03/24/2021
Funny Stuff I hear:
1. It's okay for a non electrical contractor to do it if it's just a simple job.
Answer: No. Any contractor must have a Journeyman license in the trade specific work being done. Ie. air conditioning guy can't and should not do your connection to electrical as he is not insured for this work or liable. Also he can't pull the permit for it. which brings us to..
2. A contractor can work under a home owners permit.
Answer: No. If you have hired contractors to do the work, they are responsible to obtain the permits.
If you are doing the work yourself, you should obtain the permit provided you are the owner and you live or will be living at the premises (some restrictions may apply).
3. Can a homeowner pull a permit.
Answer: Yes, but you do the work. which means you are liable and maybe not insured. insurance companies really like not to pay claims when they can, be confident in the work or seek a contractor.
4. I'm just adding a couple plugs, so I don't need a permit.
Answer: An electrical permit is required for all new wiring installations, as well as when extending or altering any existing electrical branch circuit wiring.
5. Your price is so high.
Answer: I pay $1.66 per hour for WCB, $250 a month for insurances, $150 a year for master certification, $300 every 3 years for recertification of master, work van maintenance, business licenses, gas and tools before even showing up. Than there is office supplies, cell phone bill and other incidentals. So my price reflects the cost to operate legally and ethically.
6. Can you match this other guys price.
Answer: No. See above for one or the many things he has not paid for and does not bring through your front door. WCB missing can result in homeowner insurance being sued for injuries. Missing insurance can result in an accident costing you money instead of the contractor. I rarely get asked to show these but is easy to provide when needed.
