Pitfalls to Avoid While Choosing Electrical Contractors For Your Commercial Buildings
Commercial buildings are complex structures that require a lot of electrical work. Therefore, choosing the right electrical contractors for the job is so important. Unfortunately, many business owners make common mistakes when choosing contractors, leading to costly and time-consuming problems.
This post will discuss the most common pitfalls of choosing commercial industrial electrical contractors in Mesa.
1) Hiring The Lowest Bidder
Common mistake owners make hiring the electrical contractor with the lowest bid. While getting a reasonable price is necessary, the lowest bidder is not always the best option. Choosing the contractor for commercial electrical in Mesa with the lowest bid can often lead to problems and cost overruns. Make sure to vet all contractors carefully before making a decision.
2) Not Choosing the Right Electrician For a Specific Project
When looking for an electrician, it is important to find one specializing in the type of project you need. Commercial buildings need different electrical works like wiring, installing new outlets, repairing or replacing old ones.
You wouldn’t want to hire a residential electrician for a commercial project as they are not qualified and might not have the proper licenses.
Before starting your search, you should list what specific electrical works need to be done. It will help you find an electrician that is a good fit for your project.
For example, if you want LED installation in Mesa, you must call for a contractor specializing in it. Choosing the wrong electrician could result in a poor job that might not meet building codes, putting your business at risk.
It could also lead to injuries or accidents due to electrical problems.
3) Not Checking an Electrician’s Credentials
When you have found an electrician that seems like a good fit for your project, it is essential to check their credentials.
You wouldn’t want to hire someone who is not licensed or insured, as it could be costly if something goes wrong. So be sure to ask for the electrician’s license number and confirm that they are insured. In addition, you can ask for references from other clients to get an idea of their work.
Checking an electrician’s credentials will give you peace of mind knowing that your project is in good hands.
You can verify the license from the contractor’s board to make sure it is up to date. Hiring an unlicensed electrician is risky and not worth the savings.
It is essential to check if the electrician has any complaints against them. You can do this by searching online or calling the Better Business Bureau.
4) Not Getting a Written Contract
Once you have chosen an electrician, get a written contract before any work starts.
The contract should include the scope of work, timeline, and cost. It will protect both you and the electrician in case of any disagreements.
A written contract will also give you peace of mind knowing everything is taken care of.
For example, if the electrician needs to purchase materials, the contract should state who is responsible for paying for them. In addition, if there are any changes to the scope of work, the contract should be updated accordingly.
Ensure you understand everything in the final contract before signing it. If there is anything you’re unsure about, ask the electrician to explain it
5) Not Checking References
Before calling an electrician, be sure to check their references.
Ask for at least three references from previous clients and call them.
Find out if the electrician was on time, finished the job on schedule, and if they were happy with the work.
You should ask if there were any problems during or after the job.
If an electrician is reluctant to give you references, that is a red flag, and you should look elsewhere.
6) Not Negotiating the Contract
One of commercial building owners’ biggest mistakes is not negotiating their electrical contractor contract. It can cost more in the future, so it’s important to take the time to sit down with your contractor and negotiate a fair contract for both parties.
7) Not Checking the Quality of Equipment and Parts
Another mistake is assuming that all equipment and parts used by your electrical contractor are of the highest quality. It is not always the case, so it’s essential to ask to see proof of quality before signing on the dotted line.
Final Words
Commercial properties are a significant investment, and the electrical system is a vital part of that investment. Therefore, choosing an electrical contractor with the experience, qualifications, and commitment to quality is essential to ensure a project is completed correctly and on time.
