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 Rochester, NY

Electrical Switches, Outlets & Fixtures Install or Repair

Verified Reviews for Electrical Service pros in Rochester, NY

*The Angi rating for Electrical Service companies in Rochester, NY 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 Rochester, NY 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 April 2024
No problems. Jeff is professional, kind and his work is top notch in my opinion. I only call him. He has completed three projects for me. Hire him.
Jeff Thomas Electric
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Reviewed in October 2024
Excellent work The technician was professional, extremely knowledgeable, affordable and fully credentialed in my area. I have found the electrical company to handle any electrical problems that may arise with my home and business. #greatfind
Photon Electric LLC
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Reviewed in January 2017
They located the problem and quickly fixed the issue. Plan to have them back to upgrade my electrical system. I highly recommend Nichols Electrical.
Nichols Electric & Plumbing
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Reviewed in April 2010
Bob did excellent work upgrading our electrical service. He researched and presented several options for the upgrade, and was meticulous about it being done right. Now we have better power and no unsightly electrical or cable wires overhead anymore. I would highly recommend him for...
Bob Shaw
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Reviewed in September 2022
Ellenwood Electric responded to a request for quote to upgrade our existing 100 amp electrical panel to a 200 amp electrical panel and was onsite within the week to perform a detailed walkthrough to prepare a scope of work and quote. Once the work was approved a date was scheduled and vendor...
ELLENWOOD ELECTRIC
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Electricians in Rochester

John Betlem Heating & Cooling Inc

John Betlem Heating & Cooling Inc

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

364 local quotes requested

John Betlem Heating & Cooling is a 3rd generation company founded in 1941. They provide Residential HVAC, Electrical and Insulation Services to Rochester, NY and the surrounding towns. John’s slogan that still holds true today is to do “whatever it takes” to satisfy customers. John Betlem is a premier family operated solutions provider, passionately committed to the health, safety, and comfort for all they serve.

"Estimate. Fantastic"

Linda C on April 2025

"Estimate. Fantastic"

Linda C on April 2025

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

42 local quotes requested

As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. We won't leave until the job is done right! Call or click to schedule an estimate today!

"Very well, he responded quicky and finished the job in a timely fashion."

Denise W on February 2024

"Very well, he responded quicky and finished the job in a timely fashion."

Denise W on February 2024

Customers say: True professional

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

53 local quotes requested

Jeff is a Licensed Master Electrician with 38 years experience in residential, commercial, and industrial work, with all installations in accordance with NEC and NFPA regulations. From simple electrical repairs and installations to more complex situations. Jeff has extensive experience in wiring full home additions and remodels. Jeff is a sole proprietor, working by himself. He's fully insured and licensed(#M5390).Jeff has a one time $50 service charge.

"Jeff was able to find a solution around the issue I had with being able to connect a new fan to a remote as well as install it to the ceiling. He did it all in a very timely manner but also took the time to listen to me and answer my questions."

Abigail P on July 2024

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 97% of Angi customers

55 local quotes requested

A & A Electric is a full service company and is fully licensed and insured. We provide service to any residential, commercial, and industrial electrical needs. We have full time employees on standby for 24 hour emergency service. A & A has up to date equipment including excavation tools and bucket trucks in order to complete all types of jobs

"Anthony was at my house within 30 minutes of my putting in a request. He was wonderful and found the problem within minutes, then fixed it. His company should get 10 stars!"

Linda G on June 2022

"Anthony was at my house within 30 minutes of my putting in a request. He was wonderful and found the problem within minutes, then fixed it. His company should get 10 stars!"

Linda G on June 2022

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 98% of Angi customers

43 local quotes requested

I am a licensed City of Rochester Master Electrician. Ellenwood Electric is a small 2-man operation, with offices in my home. I have been in business for over 25 years. Our specialty is residential troubleshooting, repairs, service upgrades and addition of new plugs, lighting and etc. "We Do It Without Shorts"

"A prompt response by Mark Ellenwood created a comprehensive, well-reasoned plan that also required coordination with the local utility and a tree trimming service. A fixed price was agreed and a tentative schedule presented. Ellenwood Electric coordinated the entire process . The 2 young men who performed the electrical work were skilled, competent, and courteous. Their work was praised by both the utility company personnel and the Ispector. And all work was completed for the exact agreed price."

Alan C on June 2025

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 98% of Angi customers

138 local quotes requested

Commercial Residential Specialty and General Electrical services We are for the people! Flexible Prices! Same Day Estimates! Ask About Our Discount! Fast Response! Buffalo Rochester Syracuse

"Very well. I would recommend him to others."

Michele G on August 2025

Commercial Residential Specialty and General Electrical services We are for the people! Flexible Prices! Same Day Estimates! Ask About Our Discount! Fast Response! Buffalo Rochester Syracuse

"Very well. I would recommend him to others."

Michele G on August 2025

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 91% of Angi customers

28 years of experience

Bill Shenck has been in the electrical field since 1997 with over 26 years of experience! We specialize in all your home improvement electrical needs, and guarantee you a job well done! All the way from electrical switches outlets & fixtures, to electrical panel upgrades, we are your guys! We strive to exceed the homeowners expectations each and every time, and get the job done the way YOU want it. We work in a timely fashion, and always pay attention to detail. We are available during evening hours and on Saturdays. Proudly Serving Rochester & surrounding areas. Free estimates. Call today!

"Professional and did work well. Would hire again. Highly recommend. "

Roberta L on July 2025

"Professional and did work well. Would hire again. Highly recommend. "

Roberta L on July 2025

Hurricane Home Solutions, Inc.

2025 Brighton Henrietta Town Line Rd

Hurricane Home Solutions, Inc.

2025 Brighton Henrietta Town Line Rd

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 97% of Angi customers

229 local quotes requested

Hurricane Home Solutions is committed to a superior experience, offering prompt service and attention to detail. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, we will earn your trust for a lifetime. We believe in being there for you when the lights go out, which is why we offer 24/7 emergency services. We work with major brands including Cummins, Generac and Champion to ensure that we can provide homeowners with the best unit for their unique circumstances. You can be assured you're in good hands with our company installing your new home generator. If you are looking for a professional that follows business practices such as promptly returning phone calls, arriving on time for appointments and following through on promises then give us a call today. GUARANTEED COMPETITIVE PRICING!

"Very good told me everything he was doing,ran through test,ect referred hurricane to neighbors, and they purchased. Good company and peple."

Bernard L on June 2025

"Very good told me everything he was doing,ran through test,ect referred hurricane to neighbors, and they purchased. Good company and peple."

Bernard L on June 2025

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

13 years of experience

At All Star Electric, we focus on quality electrical projects. We use our years of experience and expertise to complete your project with perfection. Customer service and honesty are the most important aspects of our business, and your complete satisfaction is guaranteed. Please call us today for an estimate!

"Work completed with satisfaction."

John S on June 2020

"Work completed with satisfaction."

John S on June 2020

W B Lightning Rods

560 Peoples Plaza Unit 234

560 Peoples Plaza Unit 234

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 98% of Angi customers

325 local quotes requested

WB Lightning Rods is a third-generation lightning protection contractor. Family Owned and operated for over 60 years. installing U.L. Listed Lightning protection systems, All Over the East coast, Midwest south east and south west regions of the U.S. Installations on Residential Homes, Estate Properties, Agricultural and Equestrian Properties. Lightning Protection for trees is also available. No job to big or small References upon Request. Contact us today for a no cost or obligation estimate. We look forward to working with you on your Lightning Protection Project. Thank you. **WE ARE NOT ELECTRICIANS** **WE ONLY INSTALL LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEMS **

"We replaced the original roof on our house. I expressed my concerns about re-installation of the lightening rods to my roofer. We have had at least three direct hits since they were originally installed in 2013. My roofer called William who was very helpful. William offered to come out an make sure everything was 100% after re-installation. He came the day after I called and I'm glad he did. While the reinstall was the best he had seen (his words) there were issues after 5 year and 3 strikes that needed addressed. He fixed those and now I have a new roof and I am certain the lightening rods will work as intended. Highly recommend this company."

Jeff W on April 2018

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FAQs for electrical service projects in Rochester, NY

It’s important to ask an electrician a few questions 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:

Are you a full-time electrician?
Are you bonded, licensed, and insured?
What level of experience do you have as an electrician?
Can you please share three references?
Do you do residential or commercial electrical work?
What kinds of electrical work are you most familiar with?
Will any subcontractors be performing the work?
Are permits and inspections required?
Who is responsible for obtaining permits and inspections?
What is your schedule?
Do you offer a guarantee or warranty on your work?
Will you sign a do-not-exceed clause to keep the job within the budget?

Tipping an electrician is not a requirement nor is it expected, as they build a fair wage into the price of the job. It’s up to your discretion. There are no set rules for tipping electricians, but if they did a great job and you’re so inclined to tip 10% to 15%, it will likely be received with thanks.

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 verify each electrician’s license. 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.

Qualified, licensed electricians will charge from $50 to $100 per hour. The cost to hire an electrician for emergency visits may range from $100 to $200 per hour because this urgent service usually takes place during off hours and may require an electrician to leave or reschedule jobs they’re currently working on. Scheduling work on holidays or during periods of high customer demand, like after a major storm, will also lead to higher rates or extra fees.

Yes, although there are different types of electricians, 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:

The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check
Required to have applicable state and local licenses
Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review
Paying to advertise their services
Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi

Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.