Choosing the right electrician has gotten complicated with all the online reviews and marketing claims flying around. As someone who’s worked in the electrical trade throughout the Pacific Northwest, I learned everything there is to know about what separates reliable electricians from the rest. Today, I’ll share it all with you.
Check Credentials First
Probably should have led with this section, honestly — licensing is non-negotiable. Washington requires electricians to hold valid licenses issued by the Department of Labor & Industries. Oregon has similar requirements. Ask for license numbers and verify them online before hiring anyone.
Unlicensed work creates liability issues, often violates code, and can void your insurance coverage if something goes wrong.
Experience Matters More Than You’d Think
That’s what makes years in the trade endearing to us — experience teaches things you can’t learn from books. Ask about specific project types similar to yours. An electrician who’s done hundreds of panel upgrades handles complications better than someone doing their tenth.
Get Real Recommendations
Personal referrals from friends, family, and neighbors carry more weight than anonymous online reviews. When someone you trust had a good experience, that’s meaningful. Online reviews can be gamed; your neighbor’s honest opinion can’t be.
Insurance Is Essential
General liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage protect you if something goes wrong. Ask for certificates and verify coverage with the insurance company directly. An uninsured contractor is a lawsuit waiting to happen.
Communication Signals Quality
How they respond to your initial contact reveals a lot. Do they return calls promptly? Explain things clearly? Show up when scheduled? Good communication usually correlates with good workmanship. Poor communication typically signals problems ahead.
Get Multiple Estimates
Three quotes give you a sense of fair pricing and scope. The lowest bid isn’t always best — sometimes it means cut corners or missed scope. Unusually high bids may indicate lack of interest or efficiency issues. The middle range usually reflects honest pricing.
Written Agreements Protect Everyone
Any significant project needs a written contract specifying scope, timeline, payment terms, and warranty coverage. Verbal agreements become he-said-she-said disputes. Written contracts keep everyone honest and provide recourse if problems arise.
