How to find a good electrician

Many people think that good electricians are few and far between but we'd beg to differ! As long as you look out for the signs of a dodgy one and you ask all the right questions you'll be able to find a good electrician easily.

• At Rated People we believe that personal recommendations are the best way of securing an electrician you can trust. Sometimes this isn't always possible so try and use electricians that have sound credentials and a proven track record. An electrician who is hesitant about putting you in touch with previous customers is someone you should be wary of unless they have a really good reason;
• Certain trade associations such as the NICEIC (National Inspection Council For Electrical Installation Contracting) regularly inspect their contractors works to make sure they are adhering to safety standards so if your contractor is a member of this association it's an indication that they are a good electrician. Not all good electricians are part of this association however so it's still worth verifying how good an electrician is from what others have said about them;
• Phone or online directories aren't the best way to find a reliable electrician as they don't often give you as full a picture of the electrician you're hiring as a recommendation from a customer would;
• Make sure that you NEVER employ an electrician who calls at your house asking for work. A good electrician is a busy electrician who doesn't have time to go cold calling.

If you do find yourself reaching for the directories, make sure you get an electrician with credentials and a proven track record at the very least, and try and get in touch with their previous customers for their recommendations.