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How to Select the Right Professional for Electrical Repair in Springfield VA

Vance Electric • Jul 31, 2023

Hiring a professional for electrical repair needs is a smart choice. Locate a quality professional by using these helpful tips.

Did you know that in 2022, there were 690,050 electricians employed by electrical companies? The numbers do not reflect self-employed professional electricians, so the overall number is much higher.


Choosing a professional electrician can be a daunting task, especially when you don't know what to expect or what to ask. With so many electricians in the business today, how do you know you're hiring someone qualified?


Different types of work, like residential vs. commercial electrical repair, could require an electrician with a specialized skill set. You want someone who will deliver the service and expertise you expect. 



There are some general tips to remember when interviewing electricians. Read on as we show you how to select the right professional for your electrical repairs.

Understanding Your Electrical Repair Needs

Most don't think about our electrical systems until something stops working. However, when something stops working, you need to know what type of repairs you might need to be ready to speak with a professional electrician about.

Here is a list of the most common electrical repair issues:


  • Electrical Wiring Issues
  • Replacement or Installation
  • Fixtures
  • Outlets
  • Switches
  • Circuit Breakers and Panels
  • Lighting and Ceiling Fans
  • Electrical Components
  • Smoke detectors
  • Carbon monoxide detectors
  • Security system set-ups
  • Thermostats
  • Appliances 
  • Stoves
  • Refrigerators
  • Generators


If you notice issues with any of these electricity-driven products, get them fixed or replaced right away. Unknown sources of problems can eventually lead to blown fuses or, worse, electrical-related fires.

Only Hire Licensed Contractors

If you require any electrical repair, replacement, lighting, generator, or other services, it's best to get a master electrician and licensed electrical contractor to handle it.


Safety is always a top priority when hiring a licensed electrician. Every year, thousands of people get electrocuted in the US. Each state has education requirements, plus mandatory years of on-job-training to become a licensed electrician.


Plus, it's illegal to do certain types of electrical work if the person doesn't have a license.



If you hire someone who isn't licensed and a fire results, your property insurance won't cover it. You may also get sued for the person's medical treatment if they aren't insured.

Ask for Recommendations

The first step to finding the best electrician service is research. There are several methods you can use to research local electrician services. They include the following resources:


Personal References


Sometimes, the people you know have the best recommendations for professional services. Personal references are often the key to finding people who do respectable electrical work at electric repair costs that won't empty your bank account. 


Search Engines


You've probably heard the saying, "Google is your friend." Well, it's true. If you're looking for a licensed contractor, searching Google using the right keywords will provide you with electricians in your area. 


For example, if your business facility has a broken generator, you can search for residential or commercial electricians that work on generators. Or if you know the generator is beyond repair, you can include the manufacturer and enter "Generac Dealer Springfield, VA."


Your search will also include dealers with professional electricians for installation and repairs.


Review Websites


Once you've searched websites online, check out their reviews. Often, local businesses have Google Business Profiles. These profiles provide pertinent information about the company, including its website, location, phone number, and reviews.


With one click, you get to see all the prior customers' reviews on Google about the business. You can also get insights into their customer service because business owners can respond to the reviews.


From there, you can decide whether to visit the website.


Check Local Directories


Local service directories are a great way to find a good licensed contractor. You can see reviews from actual clients.


They provide an opportunity to receive responses from local electrical repair businesses and independent contractors.


Interested contractors will contact you via the app.


Some also have guides and rating systems for electric repair costs. 


Get Answers to the Right Questions


All of the above tools are great resources. Still, only you can get answers to the questions relating to the electrical work you need to be done. If someone had an electrician to repair a water heater, it doesn't mean they can fix a broken generator.

 

You'll need to ask if the person can fix a commercial generator.


It's also important to know how long ago they used the person and whether they work for an electrical company that does commercial work. Most importantly, you want to know if they are a licensed contractor.


Personal Referrals


Ask your contacts if they are willing to reach out to a professional electrician they've recently had do work for them.


Sometimes, personal referrals can reduce the tension when talking to a licensed contractor about work you need to get done.



Assuming they have a great relationship with the person referring them, there could be incentives for taking on your job.

Workmanship, Dependability, and Professionalism

No one wants a service person to bring bad energy into their place of business. You are already upset that you are experiencing unexpected electrical problems. It's even worse if the operating budget isn't set up for an expensive electric repair cost.


Choosing a licensed contractor that has exceptional workmanship, is dependable, and is professional is a win, win, win solution. 


During the initial contact, pay attention to whether the person answering the phone was polite. Make a list of important questions to ask. Notate whether your questions were answered to your satisfaction.



Also, pay attention to if the electrician arrived on time or if they called to let you know they were running late. After the inspection, did they give you a written estimate and offer to schedule the electrical repair?

Do You Have a Broken Generator?

Generators are great to have when severe weather causes a power outage. It's best to fix a broken generator at the first sign of trouble. If an electrical repair is not the solution, we are also a Generac Dealer in Springfield, VA.



Vance Electric always strives to deliver great experiences. Contact us today for your commercial generators, water pumps, and more.

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