While there are countless reputable electrical services that you can trust without reservation, just like with any other industry, there are a few that might try to take advantage of consumers. As the service that they provide is critical, you’ll want to make completely sure that the service provider that you hire has your best interests at heart. If they’re only in it to make a quick buck, the chances are good that they will also cut corners somewhere else which could have fatal results.
To help you figure out how to know if an electrician is taking advantage of you, here are five warning signs that you might be taken for a ride.
If you want to learn more, check out our resources below:
1. How much does it cost to hire an electrician
2. How to choose the best electrician on the Sunshine Coast
3. Pros and cons of hiring an electrician
4. Hiring an electrician vs DIY
#1: They Charge a Huge Deposit
Charging a deposit before commencing any work isn’t the problem here. In fact, it’s common practice. However, it becomes an issue if the fee that must be paid upfront is large. In this case, there’s a risk that the service provider might simply collect the deposit never to return. Or, if you’re “lucky”, they might start the project but fail to complete it.
If the service provider does choose to ask for a down payment, it’s usually about 25-30%. There’s nothing sinister about it, and this amount is typically used to cover some of the material cost. It can also give the service provider a degree of protection or assurance that they will indeed get paid. If you feel uneasy about the upfront payment that you’re being charged, you can also check the local regulations. In many states, this amount may be capped.
#2: They Don’t Include a Warranty
In the home improvement industry, it’s common practice for tradesmen, to offer some type of warranty on the work completed. After all, if the job was completed satisfactorily, there shouldn’t be a need to call them again soon. So, most professionals are actually comfortable offering a warranty on their workmanship, and it’s one of the pros of hiring an electrician over doing it yourself.
If the service provider refuses to include some form of warranty, it could be an indication that they lack confidence in their own skill. In short, it’s a case of putting your money where your mouth is. If they’re serious about delivering a professional service, they will offer their clients protection in the event that they are unhappy with the results.
#3: They Lack Necessary Documentation
Electrical work requires specialized skills. Not only is the work technical, but it’s also dangerous. If you don’t know what you’re doing, there can be catastrophic consequences.
It’s key that the electrician you want to hire is licensed. In fact, to carry out any electrical work in Queensland, you must be in possession of an appropriate electrical work and contractor license. It’s the law. Plus, for most fixture installs, from power points to solar, you can void the manufacturer’s warranty if it’s installed by an unlicensed electrician.
In addition to licensing, insurance is just as important. If they should get injured on the job, you could be held liable for the costs when adequate insurance is not in place. And, when you’re dealing with a dishonest electrician, there’s a possibility that this could be part of their scam.
#4: Their Communication Is Unclear
While it can be difficult to follow what needs to happen when you’re, for example, installing a ceiling fan or conducting an electrical repair, it’s even more difficult to figure out how to know if an electrician is taking advantage of you. In fact, some of these scam tradesmen might even use the technical nature of their work in their favor.
On the other hand, the best electricians will be able to explain the process in such a way that you’ll understand. Plus, if you have any further questions, they will also be willing to elaborate on their explanation.
This also applies to the timeline. Professionals will ensure that they’ve given you an estimate for how long the project will take and try to stick to these deadlines.
#5: Their Quotes Change
In addition to confusing verbal communication, you could also find that their written communication isn’t much better. If the service provider plans on ripping you off, they might initially give you a very cheap estimate only to change it down the line and write it off to unforeseen problems. You’ve most likely already paid a substantial deposit, which means that if you choose to abandon the project now, you’ll lose that sum and be stuck with a half completed project.
To help prevent this from happening, it’s best to work with electrical services who offer free, no-obligation quotes. Then, you should also get everything in writing. If they try to dodge this, take it as a sign that they’re not the one for the job and continue your search.
Turn to DYFA Electrical for honest service time after time
In many instances, homeowners delay tackling a home improvement job, like switching to solar, because finding an honest service provider that they can count on is too challenging. You might be worried that you get overcharged, dreading the mess afterwards, or worrying that the results won’t meet your expectations.
This is understandable, but don’t let those worries stand in your way of upgrades or essential maintenance work. Now that you know which warning signs to be on the lookout for, you can trust your instincts when it’s time to hire an electrical service.
The team at DYFA Electrical respects the trade and homeowners. That’s why we offer our clients a 100% price-beat guarantee and 100% quality and clean-up guarantee. Also, all our tradesmen are experienced, qualified, fully licensed, and police cleared. Our team will always place your needs first. We’ll work within budget and offer you written quotes or invoices with all the details.
Call us on 07 5472 4152 for more information about our services or complete this online enquiry form for a free quote today.
