Most homeowners don't hire electricians often enough to know what to ask. That's how people end up with unlicensed contractors, skipped permits, and electrical work that fails inspection. These 10 questions — and the answers you should expect — will protect you before a single wire gets touched.
The 10 Questions (and What the Answers Tell You)
1. Are you licensed in Missouri, and can I have your license number?
✅ Good answer: Provides a license number on the spot and tells you where to verify it (Missouri Division of Professional Registration).
🚩 Red flag: Hesitates, says they're "working on it," or offers a vague credential instead of an actual license number.
2. Do you carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation?
✅ Good answer: Yes — and they can email you a certificate of insurance before work starts.
🚩 Red flag: Says yes but can't produce a certificate. Without proof, you have no protection if a worker is injured on your property or something is damaged.
3. Will you pull a permit for this job?
✅ Good answer: Yes, and the permit cost is included in the estimate. They explain the inspection process.
🚩 Red flag: Offers to skip the permit "to keep costs down." This saves them time, not you money — and leaves you holding unpermitted work when you sell your home.
4. Can I get a written, itemized estimate before any work begins?
✅ Good answer: Absolutely — they provide a written estimate that breaks out labor, materials, and permits.
🚩 Red flag: Gives you only a verbal number or won't commit anything to writing until after the job starts.
5. How long have you been working in St. Louis, and can you provide references?
✅ Good answer: Established local presence with verifiable Google reviews, a business address, and references available on request.
🚩 Red flag: No local reviews, no address, and references that never actually call back. Transient contractors have no accountability.
6. Who will actually be doing the work — you, or a subcontractor?
✅ Good answer: The licensed electrician you're talking to will be on-site, or they clearly identify who the licensed lead will be.
🚩 Red flag: Vague answer — "my guys will handle it." You need to know that the person doing the work holds the appropriate license.
7. What panel brands do you install, and why?
✅ Good answer: Names specific brands (Square D, Eaton, Siemens) and can explain why they're preferred. Avoids outdated or recalled brands.
🚩 Red flag: Installs "whatever's cheapest" or can't name the brand at all. The panel is the heart of your home's electrical system — brand and quality matter.
8. What's your timeline, and what happens if the job runs longer?
✅ Good answer: Gives a realistic estimate with a clear explanation of what could extend it (e.g., if Ameren needs to disconnect service for a panel upgrade).
🚩 Red flag: Promises an unrealistically fast turnaround or won't discuss what happens if they're delayed.
9. What payment terms do you require?
✅ Good answer: A reasonable deposit (typically 10–30%) with the balance due on completion. Some require partial payment at milestones on larger jobs.
🚩 Red flag: Demands full payment upfront before any work starts. This is the single biggest warning sign of a contractor who won't finish the job.
10. What warranty do you provide on your work?
✅ Good answer: A clear labor warranty (typically 1–2 years) plus manufacturer warranty on parts. They explain what's covered.
🚩 Red flag: No warranty offered, or vague reassurances with nothing in writing.
Why These Questions Matter in St. Louis Specifically
St. Louis has a mix of very old housing stock — many homes date from the early 1900s — and newer suburban construction. Old homes in South City, Kirkwood, Webster Groves, and Florissant often have aging wiring, outdated panels, or aluminum branch circuits that require an experienced electrician who knows local code requirements. St. Louis County, St. Louis City, and Jefferson County each have their own permit and inspection processes. Hiring someone unfamiliar with local requirements means delays, failed inspections, and re-work.
💡 Missouri tip: You can verify any Missouri electrical license at the Missouri Division of Professional Registration website. Takes 30 seconds and is absolutely worth doing.
One More Thing: Trust Your Gut
If an electrician is evasive, pressures you to decide immediately, or makes you feel like asking questions is a hassle — that tells you everything you need to know. A professional is happy to answer these questions because they have nothing to hide.
At ElectricSTL, we answer all of these before you commit to anything. Call (314) 408-5647 for a free estimate — no pressure, no surprises.