When we are called in, to repair, our electrician frequently hears the following comment, “but the handyman said he could do it.” This tells us that homeowners may not be aware of some crucial information. Electrical (like Plumbing and Gas Fitting) is a high-skill trade. This means that all electrical installations, repairs, and renovations are provincially regulated and must follow national Regulation standards for every installation. This is for the safety and protection of the public.
The Electrical Regulation has particular guidelines for every electrical application. These guidelines are there because past experience and evidence have shown that following precise installation procedures reduces the risk of fire and therefore reduces the incidents of personal injury and loss.
The risk of fire and injury increases when:
- Incorrect procedures, techniques and/or products are used for electrical installations or repairs.
- Load calculations are not factored into the electrical installation.
- Questionable work is not inspected and corrected by a trained professional electrician.
- Ageing electrical systems are not evaluated and serviced regularly.
- Electrical work is not done by an experienced electrician who is knowledgeable in the most current Electrical Code requirements.
- Etc
What do and is Handyman
A handyman is an individual who provides minor renovations and maintenance repair services that do not fall under the responsibility of a nationally recognized and regulated trade, such as electrical, plumbing or gas installation, to name a few. The handyman’s work is not regulated, which means that no formal training is required. The work is done without a permit, so therefore, there is no accountability for quality, correctness or safety as the work is not inspected. Generally, there is no performance insurance policy protection, so the customer/homeowner must assume 100% of the responsibility and risk for the work completed. It is illegal for a handyman to work on the electrical system in your home or business.
What do and is Approved Electrician
A licensed electrician must successfully complete four levels of apprenticeship training to earn the title of an approved electrician. This apprenticeship includes four-week sessions of in-school academic training, with practical assessments and written exams for each level, plus a minimum of 6000 hours of supervised work-based training and experience. This education usually takes 4 to 5 years to complete.
But a conscientious, approved electrician knows that his education is not over with completing those hours or that final exam. He must also stay current on newer techniques, safer products and the most recent Regulation updates, which may change every three years. He knows that, even though most of his work may be hidden by plasterboard, brick or render, the safety of the building and its’ occupants depends on his knowledge and expertise.
Since the JIB and Safety Authority demands this level of knowledge, skill and experience to make changes to an electrical system, homeowners are wise to expect the same.
An Electrical Contractor is licensed by the JIB and Safety Authority to provide electrical services to the public by employing licensed, approved electricians and apprentices to do the work. An electrical contractor must carry the proper licensing, insurance policies, and bonds to protect the customer. Only the electrical contractor (not a handyman or an electrician) can purchase the required electrical permit for the electrical work in your home or business. This work is monitored and inspected by the government body NAPIT or NICEIC to ensure it meets the stringent requirements of the current National Electrical Regulation Standards.
An electrical contractor must also remain current on all work dues to ensure his electricians and apprentices are covered by an insurance policy. Otherwise, the homeowner will be considered the employer and be held responsible for any injuries on their property. A reputable contractor will maintain an electrical bond in accordance with the National Safety Standards Act and also carry a generous insurance policy. These provisions are there to protect the customer in the event of a problem with the work or services provided.
Entrusting any part of the electrical system to a handyman just because he may be familiar with construction is like allowing the cleaner to remove your appendix just because he works in the hospital.
Important
- Your property or homeowner’s insurance policy may be affected should there be a claim as a result of electrical work done by an unqualified person.
Keep your home and family safe. Call a professional.
CONTACT V&R ELECTRICAL SERVICES
If you are looking for a professional and reliable electrician in Failsworth, Manchester or surrounding areas, V&R Electrical Services is your top choice as a local electrical company. We focus on safety, inspection and electrical installation for domestic and commercial clients.
