How Hiring Unlicensed Electrical Contractors Can Cost You More in the Long Run

Have you heard those stories where a contractor wreaks havoc on someone's home and vanishes with their hard-earned cash before finishing the project? I think we all have, and it's never pretty.

Let me share a story about a customer who called us after their project went wrong. They decided to hire a local handyman to replace a ceiling fan, hoping to save $100 in the process. Little did they know, this handyman lacked the proper qualifications to handle electrical work, and never returned after installing half of the ceiling fan.

When we arrived to the customers home, we initially assumed it was a straightforward ceiling fan installation. However, a closer inspection revealed a hazardous situation. The handyman had mixed up the wiring inside the fan's electrical box. This was a problem that Point Electric LLC had to fix. Unfortunately, the customer had already paid the unreliable handyman, and fixing his mistakes ended up costing the homeowner more than the initial payment.

Bringing in unqualified individuals for seemingly simple tasks often results in higher costs for homeowners compared to hiring skilled professionals from the start. Hiring unlicensed workers is not advisable, as it can lead to increased expenses and pose a risk to both your finances and your home's safety.

Here are some of the risks associated with hiring an unlicensed contractor:

Liability Concerns

When you hire an unlicensed contractor, you open yourself up to a world of liability issues. Licensed contractors typically have insurance coverage that protects both themselves and their employees. This insurance is necessary because it shields homeowners from potential property damage during the project. It also covers injuries that workers might sustain while on your property. Without this coverage, you could be left responsible if something goes wrong.

Insurance Gaps

Hiring an unlicensed contractor may result in insurance gaps. In the event of property damage or injuries, your homeowner's insurance might not cover the costs incurred due to the work of an unlicensed contractor. This can lead to unexpected expenses that you believed were protected.

"Americans have lost a total of $206 million to home improvement scams since 2007, or roughly $13 million per year." - Inspection Support Network

Contractors Lack of Education, and Possible Electrical Hazards

Electrical work is particularly sensitive and hazardous. Unlicensed contractors often lack the proper training and expertise needed to handle electrical installations or repairs safely. This poses a significant risk to your home's safety and could result in electrical shocks or damage, potentially endangering your family.

Additionally, some unlicensed contractors may not have the necessary education, training, or knowledge required for the job. This can lead to substandard work, further jeopardizing your project's quality and safety.

Construction Scams

Unfortunately, the world of unlicensed contractors has its dark side – construction scams. These individuals often target unsuspecting homeowners, promising low prices but delivering subpar or even dangerous work. Falling victim to a construction scam can result in financial losses and unnecessary stress.

Do Your Due Diligence When Hiring Contractors

When it comes to home improvement, taking shortcuts often leads to long-term headaches and unforeseen expenses. Even seemingly minor tasks like replacing a light fixture should prompt you to hire a licensed contractor.

Not everyone, whether homeowners or unlicensed contractors, is aware of the rules. Reputable contractors invest significantly to maintain their licenses, making it challenging for those who operate without proper credentials to compete. It's essential to remember that even for basic tasks like light or outlet replacements, state regulations require contractors to be licensed. You can verify a contractor's licensing status with a simple online search of your state's licensing board. If they aren't listed there, they are not licensed.

Don't leave the safety and well-being of your home and family to chance. Entrust your projects to professionals who prioritize your peace of mind and safety. While hiring an unlicensed contractor may seem like a cost-saving measure, in reality, it's a gamble that could result in much higher costs down the road. Do yourself a favor and leave it to the professionals who genuinely care about you and your family's well-being.

Looking for a Licensed Professional?

At Point Electric LLC, we are deeply committed to delivering the best service in every project we take on. Quality and safety are our top priorities as we strive to enhance our community while providing exceptional customer service. Don't hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment today by calling 919-407-0932. We look forward to working with you!