Whether it’s adding a dimmer switch or installing a light fixture, many homeowners think electrical work is a DIY job. Not only is this a dangerous assumption, attempting your own electrical work can seriously harm both you and your home. As a homeowner in Edmonton, it is your responsibility to only hire a licensed electrician to perform any electrical work. By hiring a professional, you can ensure your project is done right the first time. Follow our tips to help you safely hire an electrician in Edmonton.
Proper Training and Licensing
In order to be a recognized electrician in Edmonton and Alberta in general, a pro must have specific certificates recognized by the Apprentice and Industry Training Act and Electrician Trade Resolution of Alberta. Before becoming a certified electrician, an apprentice will need to complete 4 years of training. Before you hire an electrician, be sure to ask them to provide proof of these certificates.
Types of Electricians
When it comes to types of electricians, there are two for hire in Edmonton. To legally work in the province of Alberta, an electrician must be one of the following:
Registered Apprentice
An apprentice is a student who is still learning how to be an electrician. Their apprenticeship will last for four years, during which time they will have to complete a minimum of 1560 hours of on-the-job training and 8 weeks of technical training in each of the first three years, and a minimum of 1440 hours of on-the-job training and 12 weeks of technical training in the fourth year. Once their apprenticeship is complete, they may then attempt to complete their final exam. If successful, they will be granted a Red Seal Endorsement and become a journeyperson.
Alberta-certified Journeyperson
A journeyperson is a fully trained electrician and has all the necessary certificates to do any residential electrical job. This means they will have the necessary certificates recognized by the Apprentice and Industry Training Act and Electrician Trade Resolution of Alberta. An electrician with a valid Red Seal certificate can work anywhere in Canada, including Edmonton, without any further training.
Tips for Hiring an Electrician
Electricity is as powerful as it is dangerous, which is why you only want to hire a fully trained and certified electrician to work with it. Be sure that no matter what company you’re thinking about hiring, you ask them about licensing. If an electrician refuses to provide proof of certification, do not hire them. There are plenty of other electricians in Edmonton who will be happy to help you out.
You can browse company profiles on HomeStars to get started with your research. Be sure to read reviews from past clients and look at the company’s Star Score and Verified badge. Companies with a Verified badge mean they have passed our rigorous background checks, including proper licensing. If you would like HomeStars to do the research for you, simply fill out a quote request form and we’ll send your project details to 3 electricians in Edmonton. From there, you can chat with each company and hire the one you feel most comfortable with.
Keep in mind that as a homeowner in Edmonton, it is your responsibility to only hire a certified electrician. Before you commit to hiring anyone, always ask to see proof of licensing. You can trust Red Seal endorsed electricians to safely perform electrical work in your home. When you’re ready to hire, use HomeStars to help you safely hire an electrician in Edmonton.
