.

To protect yourself, your family and your home, there are a few things you should consider when choosing an electrician.

What type of work you need done
Whether the electrician is licensed, insured, and registered as an electrical contractor
Where the electrician is located
How trustworthy and reliable he or she is
How much he or she will charge for the work

Type of Work that Needs an Electrician

Everyone knows that electricians repair and install electrical systems, but you may not know exactly what types of electrical work you need to call an electrician for.

In Australia, you are legally allowed to change light bulbs and operate appliances, but for almost anything else, you will need to find an electrician. This includes small jobs such as,

Installing power points
Changing plugs on electrical gadgets and appliances from overseas
Installing transformers
Repairing broken fittings

Even if the job is basic and you think you know what you are doing, you should really call an electrician. Do it yourself electrical work can be dangerous and could result in damage, fire, injury or even death, all things you will be liable for if you don’t use a qualified electrician.

A reputable electrician will work to the NSW electrical legislation, and to the standards set out in the Wiring Rules. (Australia Standard AS/NZS 3000:2007).

Finding the Right Electrician

For convenience, and to ensure you are not charged travel time look for a local electrician.
Make sure you get at least three quotes, more if possible. Not all electricians charge the same thing for similar work but the quotes should be similar. Also check out online reviews, but remember reviews can be faked, so do not believe everything you read.
Ask other contractors. If you are having a lot of work done and are dealing with other tradies, ask them if they can recommend a good electrician.
Ask to see a licence. A reputable electrician will have on problem showing you his or her licence, or with you checking up on them with the state authority.
Ask if you will receive a certificate of electrical safety. Legally, you should receive a safety certificate for any work that is done.

If an electrician refuses to show you his or her licence, or won’t give you a certificate, look for another electrician.