So, you’re planning a residential electrical project. Where do you start? How do you prepare for the impending disruption? How do you keep costs down while ensuring you’re going to be happy with the final product? These are just a few of the questions that are likely keeping your wheels spinning. Though you may feel overwhelmed, we’re here to tell you that with a little bit of planning you can rest assured that your project will be a success. As leading North Vancouver electrical contractors, it’s our job to help you explore the key considerations all homeowners should address when working with a residential electrical contractor. Let’s get started!
Projected Length of Project
Be sure to talk with your electrical contractor about the projected timeline of your project. Stress that you want your expectations set reasonably. All too often homeowners underestimate the time required to complete a job successfully and many don’t bother to inquire about the projected timeline.
Any in-home construction is a disruption so it’s not surprising that homeowners want projects wrapped up as quickly as possible. However, electrical work is definitely not something you want to rush. In addition, an experienced residential electrical contractor will be able to provide a reliable timeline, which includes cushion for the unexpected. By discussing this in the planning phase, you will avoid surprises down the road.
Smart Home Upgrades
As we’ve recently discussed in our series on home automation, smart home upgrades are all the rage. Be sure to discuss potential upgrades with your electrical contractor. You may find that some relatively inexpensive additions to your current project plan can add to the value of your home and make life a bit easier. From smart lighting to improved energy efficiency, home automation just might be the upgrade you didn’t even know you needed.
Lighting Can Make All the Difference
Updated lighting including recessed lights and LED lighting can completely transform a space. Be sure to talk to your contractor about lighting upgrades. If, for example, you’re updating your kitchen and completing some basic electrical work, under cabinet lighting can add a design element you didn’t even know you were missing.
Preparing Your Home
For the safety of your residential electrical contractor and your loved ones, it’s important to prepare the space before work begins. Ask your contractor to help you understand what furniture will need to be removed and/or covered and other hazards that will need to be addressed before work can begin. This is yet another way to set your expectations ahead of time to avoid surprises.
What’s Next?
While you’re investing the time and the resources to hire an electrical contractor, now is the time to also consider other projects you plan to take on in the future. If, for example, you’re planning to complete a bathroom remodel in the coming months, chat with your contractor about the cost differential for completing all the work at once. You may find that for a nominal additional charge, you can add knock out your entire electrical to-do list now. It certainly doesn’t hurt to ask!
TCA Electric: Trusted Electrical Contractor – Residential & Commercial
At TCA Electric we are always happy to assist our clients through every step of their residential or commercial electrical projects. From planning to execution, we are here to answer your questions and help you prepare, even for the unexcepted! If you’re ready to learn why we’re Vancouver’s go-to electrical contractors, we encourage you to contact us today. Let’s start planning!