To choose a licensed electrician in New Jersey, hire a licensed Electrical Contractor, confirm the license number with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs, and make sure the work is bonded, insured, and permitted. Get the price in writing before any work starts.
Below is a simple checklist you can use before you sign anything.
How do I know an electrician is licensed in NJ?
You know an electrician is licensed in New Jersey when they hold an Electrical Contractor license and can give you the license number. In New Jersey, only a licensed Electrical Contractor can do electrical work in your home for pay.
The license number is short, like 15918. Ask for it before the job starts. Then you can check it yourself.
Here is how to verify it:
- Ask for the full business name and the license number.
- Look it up on the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs website, under the Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors.
- Make sure the name on the license matches the person or company you are hiring.
What does bonded and insured mean?
Bonded and insured means you are protected if something goes wrong. A bond covers you if the work is not finished or not done right. Insurance covers damage or injury during the job.
Ask for proof of both. A good electrician will not mind showing you.
| What to ask for | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Electrical Contractor license | Only licensed contractors can do the work in NJ |
| Liability insurance | Pays for damage to your home during the job |
| Bond | Protects you if the work is not completed |
| Workers' comp | Keeps you from paying if a worker gets hurt |
Do I need a permit for electrical work in NJ?
Yes. Most electrical work in New Jersey needs a permit and an inspection under the NJ Uniform Construction Code. This includes panel work, new circuits, and a lot of repairs.
The permit is not just paperwork. A town inspector checks the work to make sure it is safe and up to code. That inspection protects you and the next owner of your home.
Watch out for anyone who says you can skip the permit to save money. Work done without a permit can cause problems when you sell, and it may not be safe. A licensed contractor pulls the permit as part of the job. You can see how this works on our [electrical inspections](/services/electrical-inspections/) page.
Should I get the price in writing?
Yes, always get the price in writing before any work begins. A written estimate lists the work, the parts, and the cost. It keeps both sides honest.
A good written estimate should include:
- The name and license number of the contractor
- A clear list of the work to be done
- The cost of parts and labor
- Whether permits and inspection are included
- A start date and a rough finish date
What are the red flags when hiring an electrician?
The biggest red flags are no license number, cash only, no permit, and door-to-door pressure. These are warning signs that someone may cut corners or take your money and leave.
Walk away if you see any of these:
- They will not give you a license number.
- They want cash only and no receipt.
- They tell you no permit is needed for big work.
- They knock on your door and push you to decide fast.
- The price is way lower than everyone else with no clear reason.
- They cannot show proof of insurance.
What questions should I ask an electrician?
Ask a few simple questions before you hire. The answers tell you a lot about who you are dealing with.
- Are you a licensed Electrical Contractor in New Jersey? What is your license number?
- Are you bonded and insured? Can I see proof?
- Will you pull the permit and handle the inspection?
- Do you do the work yourself or send a subcontractor?
- Can I get the full price in writing first?
Why homeowners trust Harrelson Electric
Harrelson Electric is owned by Bruce Harrelson, a Master Electrician since 1988. That is 38 years of hands-on work in Central New Jersey. Bruce holds NJ License #15918 and is bonded and insured.
When you call, you get Bruce. No subcontractors show up at your door. The same licensed electrician does the work, pulls the permit, and stands behind the job.
Estimates are free, and the price comes to you in writing. Based in South River, NJ, Harrelson Electric serves homeowners across Central NJ.
Ready to talk to a real licensed electrician? Call (800) 732-0585 or [request a free estimate](/contact/) today.