10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Electrician
Hiring the right electrician begins with asking the right questions. A good contractor will not hesitate to answer any of them clearly — in fact will welcome them as they demonstrate professionalism. This guide puts the right evaluation tools in your hands before you sign.
By the Ases Kahraba team — Last updated: February 2026
Quick Answer
Before signing any electrical contract, ask these ten questions to ensure you choose a reliable licensed electrician who uses quality materials and offers a real warranty. A practical guide for homeowners in Egypt.
Seven Essential Questions Before Signing an Electrical Contract
- Are you licensed and registered with the Engineering Syndicate or Contractors Federation? A license proves the electrician has undergone professional assessment. Its absence means they operate outside the regulatory framework and cannot be held accountable through official channels.
- How long has your company been operating and what are your most notable completed projects? Ask for examples by project name and address or documented photographs. A professional contractor keeps a portfolio and is happy to share it. Skipping this question is a clear warning sign.
- What materials and brands will you use in my project? Specify: cable manufacturer, cross-section size, distribution panel and breaker brand, and socket and switch brand. A vague answer of 'good materials' is insufficient and should be refused.
- Do your prices include civil works such as wall cutting and patching? This single question reveals hidden costs before they become a surprise. If civil works are excluded, ask for a separate estimate for them in the same meeting.
- What is the warranty period for workmanship and materials, and what exactly does the warranty cover? A good warranty covers installation defects and materials for at least one year. Insist that the warranty clause be included in the written contract with a clear statement of what is and is not covered.
- Who supervises the work on site daily — is there a resident technical supervisor? Some companies feature their senior staff in meetings and leave untrained workers to execute. Ask by name who will be responsible for daily supervision.
- Do you carry accident insurance covering workers and property damage? A professional company carries workers' insurance and sometimes property coverage. Absence of insurance means you are legally liable if an accident occurs at your site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I entitled to ask the electrician to prove their license?
Yes, absolutely. A licensed electrician carries a Syndicate membership card or company registration certificate. Requesting these documents is not an insult — it is a smart practice that protects you. A professional electrician will appreciate it and will not be bothered by it.
What should I do if the electrician refuses to answer my questions?
Treat it as a clear warning sign. A good contractor welcomes client questions because they build trust and set expectations. Refusal or evasiveness means either they are hiding something or they are not accustomed to professional dealings. In either case, look for another contractor.
Should I also ask about supplier names in addition to brands?
Yes, especially for large projects. Knowing the supplier (distributor) name allows you to independently verify market prices and material authenticity. A contractor who deals with certified distributors provides more reliable materials than one who buys from random markets.
How do I verify the warranty the electrician promises?
Ask for the warranty stated in writing in the contract with clear wording: what it covers, for how long, and how it is activated when needed. A verbal warranty or a 'trust me' promise has no legal value in Egypt. A written warranty in a signed contract is the only one with real value.
Is years of experience the only criterion for choosing an electrician?
No, experience is important but not sufficient alone. An electrician with 20 years may be entrenched in old habits and unfamiliar with the modern electrical code. What matters more is the combined set of criteria: license, materials quality, warranty, good supervision, and transparent quotes.