Without the proper training, skill and knowledge, an electrician can do more harm than good. When it comes to things like installing live wires behind your wall, poorly executed electrical work can be dangerous. When you need to hire an electrician, it is well worth doing your research to ensure you receive safe, expertly carried out services.

Unless you’re changing a lightbulb, it’s best to get an expert to help. Here are some things to consider when hiring an electrician to ensure the electrical system in your home or business functions properly.

Electrical work is complex and often dangerous, requiring a high level of practical and theoretical knowledge to competently carry out. Ensure any electrician you hire is properly qualified. To become an electrician in New Zealand, you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain either of these:

●National Certificate in Electrical Engineering – Electrician for Registration (Level 4)

●National Certificate in Electricity Supply – Electrician (Level 4)

Alternatively, you can complete the requirements of the time-based pathway, which involves registering with The Electrical Workers Registration Board and having a current practising licence. This requires completing and passing examinations for the electrician class of registration.

It’s essential to ensure the electrician you choose is licenced, which is a guarantee that the contractor has the necessary experience and knowledge to carry out work compliantly. Always ask to see their licence and do a check if possible. You should also ask them if they carry all the necessary insurances, which you should also ask for copies of.

Qualified electricians must be accepted by a local authority such as the Electrical Contractors Association of NZ (ECANZ). To be accepted, they must go through a strict auditing process to ensure compliance with the highest standards. Once accepted, they are bound to strict codes of conduct to mitigate risks ensure work is safely carried out.

A recommendation from a person you trust is always great when choosing a tradesperson or service. When a family member or friend has had a good experience with an electrician and are happy with both the service and workmanship, it’s a good endorsement. It’s even better if you can see the results yourself.

If you can’t manage to get recommendations from people you know, you can always look at reviews online on their website or on Google, Facebook, True Local and more. You can also ask electricians for testimonials or referees.

Don’t get caught out paying excess charges, added costs and dealing with drawn out timeframes. Cost estimates should usually be provided for free and is a good insight for getting to know how an electrician works. Some can even offer quick quotes online.

Ensure you hire an electrician who provides a competitively priced service and can get the work done in a good timeframe. Less experienced electricians might make you wait before providing services, leaving you stuck with faults.

When you need quality, reliable electrical services in Christchurch, contact the experts! Christchurch Electrical can provide you with electrical work that is guaranteed to be safe, compliant and expertly carried out whether you need minor repairs or an entire home rewired.

Get in touch with our qualified electricians today for expert electrical services across Christchurch, available 24/7. For more information, call our team today on (03) 659 0611 or contact us online.