Watch for Scam Electricians

08 May Watch for Scam Electricians

Kingsport, TN

Unfortunately you can encounter scammers in almost any service industry, including electricians. You should only work with an electrician who is fully licensed, bonded and insured. However, there are certain electricians and even companies who do not operate their business with honor. At Thompson Electrical Service, we want to help you remain vigilant. That’s why we came up with this guide of scams to watch for if you’re in the market for electrical work.

Changing costs

Quality electrical work can come with a significant financial cost. A reputable electrician will provide a comprehensive estimate of the job before any work begins. Some electricians, however, may provide a lowball estimate but then inflate the final bill with surprise charges, citing the need for additional materials or that the job proved to be more complicated than initially anticipated. You also should be wary of electricians who quote an especially high price up front, which could be used as a cover to excuse subpar work or difficulty doing work that meets code.

Fast talkers

Some electricians try to overwhelm their customers with a bunch of technical jargon. They may, in lieu of providing a detailed written estimate, try to diagnose your issue verbally. In doing so, they often try to pressure the client into agreeing to pay a high price for work that is not needed before you can get other opinions. Make sure that any electrician you choose supplies a written estimate before you agree to any of the work.

The “rewire hustle”

This is a very specific scam where the electrician says that, to fully complete the job, a total rewiring of your home is required. Unless you own an extremely old home in Kingsport, Johnson City, Bristol or one of the surrounding areas in Tennessee, then it’s likely that the wiring system in your home does not have to be replaced. A knowledgeable electrician can opt for solutions that are more affordable and efficient, such as the installation of GFCI outlets for enhanced safety. If any electrician insists that you need to have your home totally rewired, be sure to seek a second opinion from another company.

Paying up front

No reputable electrician will demand full payment up front before any of the work begins. Any electrician who does insist on up-front pay may just disappear with your money without completing the job. The industry standard is for a deposit up front, especially for larger projects. Make sure you discuss the payment schedule in full beforehand before any electrical work.

Eagerness

If you feel the electrician is being overly eager or pressuring you into signing a contract, either of these behaviors represents a red flag. The end result could be electrical work that is unneeded or overly expensive or both. When negotiating with any electrician, trust your gut. If something feels off, look elsewhere. Insist on a written contract and make sure to read the contract in full, including any fine print.

Reputable electrical work in Kingsport, Johnson City and Bristol in Tennessee

Thompson Electrical Service has spent more than two decades building a reputation for quality electrical work. We strive to provide accurate service in every project and job we take, for both residential and commercial customers. We look for good deals on products and materials so we can lower costs for our clients. Our company started with a friendship between our two founders and we aim to build relationships while also providing top-quality service. We are fully licensed, bonded and insured. Thompson Electrical Service never asks for full payment up front, provides thorough estimates of every job we take on and won’t pressure you into signing any paperwork.

If you’re in need of electrical work, contact Thompson Electrical Service today to schedule a complimentary estimate by calling our office at (423) 343-5726.