Hiring an electrician isn’t something most homeowners do often. In fact, many people only need major electrical work a handful of times in their lives. Because of that, it’s easy to feel uncertain about who to trust, what questions to ask, or how to compare estimates.
Unfortunately, making the wrong choice can lead to unsafe work, failed inspections, and unexpected costs down the road. To help you avoid those headaches, here are three of the most common mistakes homeowners make when hiring an electrician—and how you can avoid them.
1. Assuming All Electricians Are Licensed
It’s easy to assume that anyone who calls themselves an electrician is fully licensed and insured. But that’s not always the case.
Working with someone who isn’t properly licensed can:
- Put your home at risk of unsafe or non-compliant work
- Void product warranties or even your home insurance coverage
- Leave you responsible if there’s an accident on your property
👉 How to avoid this mistake: Always ask for proof of state/county licensing and up-to-date insurance. A reputable electrician will gladly provide documentation.
In Florida, electrical contractors must be licensed through the Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR), which ensures they meet state standards for education, experience, insurance, and ongoing compliance.
Before hiring an electrician, you can verify their license status using the official DBPR “Verify a License” tool at MyFloridaLicense.com. Just enter the electrician’s name or license number, and you’ll be able to see whether their license is current, whether they have the required insurance, and whether there are any active disciplinary actions. This check protects you from hiring someone unqualified, unlicensed, or out of compliance, which can lead to unsafe work, voided insurance, or legal trouble down the road.
2. Focusing Only on the Lowest Price
It’s natural to compare quotes and lean toward the cheapest option. But with electrical work, the lowest price can come with hidden costs.
Cut-rate quotes often mean:
- Permits are skipped to save time and fees
- Contractor is unlicensed or electricians have minimal experience
- Corners are cut, leaving your home vulnerable to future problems
👉 How to avoid this mistake: Instead of asking, “Who’s cheapest?” ask, “What’s included in your quote, and how do you ensure the work is done safely and up to code?”
You may also be interested in: How Can I Save Money on My Electrical Work? (Let’s Talk Honestly)
3. Not Asking About Inspections or Code Compliance
Electrical work isn’t just about making the lights turn on; it’s about ensuring your home meets safety and building standards.
If inspections or code compliance are overlooked, you could face:
- Safety hazards hidden behind your walls
- Failed home inspections when it’s time to sell
- Costly rework later to bring everything up to code
👉 How to avoid this mistake: Always confirm that your electrician will pull the necessary permits and schedule inspections. This step protects both your home and your future resale value.
The Bottom Line
Hiring an electrician is about more than finding someone who can “do the job.” It’s about protecting your home, your family’s safety, and your long-term investment. By avoiding these three mistakes—verifying licensing, looking beyond the lowest price, and asking about inspections—you’ll make a confident, informed choice.
Get a quote from Bryan Hindman Electric today. Our 1900+ 5-star reviews prove how we check all the right boxes.