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-   -   Finding and talking to electricians (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=406020)

  • Oct 14, 2009, 03:05 PM
    zelo68
    Finding and talking to electricians
    I'm trying to locate electricians in my area (Vancouver, WA) for a few home projects and I don't know what to ask about as far as qualifications/licensing, etc. So I have two questions:

    1. Are there a list of questions I should ask of any electrician to make sure he/she does quality work?

    2. In an effort to sound less like an idiot, what information should I be able to provide for them to estimate my project(s)? (e.g. I'm trying to add 240v circuit outside for a spa to a panel I think is maxed.)

    Thanks
  • Oct 14, 2009, 03:21 PM
    ballengerb1

    Are you bonded, do you have insurance, can you give me the name and address of your last 5 customers in the area, have you ever been sued or has a complaint been made regarding your work? Just for starters
  • Oct 14, 2009, 05:45 PM
    Missouri Bound
    Ask for references first... I doubt they will answer any questions regarding legal issues or complaints. Word of mouth by far is the most important resource to you. They will have a proof of insurance certificate for you.
  • Oct 14, 2009, 05:53 PM
    hkstroud

    Ask if he will pull a permit. Permit means inspection. That way you will know it is done properly. He will probably charge you more. Don't worry too much most people really are honest.
  • Oct 14, 2009, 06:05 PM
    KISS

    Your box may not be maxed. The amperage of the breakers don't have to add up to the amperage of the panel. Twin breakers (2 breakers in the space of 1) can potentially create that one space you need.

    Service upgrades and/or sub-panels may be an option.
  • Oct 14, 2009, 06:45 PM
    ballengerb1

    Square D, Siemens and others make a sub panel kit with a 60 amp GFCI just for your situation. It would not fit in most existing panels. SpaGuts
  • Oct 14, 2009, 06:50 PM
    Fr_Chuck

    They will want to know of course the type of spa, the amp draw of the unit.

    Also get them to provide copies of their insurance and workers comp

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