The difference between an electrical contractor and a certified electrician

Most people get a little bit confused when hiring electrical contractors in Sydney NSW. They don’t know the difference between an electrical contractor and a certified electrician.

Certified electrician

Certification of electricians applies only to individuals. Electricians who work for electrical contractors should be certified. For you to become a certified electrician, you have to pass an exam and successfully complete on-the-job experience in different electrical work aspects or successfully complete an approved apprenticeship. Apprenticeship programs may include on-job training and classes that are usually run in the evenings. The work experience needed for a general electrician’s certificate covers matters such as installing underground conduits, wiring, dealing with materials, troubleshooting, fire safety and maintenance.

The examination consists of different questions and a mark of at least 70% is required to pass. The certification of an electrician expires after three years.

Electrical contractors

Electrical contractors Sydney in New South Wales are people or businesses that undertake electrical work. They employ certified electricians. Licensed contractors deal with bigger projects compared to certified electricians. Different license classes relate to different trades. To get a contractor’s license, you must have either four years of experience working in the relevant area or if you have completed an approved apprenticeship program then you will need at least one year experience.

Electrical Contractors Sydney

You will also need to pass exams in business law, have a lodge bond with the registrar at $10000 and have a working capital of at least 25000 dollars. 72% is the pass mark for this exam. Additional processes include a background check. Contractors should take out compensation insurance of workers to cover costs incurred in case any employee gets injured on the job.

After getting a license, electrical contractors Sydney NSW in Australia get a certificate to be displayed at their office and a card to keep in their wallet. You can check whether a contractor has these two before hiring them.