How to Prepare for an Electrical Contractor Visit: What to Know and Expect

Booked a visit from an electrical contractor? It’s unlikely you’re after just a routine check-up. You might need a persistent problem fixed, or maybe you’re planning a total system upgrade to make sure your building meets safety regs. Whatever the job, getting prepared makes a real difference.

It’s not about impressing the contractor. It’s about safety, saving time and minimising disruption. And a bit of planning? It makes a world of difference.

So, what should you do before the van pulls up? You’re in the right place. In this blog, we run through the complete guide for homeowners, business owners and anyone else expecting a visit from the pros.

1. Know What Work Is Being Done

Sounds obvious. Yet, a lot of people don’t actually check what’s being done.

Is it an inspection? A full rewire? Maybe just a socket replacement or an EV charger install. Whatever it is, get clear on the scope before the work starts.

Quick tip: jot down anything odd you’ve noticed. Flickering lights. Buzzing sockets. Anything. Once the work begins, those small niggles tend to vanish from memory.

If you’re in charge of a commercial site, flag the relevant circuits or systems ahead of time. Electrical contractors work faster when they don’t have to play detective.

2. Clear the Area

No need to roll out the red carpet, but a clear workspace goes a long way.

You might need to:

– Shift a bookcase hiding the consumer unit
– Empty the understairs cupboard (where the fuse box loves to live)
– Unlock access to plant rooms or secure areas

In busy offices or shared buildings, give staff or tenants a heads-up. It avoids surprises and keeps things safe.

Got pets? Or small kids? Keep them well away from the action. Electrical contractors need space to work effectively.

3. Plan for a Temporary Power Down

Some jobs need the power off. It might be five minutes. Might be longer. Either way, it’s best to plan ahead.

Home office? Save your work. Unplug your tech. Let anyone else at home know what’s happening.

Running a business? You’ll need to coordinate around peak hours or key operations. Nobody wants the tills down during lunch or the walk-in fridge going warm mid-shift.

Most electrical contractors will let you know before flipping the switch. But being ready means fewer hiccups.

4. Ask Questions Before the Day

The good ones explain what they’re doing and why. They’ll also cover safety and how long things might take.

Don’t be afraid to ask:

– What safety steps will be in place?
– Do you wear PPE indoors?
– Who’s responsible for the cleanup?
– Will old fixtures be taken away?

DGEC’s team is NICEIC-approved and insured. So you know standards are met. But if you’re using someone else? It’s smart to double-check.

5. Get Your Paperwork Ready (If You’ve Got It)

If inspections or reports are involved, any old documents will help. Not essential. Just helpful.

Useful things include:

– Previous EICRs or installation certs
– System diagrams
– Access info for managed properties or landlords

Even if it’s just rough notes, having them to hand keeps things moving.

6. After the Visit: What to Expect

You might get a verbal update. Or a full report. Depends on the job.

Here’s what might land in your inbox:

– A summary of what was done or found
– A quote for future work
– Safety or compliance certificates

Homeowners: file those away. They come in handy later.

Businesses: you’ll likely need them for health and safety records or insurance.

Why DGEC’s Electrical Contractors Stand Out

You’ve got options. Loads of them. But not all contractors bring the same level of care.

Here’s what you get with DGEC:

– Engineers who turn up on time and get stuck in
– Clear quotes – no nasty surprises
– Fully certified, properly insured pros
– Straightforward communication from start to finish

We take on everything from domestic fixes to large-scale commercial upgrades. All across the UK.

Book a Visit Today

Got a question, or want to book a visit from a professional Electrical Contractor? Contact us today. Whether it’s a quick job or a bigger project, we’ll walk you through what to expect.