Electrical Contractors Jacksonville NC install and troubleshoot electrical systems. They also provide design input and implement major installations and upgrades project plans.
Performing electrical work involves reading documentation, making quick measurement calculations and conversions on the fly, and adhering to regulations. It also requires a high level of skill and precision.
Electrical contractors work with complex and potentially dangerous equipment. Whether they’re wiring an entire building or simply replacing an outlet, they need to be able to focus on the task at hand while maintaining a high level of professionalism and caution. This requires a certain amount of stamina and an ability to complete long hours of work. It also helps to have excellent attention to detail, as even the slightest error while working with electricity could be very dangerous for both themselves and others around them.
Unlike electricians, who are typically hired for individual tasks on residential and commercial projects, electrical contractors are often involved in the planning stage of major construction projects. They provide input on the constructability of designs and deliver computerized plans for approval, as well as manage the project budget and schedule to help ensure everything stays on track.
As an additional responsibility, electrical contractors must adhere to state safety regulations and may be responsible for supervising apprentices. They are also exposed to a variety of occupational hazards, such as electrical shock or electrocution, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), back injuries, slips and falls, and automobile-related incidents. They need to have strong manual dexterity to handle tools like insulated pliers and wire strippers, as well as good strength for lifting and carrying heavy objects.
Another important part of their job is to communicate with clients and co-workers. This involves sharing expectations and communicating clearly to everyone involved in the project. It’s also helpful for them to be able to work well with other specialty contractors and general contractors, so they can collaborate effectively on the project at hand.
The requirements for becoming an electrical contractor vary by jurisdiction, but most include a journeyman license and at least 4 years of experience working on electrical construction or installation. They must also pass an exam and pay a fee, and may have to continue their education or training in order to maintain their credentials. Some states don’t have licensing requirements, but those who do must renew their licenses on a regular basis – usually every 1 to 3 years – to keep up with the latest changes in the industry.
License
After you’ve completed your education and on-the-job training, it’s time to apply for your license. This process varies by state, but typically requires an application fee, an exam, and proof of experience. Some states also require an interview and background check before issuing a license. Depending on the type of work you plan to do, you may need a separate license for each job site. You may also need to register your business as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation.
There are different types of electrical contractor licenses, depending on the scope of your work. You may need a general license to perform commercial, industrial or residential electrical work. Other types of licenses are specific to substations, back-up power, security systems and voice/data cabling. The amount of time required to meet the licensing requirements varies by state, but 8,000 hours is typical. Some of this time can be counted as power lineman work or related educational coursework.
In addition to meeting state licensing requirements, you must pass an exam and submit financial information based on the size of jobs you will bid on. Some states also require a trade and business exam.
To get a license in New York, you must complete the following steps:
You can prepare for the electrical contractor license exam by attending an electrician school. These classes are taught by experienced teachers and cover the topics tested on the exam. You will receive personalized instruction and feedback on your answers to practice questions. You can also sign up for an online study program. These programs are designed to help you pass the exam on your first attempt.
Once you have your license, you can begin performing electrical services for customers. Depending on your expertise and industry, finding customers can be done through local advertising or by networking with other licensed contractors. You can also sign up for a membership in a professional association. This organization will connect you with potential customers and provide resources to improve your business. In addition, many memberships offer a discount on the cost of an electrical contractor license.
Warranty
When choosing an electrical contractor, it’s important to find one that offers a warranty on their work. This provides additional peace of mind for clients and shows that the contractor is confident in their abilities. The warranty should be clearly written and cover all aspects of the job. Typically, a one year warranty covers workmanship and materials used for new installations. Repairs and replacements of lamps, ballasts, and other parts are considered to be repairs and covered for 30 days.
Many contractors will also offer extended warranties that run for a longer period of time. These warranties will cost more but will provide a higher level of protection. For instance, an extended warranty may include coverage for damage caused by accident, misuse, or theft. This is an excellent way to add value for clients and increase customer retention.
A warranty can be verbal or written, and it should be included in the contract with the client. A verbal warranty can be a promise to correct an issue or pay for a service call within a certain time frame. A written warranty will usually be in the form of a statement of guarantee and disclaimer. It will contain a one year limited warranty against defects in workmanship, and excludes any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
Most leading insurance companies offer a variety of commercial products to address the different risks faced by electrical contractors. They can help business owners select the best policies for their unique needs. For example, workers’ compensation coverage is an essential policy for electricians because it will cover medical costs and lost wages due to workplace injuries.
Insurance
Insurance is a necessity for many small business owners, and electrical contractors are no exception. The profession is often subject to requirements for carrying certain types of liability coverage, and the specialized risks associated with the field can create expensive insurance costs. Fortunately, there are options to help reduce these costs for electricians, including bundling multiple policies and negotiating discounts through providers like State Farm, NEXT Insurance, and others.
Most states require electrical businesses with employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover injuries that may occur on the job. General liability and commercial auto are common insurance policies for electricians, as well. Some states also require contractors to carry surety bonds or other forms of insurance as a condition for licenses and contracts.
In addition to standard property and general liability coverage, State Farm offers a variety of additional policies that can help electricians reduce their risk. For example, its business owner’s policy includes a complete property package and a completed operations policy to protect equipment and materials at work sites. Its umbrella policy, available in $1 million increments, can provide additional liability protection. Other optional add-ons include employment practices liability and professional liability.
For a newer option, NEXT Insurance offers bundled packages of liability and property coverage for electricians with a simple quoting process and potential cost savings. The company has been accredited with the Better Business Bureau since 2018 and is backed by insurer Munich Re. While the company is still a relatively new insurance provider, it has already earned an A rating with AM Best and has a good NAIC complaint index for its general liability product.
No matter what type of insurance is needed for an electrician business, it is important to review coverage limits on a regular basis and adjust them as the needs of the business evolve. It is also advisable to consult with an independent insurance agent or broker who can access the most competitive offerings for local, regional, and national insurance carriers and customize policies for specific risks. These professionals can act as long-term partners, helping to manage risks and control insurance costs over the life of a business.
