Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about our electrical services, licensing, permits, costs, and process. Can't find what you're looking for? Call us at (310) 961-9401.
General
Are your electricians licensed in California?
Yes. Every electrician on our team holds a valid C-10 Electrical Contractor license through the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). We also carry full general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.
Do you provide free estimates?
Yes. We provide free written estimates for most projects. For diagnostic or troubleshooting visits, there is a service call fee that is applied toward the repair if you choose to proceed with the work.
What areas do you serve?
We serve over 150 cities across California, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Glendale, Burbank, Beverly Hills, Torrance, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, and surrounding communities. Contact us to confirm coverage for your location.
Do you offer warranties on your work?
Yes. All our electrical work is backed by a workmanship warranty. Specific warranty terms vary by project type. We also honor manufacturer warranties on all parts and equipment we install.
What is the difference between a handyman and a licensed electrician?
In California, only a C-10 licensed electrical contractor can legally perform electrical work beyond minor repairs. A licensed electrician carries proper insurance, pulls required permits, follows California Electrical Code, and ensures inspections are passed. Hiring unlicensed help can create safety hazards, void your homeowner's insurance, and cause problems when selling your home.
Do you work on commercial properties?
Yes. We provide commercial electrical services including office buildouts, retail lighting, panel upgrades, code compliance updates, and emergency service for businesses. We work with property managers, general contractors, and business owners throughout California.
Emergency Service
Do you offer 24/7 emergency electrical service?
Yes. We provide 24/7 emergency electrical service for safety-critical situations including power outages, sparking outlets, burning smells, exposed wiring, and other hazards. Call (310) 961-9401 for immediate assistance.
How fast can you respond to an electrical emergency?
For emergency calls within the greater Los Angeles area, we typically dispatch an electrician within 60 minutes. Response times may be longer during severe weather or for locations outside our primary service area.
Is there an extra charge for emergency or after-hours service?
Emergency calls outside normal business hours may include a trip charge. However, the initial safety assessment is free — if we determine the issue is not an immediate hazard, we can schedule the repair during regular hours at standard rates.
What counts as an electrical emergency?
Electrical emergencies include: complete power loss not caused by a utility outage, sparking or arcing from outlets or panels, burning smell from electrical components, exposed live wiring, water contact with electrical systems, and any situation where someone has received an electrical shock. If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call us — we will help you determine the right response.
Permits & Codes
Do I need a permit for electrical work in California?
Most electrical work beyond simple fixture replacements requires a permit in California. This includes panel upgrades, new circuits, rewiring, EV charger installation, and adding outlets. We handle the complete permit process for every qualifying project.
What is the California Electrical Code?
The California Electrical Code (CEC) is Part 3 of Title 24 of the California Building Standards Code. It adopts the National Electrical Code (NEC) with California-specific amendments. The CEC governs all electrical installations in the state and is updated on a three-year cycle.
Do you handle the inspection process?
Yes. For all permitted work, we schedule the final inspection with the local building department and are present for the inspection. We don't consider a job complete until it passes inspection.
What happens if electrical work is done without a permit?
Unpermitted electrical work can create safety risks, void your homeowner's insurance, reduce your home's resale value, and result in fines from the city. If unpermitted work is discovered during a home inspection, the buyer may require it to be brought up to code before closing — often at significant cost. We always recommend permitted, inspected work.
Costs & Pricing
How much does a panel upgrade cost?
A 200-amp panel upgrade in California typically costs between $2,500 and $5,000, depending on the existing wiring, permit requirements, utility coordination, and whether the service entrance cable also needs replacement. We provide a detailed written estimate before starting work.
How much does EV charger installation cost?
A Level 2 EV charger installation typically costs $500 to $2,000 for the electrical work (not including the charger unit). If a panel upgrade is also needed, that adds $2,500 to $5,000. The main variable is the distance from your panel to the charger location.
How much does house rewiring cost?
A whole-house rewire in California typically costs $8,000 to $20,000 for a standard single-family home. The price depends on house size, number of circuits, ease of access, and whether the panel also needs upgrading. We provide a detailed estimate after inspecting your home.
Do you charge for estimates?
No. We provide free on-site estimates for most projects. For troubleshooting or diagnostic visits where we need to perform testing to identify the problem, there is a service call fee. This fee is credited toward the repair if you choose to proceed with the work.
Do you offer financing?
For larger projects like panel upgrades, whole-house rewiring, or generator installations, we can discuss payment options. Contact us to learn about current financing availability for your project.
EV Chargers
What brands of EV chargers do you install?
We install all major EV charger brands including Tesla Wall Connector, ChargePoint Home Flex, JuiceBox, Emporia, Grizzl-E, Wallbox Pulsar Plus, and ClipperCreek. We also install hardwired NEMA 14-50 outlets for plug-in chargers.
Do I need a panel upgrade for an EV charger?
It depends on your current panel capacity and how many circuits are already in use. A Level 2 charger typically requires a 40-amp or 50-amp dedicated circuit. If your panel is already at or near capacity (common with 100-amp panels), a panel upgrade may be needed. We assess this during the free estimate.
Are there rebates for EV charger installation in California?
Yes. California offers several incentive programs for EV charger installation. The federal government offers a tax credit of up to $1,000 for residential charger installation. Many California utilities (SCE, PG&E, SDG&E) also offer rebates through their own programs. We help identify and apply for available rebates as part of the installation process.
Still Have Questions?
Describe your situation and a licensed electrician will contact you with answers and a free estimate.
Need immediate help? Call (310) 961-9401 for 24/7 emergency service.