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What Do I Need to Know Before Hiring an Electrician in Cleveland?

When doing electrical work in Cleveland, it is critical that you hire licensed and experienced electricians. Handling electrical issues on your own can be risky and disastrous. It may affect not only yourself but the people around you. Hiring an electrician will help you avoid potential problems and ensure that the work is carried out according to the National Electric code.

Some of the electrical services that a licensed and experienced electrician in Cleveland can provide include:

• Installing EV charging stations
• Troubleshooting and maintaining service equipment
• Installing and repairing electrical panels
• Wiring new buildings and remodeled homes
• Installing, replacing, and repairing electric switches, receptacles, and outlets
• Installing, maintaining, and repairing indoor and outdoor lighting
• Pulling all necessary permits and correcting code violations

Are You Licensed as an Electrician in Cleveland?

Electricians in Cleveland must obtain a license from the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) before providing electrical services in the city. Also, the electrician must register their license with Cleveland's Department of Building and Housing. Having the proper licenses allows them to carry out their tasks properly and efficiently. Accepting bids for electrical work without a valid license is illegal, and any electrician found guilty will be subject to a fine to be determined by the OCILB.

Regardless of how minor your projected electrical work is, hiring an electrician with the necessary licenses is always recommended. Thus, before hiring an electrician, ensure they have the necessary licenses by checking their status via the OCILB's eLicense Lookup Licensee platform.

If you have questions regarding electrician license requirements and procedures, you can direct them to the state's Construction Industry Licensing Board at (614) 644-3493.

What Rates Do You Charge for Your Electrical Services in Cleveland?

In Cleveland, an electrician will charge around $40 to $100 per hour for their work. However, their overall cost will vary depending on several factors, such as:

• The urgency of the job
• Your location within the city
• The nature and scope of your requested electrical services
• The complexity and labor intensity of the job
• The cost to pull necessary permits and materials
• Your preferred electrician's qualifications and level of expertise

You should ask for and compare cost estimates of multiple electricians in your area before hiring an electrician. This will help you better understand the project's cost and find a suitable professional. It will also help you avoid getting ripped off by dishonest electricians who overcharge for their services.

Are You a Master Electrician in Cleveland?

Cleveland-area electricians are categorized into three different categories depending on their experience level:

• Apprentice Electricians: These individuals are still in their apprenticeship programs. They are typically only skilled enough to handle certain electrical-related tasks, and an experienced licensed electrician must supervise them.
• Journeyman Electricians: These professionals have the necessary training to become licensed as state-approved electricians. Please note that the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) does not issue occupational licenses to journeyman electricians in Cleveland. Nonetheless, these individuals must work under the supervision of a licensed electrical contractor.
• Master Electricians: These electricians are highly experienced and skilled individuals who can provide electrical services to residential and commercial customers. They are also responsible for supervising apprentice and journeyman electrical workers. Anyone applying for this license must be 18 years old and have worked for at least five years as an electrician. Also, these electricians must have three years of business experience in the electrical industry and pass the licensure exam.

When choosing your preferred Cleveland-based electrician, make sure they have the necessary skills and experience to do the job satisfactorily.

Will My Electrical Project Require a Permit in Cleveland?

The Cleveland Department of Building and Housing is responsible for issuing electrical permits for any work that involves installing, altering, or removing electrical systems. In addition, the applicant may be required to submit building plans for review. A homeowner who has submitted a homeowner affidavit form can apply for an electrical permit in Cleveland. Likewise, a licensed electrician registered with the city can submit an application for an electrical permit.

For more information about the requirements and procedures for obtaining an electrical permit in Cleveland, you can contact the Building Division by email or in person at:

What Type of Electrical Services Do You Offer in Cleveland?

Skilled and experienced electrical contractors in Cleveland can provide various electrical services to residents, such as:

Will You Be Doing the Work, or Do You Outsource the Electrical Work in Cleveland?

Cleveland electricians can handle most of electrical work by themselves. However, they may have to subcontract some more complex projects, such as home renovations and new building systems. This is typically the case with industrial and commercial projects. As such, you should check with your electrician if they will subcontract to handle your electrical project. If the answer is yes, then take the following steps:

• Make sure that your chosen electrician informs you about any subcontracting.
• Confirm subcontractors' licenses, insurance, and level of expertise.
• Ask for a lien waiver, which will protect you from the primary electrician failing to fulfill the agreed payments to the subcontractors.

Are You a Fully Insured and Bonded Cleveland Electrician?

Electrical contractors must maintain a $500,000 liability insurance coverage to maintain their licenses in Cleveland. They must also carry worker's compensation insurance for their employees. It is crucial that you confirm the insurance status of your preferred electrician before hiring them. This ensures you will be financially protected in the case of third-party bodily injuries and property damage.

Hence, ask your preferred electrician for insurance proof before they start working on your property. Also, make sure that the liability coverage is adequate. You can do this by contacting the electrician's insurance provider. To know more about the requirements of insurance for licensed electrical contractors in the state, contact Ohio's Construction Industry Licensing Board at (614) 644-3493

Do You Offer Any Warranties on Your Electrical Work in Cleveland?

When hiring an electrician in Cleveland, it is important to consider whether they will provide you with a warranty for the services and materials they will use. You should consider it a red flag if they refuse to do so.

Furthermore, although the coverage and validity of these warranties vary depending on the electrician, ensure they are valid for at least one year. Likewise, ensure you get a written copy of the warranty to help you understand its terms and conditions and thus prevent breaching it.

How Do I Resolve Any Issue I Have with Your Electrical Services in Cleveland?

If you believe you were the victim of unfair or misleading practices by a Cleveland electrician, you can file a report with the Consumer Protection Section of the Office of the Ohio Attorney General. You can report the incident online or by filling and submitting a consumer complaint form by mail to: