Be aware of the dangers of hiring cowboy electricians

(03/08/2010)

The ECA urges consumers to be aware of the dangers of hiring cowboy electricians. The ECA recommends taking the time to choose a qualified and trustworthy professional to carry-out any electrical work. Employing cowboy traders could mean consumers are left in the hands of an unregulated, often uninsured electrician. Cutting corners can result in unsafe electrical work that will be expensive to rectify and potentially dangerous if left undiscovered.

Follow the ECA’s seven-steps to employing a safe spark:

1. Don’t let the advert seduce you – Don’t just pick the first contractor you see advertised. Always investigate at least two, preferably three companies to compare costs and services. Remember, the cheapest option is not always the best.

2. Ask friends and neighbours for recommendations – It’s vital to meet any potential electrician in person so be sure to interview. Enquire about the length of time each electrician has been in business; ask for past customers as references; contact previous customers and ask if they were satisfied with the work.

3. Check for professional memberships – A registered member of a trade association such as the ECA will have had their skills independently assessed. Work by a trade association member will often be guaranteed, giving added security.

4. Ask for qualifications – Part P (of the Building Controls regulations) is there to protect you, so ask for an engineer who has been certified as a Competent Person.

5. Be assured – Make sure your contractor is insured for any damage, death or personal injury.

6. Know what you want – Be clear on exactly what work needs to be done, and why. Be sure to discuss any necessary work you may have missed in your brief.

7. Put it on paper – Draw up a contract specifying the work to be done, cost, payment schedule, start date and estimated completion date. Don’t be persuaded to pay upfront. While, up to the individual, a reputable electrician would never expect to be paid before the work is done.

ECA Group CEO, David Pollock, says that it’s not just a case of a few bad apples making the rest of the industry look bad, but that rogue tradesmen pose a real risk to consumers. “The public needs to ensure that they employ people who are qualified, competent and most importantly safe. At the very least, cowboy electricians rip-off customers and at worse there could be fatal consequences if work is not done properly or safely. We’re not trying to frighten people; we simply want the public to get the result their investments deserve.”

David Pollock adds: “If you’re looking for a qualified electrician, ask if they’re a member of the ECA – our members are committed to competence. To find one in your area, visit our website”.

Related categories:  Electrical installation   Residential