What questions do I ask an electrician?

<div>It’s important to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/ask-electricians-5-questions-hiring.htm">ask an electrician a few questions</a> before you commit to hiring them so you can make an informed decision as a consumer. If you’re getting estimates or considering hiring an electrician, ask them these questions:<ul><li>Are you a full-time electrician?</li><li>Are you bonded, licensed, and insured?</li><li>What level of experience do you have as an electrician?</li><li>Can you please share three references?</li><li>Do you do residential or commercial electrical work?</li><li>What kinds of electrical work are you most familiar with?</li><li>Will any subcontractors be performing the work?</li><li>Are permits and inspections required?</li><li>Who is responsible for obtaining permits and inspections?</li><li>What is your schedule?</li><li>Do you offer a guarantee or warranty on your work?</li><li>Will you sign a do-not-exceed clause to keep the job within the budget?</li></ul></div>

Do you get quotes from electricians?

<div>Yes, you should get a quote or an estimate from an electrician. Most electricians offer free estimates or quotes. When getting quotes, do your research and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-verify-electricians-license.htm">verify each electrician’s license</a>. Get quotes from three different electricians to compare. If the prices or items listed appear different on the quotes, ask the electrician to clarify. Learning as much as you can about the electrical work you want done will help you get the most accurate estimate. </div>

Should electricians be certified or licensed?

<div>Yes, although there are <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/different-types-electricians-explained.htm">different types of electricians</a>, they must be licensed, certified, and in most cases insured. States have different requirements for electrician licensing and certifications. In some cases, there may be licensing requirements at the local level, but not the state level. It’s always a good practice to confirm requirements with your local municipality. If licensing is not required in your area, you may pay more for a licensed electrician with experience than one who is not licensed or certified, but you’re likely to get a better end result for your project. As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include: <ul><li>The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check</li><li>Required to have applicable state and local licenses</li><li>Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review</li><li>Paying to advertise their services</li><li>Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi</li></ul>Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.</div>

Top 10 Best Electricians in West Des Moines, IA

Electrical Switches, Outlets & Fixtures Install or Repair

Verified Reviews for Electrical Service pros in West Des Moines, IA

*The Angi rating for Electrical Service companies in West Des Moines, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Electrical Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Electrical Service companies in West Des Moines, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Electrical Service needs.

Last update on August 09, 2025

Reviewed in March 2024
Perfect, it always does. I would recommend West Light Electric to anyone needing commercial or residential electrical work.
West Light Electric
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Reviewed in May 2012
I wanted to replace the main electrical panel in my 50+ year old house. I wasn't having any problems; just wanted to update that part of the electrical service. I received a prompt estimate in writing. The work was scheduled around my schedule. The panel was installed within about a week. ...
Eagle Electric Inc
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Reviewed in August 2012
John was very honest when providing his proposal as well as his electricians who completed the job. All the electrical repairs required passed Mid-American Energy Inspection as well as Urbandale, IA inspection meeting all local, state and federal codes. I received 3 estimates from 2 other...
A-1 ELECTRIC
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Reviewed in July 2018
Mr. Electric was very professional and flexible with my schedule. I loved the text feature that let me know when a technician was on his way. Will be booking for any future electrical needs.
Mr Electric of Central Iowa
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Reviewed in March 2024
Kyle is very knowledgeable in his field and very easy and down to earth to work with! Definitely would hire and recommend!
Southern Iowa Electrical
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Reviewed in January 2024
Needed the electrical service on my Shop replaced, called Bedwell Builders and they were quick to get me a quote, and replace the panel. Went above and beyond and worked with my schedule. Will hire again to do other projects when needed. 100% recommended
Bedwell Builders
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