5 Questions to Ask Before You Hire an Electrician

Jun 27, 2025 | News, Resources

Not all electrical work is straightforward. Custom jobs often involve planning, creativity, and future-proofing. So before you hire someone, here are five key questions to ask to make sure you’re in good hands.

When you’re planning a custom project—whether it’s a backyard studio, a new workshop, or adding smart lighting throughout your home—you need more than just an electrician; you need a partner who understands your vision and can deliver it safely, efficiently, and up to code.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in BC?

This might sound basic, but it’s absolutely essential. A licensed electrician in British Columbia is certified to perform electrical work safely and legally—and insurance protects you and your home if something goes wrong.

At Connect Valley Electrical, we’re fully licensed, insured, and familiar with the BC Safety Authority requirements. We also take care of the necessary permits and inspections for all custom work.

2. Have You Done This Type of Project Before?

Custom work is all about the details. If you’re building a woodworking shop with specialty equipment, installing landscape lighting, or setting up a multi-zone home audio system, you want someone who’s tackled similar projects before.

Don’t be afraid to ask for examples or photos. A good electrician will be happy to walk you through similar jobs they’ve completed and offer ideas to make your project even better.

3. What Are My Options—and What Would You Recommend?

A great electrician won’t just do what you ask—they’ll help you understand your options. For example, there are several ways to wire a garage or upgrade a panel. The best choice depends on your usage, budget, and long-term goals.

At Connect Valley, we’ll always give you a few options, explain the pros and cons, and help you decide what makes sense for your home—not just for today, but for the future too.

4. How Will You Handle Permits and Inspections?

In B.C., custom electrical work almost always requires a permit, especially when you’re altering circuits, upgrading service, or adding new structures. Make sure your electrician will take care of this on your behalf and coordinate with inspectors to keep everything compliant and stress-free.

5. What Will It Cost—and What’s Included?

For custom work, a detailed estimate is key. Be sure to ask what’s included (materials, labour, clean-up, permit fees), what might change depending on what’s found during the job, and whether they offer a warranty on their work.

At Connected Valley Electrical, we provide clear, honest quotes with no hidden surprises—and we stand by our work every step of the way.


Planning something a little out of the ordinary? We love custom projects, and we’d be happy to help you bring your ideas to life—safely, beautifully, and by the book.

Let’s chat. Tell us what you’re working on, and we’ll help make it happen.

What Our Customers Say

Steven Z. profile pictureSteven Z.
16:23 12 Jun 25
Great service, attention to detail, and friendly courteous staff. Would recommend 100%
Tracy I. profile pictureTracy I.
19:51 03 Jun 25
I highly recommend this company for your electrical needs. They are prompt, courteous and wonderful at solving problems.
Myles D. profile pictureMyles D.
23:11 21 May 25
I highly recommend Connected Valley Electrical. Brendon was great and set up an appointment right away for us. Sean and Ryley were professional and expertly installed our new bathroom ceiling fans. We will always go the Connected Valley Electrical now.
Ashley B. profile pictureAshley B.
20:05 11 May 25
Connected Valley always does amazing work every time we need them. Brendon is always incredibly responsive and helpful above and beyond what is required, and all his electricians are top-notch. Highly recommended.
Jo C. profile pictureJo C.
18:07 06 May 25
I could not recommend CV Electrical more highly!! We have used them a couple of times (Brendon, Sean and Riley) and the level of their workmanship is absolutely top notch. Beyond that, they are immediately responsive, prompt, hard working and very pleasant to work with. In addition to some of the straightforward work, they dedicated additional time and knowledge investigating and problem solving some of the unusual electrical conundrums we inherited when we bought our house. They really listen to you as the customer regarding what you want and how you want it…. then they deliver exactly that! The best!!
Jo Clark
Dave C. profile pictureDave C.
02:58 22 Apr 25
Great on time service. Technician was very pleasant and knowledgeable.
L L. profile pictureL L.
23:44 19 Apr 25
Brendon and crew helped us out on short notice to get a job done in our shop – very well designed and installed, much appreciated – thank you!
Grant P. profile pictureGrant P.
18:05 13 Apr 25
Connected Valley Electrical did a superb job building out high end and exceptionally practical electrical work in our wealth management office. Professional and efficient. Highly recommended.
Stacey H. profile pictureStacey H.
20:07 08 Apr 25
We had the pleasure of meeting Brendon and his team during the construction of our new home. Brendon was always available to answer questions and make suggestions for product choices. Our home included solar installation and rough in wiring for future needs. From the rough-in to the final installation Brendon and his team navigated the project smoothly and we are very pleased with the end results. I would highly recommend Connect Valley Electrical.
Nicola M. profile pictureNicola M.
18:00 08 Apr 25
Brendon and his crew are professional, friendly and have great comminucation. They work diligently and provide great service. We highly recommend Connected Valley!