WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ELECTRICIAN AND AN ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR?

There are several main differences between electrician services and electrical contractors.

Electrician

Typically an Electrician is an individual responsible for the installation of domestic electrical services and other components to provide electrical power to homes, buildings and other institutions. They often complete an apprenticeship where they learn inside the classroom and gain practical experience on the job.

Electricians are allowed to handle small to medium sized projects. These include rewiring, fire & safety equipment, troubleshooting and general maintenance. Even though electricians have the required qualifications, they are not typically classed as Electrical Contractors.

It is important that electricians can exhibit a specific knowledge of the industry standard and the continuous education in the related field to make sure that their knowledge and skills are up to date and the latest standards are well understood.

Electrical Contractor

Electrical contractors are businesses that are experienced and qualified to be involved in large contracting projects and are required to perform major electrical installations including 3 phase supplies, installation or modification of switchboard and control panels, safety switching equipment, installation and alteration of fixed wired premises in industrial and commercial buildings, and the replacement of mains incoming services plus the maintenance of processing plants and equipment.

Electrical contractors are awarded contractor status by their appropriate governing body, rather than domestic installer. This makes it easy for clients to hire contractors, to establish if they are suitable to complete the work. All work should come with a certificate of compliance, proving that the installation has been tested, and is safe and up to a suitable industry standard.

Clients should ask for proof of status e.g. a certificate and to ensure that they are recognised by their governing body as a contractor, and not a domestic installer.

SCI Management are electrical contractors based in the West Midlands, specialising in computer networks and automation. Speak to us today to get a tailored quote for your business!