What to Look for in a London Electrician

You don´t have to look far to find an electrician in London, but you do need to do a little research if you want to be sure of engaging a skilled electrician who will do a quality job at a reasonable price. Only consider using someone who can give the right answers to the following questions:

What qualifications do you have?

Safety, for yourself and your property, must come first where any electrical work is involved so only use a London electrician who is properly qualified. Be suspicious of anyone who seems vague about the details of their training.

Qualifications are especially important if you are looking for an electrician to work in a shop, office, hotel or other business premises. The law requires all electrical equipment in commercial premises to be regularly inspected and tested. If you allow someone who does not have the correct British Standards and NIC standards certification to do this work, it could be you who ends up in trouble.

What is your call–out fee?

The answer should be ´Nothing!´ Reputable London electricians will give you a free, no obligation, written quotation after thoroughly discussing the work that you want them to do. You should know exactly how much the job will cost before it starts – with no hidden extras.

Have you done this type of job before?

Electrical work can involve anything from connecting a household appliance to completely rewiring a large commercial building. Some electricians in London only have a narrow range of experience. If you want a complex lighting system installed in your garden, or someone to supply a Home Buyers Electrical Report, make sure the person you choose is competent to do it properly.

When can you start the job?

If the answer is something like ´Next Monday, or it might be Thursday …´ it´s time to look elsewhere. You should also ask for a firm estimate of how long the job will take to complete. It might suit the electrician to spread a two-day job over five days, but it´s no help to you if you have to take time off from your own work or re-arrange your business schedule.

A reliable London electrician who is proud of his good reputation will turn up anywhere in the city at the agreed time, work quickly and tidily, and cause as little disruption as possible.

Can you supply references?

Professional electricians will have no hesitation in showing you checkable testimonials from satisfied customers who can vouch for the quality of previous work. As a further safeguard, if you have any concerns about allowing a stranger into your home, look for someone who has been CRB checked.

Choosing the wrong electrician can lead to expensive and time-consuming problems. In the worst cases, in can be positively dangerous! Always ask questions, and find a London electrician who can answer them all to your satisfaction.