.2210061249550.jpg)
Scams to Watch for When Choosing an Electrician
Usually, when homeowners decide they want to upgrade their homes, or need to fix something electrical in their home, they search the internet for people who can do the job for them. The internet gives people access to many resources, including reputable electricians with years of experience.
There are many trustworthy electricians out there just waiting on your call for help. Unfortunately, sometimes, you may come across electricians or companies that provide electrical services that may not have your best interest in mind when you hire them for your electrical needs. While this isn’t always the case, our experienced and knowledgeable electricians at Centennial Plumbing, Heating & Electrical want to help you protect your investment and identify when you may not be getting the help you need.
You can easily identify common electrician scams using the tips in this blog. Keep reading for more information.
They Ask for Payment Upfront
It’s standard practice for most licensed professionals to ask for a security deposit for their services. However, it’s not common practice for an electrician to demand upfront payment before any work is done. You may be asked to pay for a supply fee along with your security deposit, but no more than that.
When you’ve decided that you want to keep your electrician to complete the job you’ve requested, you should be able to either be sent an invoice at the end or even given the opportunity to pay in installments (this is on a case by case basis and depends on the electrical contractor). Providing payment in installments allows you to build trust on both ends of the deal you and your contractor made.
How to Avoid This Scam
We suggest that before you hire a contractor for your project, that you make sure they are properly trained and licensed. You can check references, search for reviews, check their BBB (Better Business Bureau) rating if they have one, and cross-reference at least three estimates to ensure the best work for the best price.
Recommending a Complete Rewire
Completely rewiring your home is a big red flag. If you hire a contractor that suggests you rewire your home for reasons like your home isn’t up to code, or your wiring is a safety risk and urges you to completely rewire, don’t be so hasty to go along with this new information.
Some shady electricians will urge you to do this to avoid an electrical fire, but this isn’t necessary. A trustworthy contractor shouldn’t rush you into a panic, which will allow them to gauge the price of the project you’ve asked them to complete.
How to Avoid This Scam
To avoid this scam, simply get a second or third opinion from a trusted contractor with good ratings. Always check multiple sources before going through with a job, your home may not need to be rewired, and you can find the true source of your electrical problems without breaking the bank.
Communication Through Emails Only
Not much says “scam” like not having any other means of communication with your electrician besides emails. When you’re searching for a contractor, you always want to call them and schedule a consultation. Even if you initially contact them through email, a reputable contractor will call you once they have your information to schedule a consultation.
How to Avoid This Scam
Always call your potential contractor and schedule an appointment for your electrical service. Even if you communicated with them through emails, you should still have a phone number for reference and can request for them to call you directly.