09/30/2026
PSA
Who is responsible when unlicensed electrical work goes wrong?
That cheap handyman electrical job may not seem so cheap when there’s a fire, damaged equipment, failed inspection, or someone gets hurt.
If the person you hired isn’t properly licensed, bonded, and insured, ask yourself:
• Who pays to repair the damage?
• Does the handyman have insurance that actually covers the work?
• Will your homeowners insurance cover the entire loss?
• Who do you turn to if the handyman refuses or can’t afford to fix it?
• What protection do you have through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors?
In Arizona, the ROC can investigate unlicensed contracting, but the protections available when hiring a licensed contractor are not the same. The Residential Contractors’ Recovery Fund is specifically designed to provide financial protection for eligible homeowners damaged by appropriately licensed residential contractors.
Your homeowners insurance may cover certain resulting losses, but coverage depends on your individual policy and circumstances. Don’t assume insurance will make you whole after unlicensed electrical work.
A contractor’s license, bond, and insurance aren’t just paperwork. They are part of the protection you’re paying for.
Before anyone works on your electrical system, verify they are properly licensed for the work being performed.
Arizona State Electric LLC
ROC #342955