Although home owners are permitted to conduct their own work, they must comply with jurisdictional codes. Any electrical work requires permits and inspection electricians are trained to safely remove, install, test, and rework everything from electronics (furnaces) to service up to 750 volts. Simply put, an electrician’s skill level more than exceeds a single light fixture replacement, and your safety should never be compromised.
Overhead , including office & storage space, liability insurance, WCB, vacation pay, vehicle maintenance/repair, tools and training are all factors in a company’s ability to quote a job successfully. Estimators do their best to give you a competitive quote with little margin for error. Compare quotes where extras might be included and the quality of the products being used.
There is a cost prior to workmanship beginning. As previously stated, permits can be very costly as well as materials. Generally, customers can expect to pay 30-50% up front to cover these costs, and the remainder upon completions of larger jobs.
Do you know for certain they are qualified? Do they pull permits, have warranty for the work, have employees, or are looking just for cash without a receipt? Do your research and hire a professional who never overlooks safety and responsibility. Being a journey person does not guarantee they are qualified. In Alberta, only Master Electricians can pull permits.
Halogen bulbs on the CRI (colour rendering index) are most favorable but come at a cost. They produce a great amount of heat when energized and need to be cooled slowly when de-energized. If the bulbs cools too quickly, or are cycled on and off in a cooler environment, the life expectancy will greatly diminish. LED’s have become a cost effective way to replace the regular GU10 bulbs…try them today!
The new CEC (Canadian Electrical Code 2016) has implemented this new rule for your safety. All trades must comply with the minimum standards of our industry. A simple renovation requires us to bring an old panel up to new standards if we are adding new receptacle circuits. These breakers can be very expensive, but vital to your safety. What price are you willing to put on that?