Choosing the right electrician in Edinburgh is crucial for your safety and peace of mind. With hundreds of electricians operating across the city, how do you find one you can trust? This comprehensive 2025 guide covers everything you need to know.
Essential Qualifications to Check
1. Proper Qualifications and Certification
Any reputable Edinburgh electrician should have proper electrical qualifications and be able to demonstrate:
- Qualified to Current Standards: Up-to-date training in BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition) wiring regulations
- City & Guilds Qualifications: Level 3 electrical installation or equivalent
- ECS Card Holder: Electrotechnical Certification Scheme proves individual electrician competency
- Ability to Self-Certify: Can issue proper electrical certificates for work completed
Why Proper Certification Matters
Properly qualified electricians can certify their work to current regulations, ensuring safety and compliance. Always ask to see proof of qualifications and examples of certificates they've issued.
2. Proper Insurance Coverage
Every Edinburgh electrician should have:
- Public Liability Insurance: Minimum £2 million (preferably £5 million+)
- Professional Indemnity Insurance: Protects against design or specification errors
- Employers Liability Insurance: Required if they have employees
Always ask to see proof of insurance before work begins. Reputable electricians will provide this without hesitation.
3. 18th Edition Wiring Regulations
Current electrical work in the UK must comply with BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition). Your electrician should be qualified to this standard - ask specifically about this.
Red Flags to Avoid
Warning Signs of Unreliable Electricians
- • Can't provide proof of qualifications or insurance
- • Refuse to provide written quotes or contracts
- • Ask for full payment upfront (should be staged payments)
- • Can't provide references or examples of previous work
- • Pressure you to make immediate decisions
- • Quotes that seem "too good to be true" (usually are)
- • No registered business address or only mobile phone contact
- • Can't issue electrical certificates for work completed
Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring
About Qualifications
- "What qualifications do you hold?"
- "Are you 18th Edition qualified?"
- "Can you provide electrical certificates for your work?"
- "Can I see proof of your insurance?"
About the Work
- "Will you provide a written quote?"
- "How long will the work take?"
- "Will you provide an electrical certificate upon completion?"
- "Do you guarantee your work?"
- "Who will actually do the work?" (important if it's a larger company)
About Costs
- "What's included in the quote?"
- "Are parts and materials extra?"
- "What's your payment schedule?"
- "Do you charge call-out fees?"
Edinburgh-Specific Considerations
Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas
If your property is in Edinburgh's New Town, Old Town, or other conservation areas, ensure your electrician has experience with:
- Listed building regulations
- Minimal disruption installation methods
- Working with Edinburgh City Council planning requirements
- Period property electrical systems
Tenement Properties
Edinburgh's iconic tenement buildings require specific expertise:
- Shared electrical systems
- Common stair lighting
- Older wiring systems
- Entry phone systems
Where to Find Trusted Electricians
Recommended Platforms
- Checkatrade: All tradespeople pass 12 checks, real customer reviews
- TrustATrader: Vetted tradespeople with verified reviews
- Edinburgh Trusted Trader: Local authority-endorsed scheme
- Google Reviews: Check for verified customer feedback and ratings
- Local Recommendations: Ask neighbors and friends for reliable electricians
Word of Mouth
Personal recommendations from Edinburgh neighbors, friends, or local community groups are invaluable. Ask specifically about:
- Punctuality and reliability
- Quality of workmanship
- Cleanliness and tidiness
- Communication and professionalism
- Final cost vs. quoted price
Understanding Electrical Certificates
Upon completion of work, you should receive appropriate certification:
Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate
For small jobs like adding sockets or lights. Proves work complies with regulations.
Electrical Installation Certificate
For new installations or major alterations. More comprehensive than minor works certificate.
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
Not for new work, but for inspecting existing installations. Required for landlords every 5 years in Scotland.
Cost Expectations in Edinburgh (2025)
| Service Type | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Hourly Rate | £45-£65/hour |
| Emergency Call-Out | £90-£120/hour |
| EICR Test | £150-£300 |
| Consumer Unit Replacement | £400-£800 |
| Full House Rewire (3-bed) | £3,500-£6,000 |
Prices vary based on property size, complexity, and accessibility. Always get written quotes.
Making Your Final Decision
Once you've narrowed down to 2-3 electricians:
- Get written quotes: Compare like-for-like, not just price
- Check references: Speak to previous customers if possible
- Verify credentials: Double-check accreditations online
- Trust your instincts: Choose someone you feel comfortable with
- Get everything in writing: Quote, timeline, payment terms, warranties
What We Offer at Amerson Electrical
As Edinburgh-based electricians, we pride ourselves on transparency and professionalism:
- ✓ Fully qualified to 18th Edition standards
- ✓ Full public liability insurance
- ✓ Transparent, written quotes
- ✓ All work certified to current regulations
- ✓ 24/7 emergency service across Edinburgh
- ✓ Professional workmanship guarantee
Final Thoughts
Choosing a reliable electrician in Edinburgh doesn't have to be complicated. Focus on verified qualifications, proper insurance, transparent communication, and a professional approach. Don't be swayed solely by price - electrical work is about safety first.
Take your time, ask questions, and choose an electrician you trust. Your safety and peace of mind are worth it.