Electricity is one of the most vital assets for every commercial building. It powers your operations and allows you to serve your customers, employees, and stakeholders. It impacts everything from your machines to technology, lighting to communications, and heating and air conditioning to your employees’ comfort and productivity. And when you need to undertake a project that affects the lifeblood of your building, only the best commercial electrician in Dallas Fort Worth will do.

That’s why choosing a commercial electrician for your projects isn’t a decision to take lightly. The electrician you hire can affect the entire outcome of your project. They must know about building codes to help you avoid fines, and they should put safety at the forefront to prevent risks to people and property. They should also have a good idea of what the project will cost and how long it will take. And last but not least, they should be able to deliver the desired results so that your business can continue thriving.

Here’s what you need to know about hiring a commercial electrician in Dallas Fort Worth so you can make an informed decision for your next project.

Commercial vs. Residential Electrician: What’s the Difference?

Before we get into specifics on hiring, there are a few significant differences between commercial and residential electricians worth noting. 

Some electricians cater to one type of customer or the other, while other companies offer both commercial and residential work. Commercial projects typically require a greater breadth and depth of experience, which is why you should work with someone who is experienced in commercial electrical work. Because of the unique needs of business facilities, such as different building code requirements, licensing needs, and challenges not usually found in the average home, commercial electricians have the right knowledge and know-how to make your project successful. 

As a general rule, electricians who cater to businesses are also excellent choices for homeowners. Because they handle the large-scale needs of a company, they’ve usually “seen it all” and can put that expertise to work in homes.

However, the reverse of this statement doesn’t hold the same truth. Those who work mostly on residential jobs may not have the skills and qualifications needed to handle larger commercial projects. 

When Do I Need a Commercial Electrician?

Indeed, some electrical jobs don’t need the expertise of an experienced commercial electrician. For example, you may be able to replace a small light fixture or install a new light without calling in an electrician. 

But keep in mind that the ones who attempt minor electrical work themselves are usually those who have some existing knowledge on how electricity works and have the tools and safety equipment they need to do the job. It’s not often an undertaking for the average do-it-yourself guru, and for a good reason: one wrong move and you could be putting your entire business at risk.

Commercial electrical services cover a wide range of projects, including the following:

• Lighting and electrical maintenance
• Cable or wire repairs and replacements
• Light fixture, socket, and switch installation
• Remodeling and rewiring services
• Generator installations
• Electrical safety inspections
• Datacenter installations
• Energy-efficient lighting projects
• Parking lot lighting projects
• Timer and sensor installations
• Code updates and corrections
• Surge protection installations

There are many more use cases we could add to this list, but it should give you an idea of how extensive commercial electrical projects can be. It’s essential to move forward with a company that has the skills and expertise to execute the work no matter the size or scope of the project.

As a general rule, electricians who cater to businesses are also excellent choices for homeowners. Because they handle the large-scale needs of a company, they’ve usually “seen it all” and can put that expertise to work in homes.

What to Look For When Vetting Commercial Electricians

As you’re exploring commercial electrical companies to handle your projects, it’s crucial to understand how to vet your options. Merely offering the right services at the right price doesn’t guarantee an optimal outcome. Instead, consider the following attributes to ensure you’re partnering with a reliable provider:

Safety Record

Many electricians will maintain a safety record as part of their bidding process. You can request a copy of this record when vetting your solutions to see how much of a focus they place on safety. 

If they do not have a safety record, you may be able to do some additional research to learn more. For example, you can talk with some of their clients and ask questions related to their dedication to maintaining a safe work environment. You can also check their bond status to see if there have been any claims made against their bond. You can also check how they responded to those claims. 

Licensing and Accreditation

Commercial electricians must be certified by a reputable organization in order to perform any electrical work. It is not in poor taste to ask to see a copy of their licensing or other accreditations before hiring them. The most reputable electricians will usually furnish a copy to you before you have a chance to ask for it.

Insurance

By law, companies should carry business insurance to ensure that no injuries or damage to property will be incurred at your expense. Don’t hesitate to ask for proof of insurance — this is part of your due diligence.

Electrical work comes with significant liabilities that can be expensive if an accident were to occur on the job. If issues arise at the fault of the electrician, you shouldn’t have to be held liable to cover these costs. 

Knowledge of Local Codes

Electricians operate under the National Electric Code (NEC), which has laid out the groundwork for electrical safety in working on commercial, residential, and industrial projects. However, the Dallas Fort Worth area also has local codes that dictate how electrical work is performed. It’s essential to work with an electrician that understands the local market to avoid expensive reworks, fines, or potential threats to your business.

Commercial Electrical Experience

We touched on this earlier, but it’s essential to work with an electrician that has the skills and knowledge necessary for commercial electrical projects. Not all electricians will have this level of know-how, so look for a provider that specifies they do commercial work.

Emergency Services

Electrical issues or failures can happen at any time, and these issues must be resolved quickly. Not only will you want the assurance that electrical problems will have little impact on the course of doing business, but certain issues may cause fires or other damage. 

Many companies offer a 24/7 emergency service, which means you won’t have to wait until the next business day to start seeking resolution. You never know when you might need their expertise, so consider giving favor to those who are readily available around the clock.

Online Reviews and Testimonials

Checking a company’s online reputation has become somewhat par for the course. Studies have shown that 91% of people routinely check for online reviews or testimonials before making a purchasing decision, and 84% of consumers trust online reviews as much as a referral from a family member or friend. 

To start, look up the business on Google to see their Google My Business rating. Previous customers can leave a star rating and review, which may give you some insight into what the company does well and reasons why other users may have been dissatisfied. You can also check out their social media pages to see what others are saying about the business. Other resources include Yelp!, Angie’s List, Trust Pilot, the Better Business Bureau, Consumer Affairs, and even LinkedIn. 

You can also take the old-fashioned route by asking for references. Many electricians will hand over a client list for you to do your research before making a hiring decision.

Estimates 

Different electrical companies will have different estimates for the same job. And while the cost isn’t the most crucial consideration, it is part of the decision making process. It’s a good idea to shop around for the best estimates and consider those costs along with the whole package from each provider. You may find that while one company costs a little more, they give you more value in your total project that can easily justify the higher ticket price.

Find the Best Commercial Electrician in Dallas-Fort Worth

Choosing a commercial electrician is serious business. Electricians must be able to not only execute the job, but also ensure the safety of the property, themselves, and others long after the work has been completed.

At Cotton Electric, quality and safety are our top priorities to give you an optimal outcome. We have nearly 40 years in business and more than 19,500 projects to our name. We are dedicated to helping you achieve the best results. Contact us today to learn more or get a quote for your upcoming commercial electrical projects!