Yes, tragic and catastrophic house fire IS a real concern, but that is not the only consideration in whether a project should be on a honey-do list or a call to us.
There is a lot to be said about knowing how to do your own household repairs and learning and being proficient with the specifics of your home. It is fulfilling and can even be fun at times (especially when it is being done to learn, and not something forced by financial constraints).
Home DIY projects that should be left in the “leave it to the pros” column include electrical repairs that get deeper than changing lightbulbs or wiring in new ceiling fans.
Permits
Aside from the inherent dangers involved in working with electricity, there is a practical concern. Do you have the building permits needed for the project? If you ever want to put the property on the market, wiring codes and adherence to them are going to be a big deal. If you are asking yourself “What wiring codes?” then you might want to consult with a professional before starting the project.
This is Dallas’s electrical permit process.
For Homeowners: 1. After presenting proof of homestead, the owner files plans and specifications with the chief electrical code administrator. 2. Satisfy requirements by the chief electrical code administrator as to the owner’s ability to install electrical wiring by passing an approved written or oral examination. 3. Apply for and secure a permit and pay required fees. 4. Do work in accordance with Chapter 56 of the Dallas City Code. 5. Apply for inspection.
If that sounds like a lot of work, then using a contractor that is licensed with the city you live in is the way to go.
What’s the Worst That Could Happen?
Shock. Electrocution. House fires. The National Fire Protection Agency names faulty electrical wiring as the leading cause of house fires in the U.S.
Even if you are able to complete the repair or project without any (noticeable) issues, you may have just created a problem under certain load conditions. You may very well not realize you have caused a problem until later on when your new wiring is tied into something that overloads the capacity. Hopefully, this just trips a breaker. It could easily cause an electrical fire, however. These are all great reasons to call in the pros when considering if a project is within your skillset or not.
Light fixtures? If you’re an experienced DIY’er, then it might be a suitable task. Anything more complex though, give a licensed electrician a call. The years of training on top of all our experience is the reason we are professionals after all.
Is the wiring inside a wall, ceiling or panel box? These should be handled by licensed and insured electricians. How old is your home? Older homes with non-traditional wiring might even require special tools or procedures. It is certainly something you would want to be aware of before doing any work on them.
Wiring on the Outside of the Home
Any exterior lines coming into the home are high voltage and extremely dangerous. They should never be worked on by anyone other than a licensed and insured electrician. Attachment wiring, like to the outside meter box and wiring from the meter box to the panel also fall into this category. Do. Not. Attempt.
Contact Speedy Electric and AC today to have our professional electricians handle all of your home’s electrical issues.