5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Electrician in Vancouver
Upgrading your home’s electrical panel, installing an EV charger, or putting in new lighting? There are lots of contractors to choose from, but how do you know who’s reliable and safe?
Here are 5 simple questions to guide your decision:
1. Are you licensed and insured?
Licensing ensures the work follows BC electrical codes, and insurance protects you and the workers if something goes wrong. A licensed, insured team (like ours at Kraken) gives you peace of mind knowing the work is safe and compliant.
2. Who will be doing the work?
Some contractors send different crews each time or use subcontractors. It’s helpful to have a consistent team you know will be on-site - at Kraken, we always handle our own projects so you know exactly who’s doing the work.
3. What experience do you have with projects like mine?
Whether it’s smart home wiring, EV chargers, or panel upgrades, you want someone who’s done similar work before. Experience means fewer surprises and smoother installation — our team has handled projects like these across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Be sure to ask your electrician what past experience they have, and if they have any suggestions for your specific scenario.
4. How do you handle permits and inspections?
Improper permitting can cause safety issues, fines, or future headaches. A reliable contractor will manage all permits and inspections, ensuring the work passes code the first time. At Kraken Electric, we take care of all permits and make this part seamless for homeowners.
PRO TIP:
Ask for a quick walkthrough after the job so you know what was done and how everything works. A good electrician will make sure you understand everything about your new panel, lighting, etc.
5. What is your timeline, and will I lose power?
Electrical projects can be disruptive. Knowing how long it will take and what parts of your home might be without power helps you plan. We give realistic timelines and communicate clearly about any outages so there are no surprises. In addition, we will provide a backup generator for any outages that will go beyond 12 hours, so you can continue your daily life without disruptions.
Bottom line: Asking these questions helps you hire confidently, avoid surprises, and keep your home safe. Choosing a contractor who handles the work themselves, stays consistent, and communicates clearly makes a big difference.