Guides / Inside and systems
Hiring an electrician
Electrical mistakes can cause fires and injuries, so this is one area where licensing and permits matter most.
What to know
- Licensed electricians
- Most states require electricians to be licensed. Look up the license before hiring.
- Permits and inspections
- Panel upgrades, new circuits, and most rewiring require permits and inspections. They protect you and matter when you sell.
- Panel upgrades and EV chargers
- Ask for a load calculation before upgrading a panel or adding a high-power circuit.
- Line items
- Quotes should list materials, permit fees, patching of walls and any utility coordination.
Questions to ask the contractor
- Will you pull the permit and be there for the inspection?
- Did you calculate the load for this upgrade?
- Who patches and paints any wall openings?
Where to check
- Your state electrical board
- License lookups and permit requirements.
General information for US homeowners. Licensing, permit, contract and deposit rules vary by state and city, so check your local requirements. This isn't legal advice, and Stretch Nickels More isn't paid by any contractor, trade group or company mentioned here.