While the temptation to hire the cheapest handyman you can find is real, playing with electricity is a job best left to the professionals. Faulty electrical work is a serious matter, leading to risks of electrical shocks, fires and damages that can cost a fortune to repair.
1. The Golden Rule: Hire An EMA-Licensed Electrician
The Energy Market Authority (EMA) is the government body that regulates all electrical services in Singapore. Under the Electricity Act 2001, it is a legal requirement that almost all electrical work must be performed or directly supervised by a Licensed Electrical Worker, or LEW.
This strict licensing framework acts as a crucial protective shield for consumers. An EMA license is an assurance that the electrician has met rigorous standards. They have undergone extensive training, passed demanding assessments, and are required to adhere to Singapore’s stringent safety and quality codes, including the ones for residential electrical installations.
2. The Risks Of Hiring An Unlicensed Electrician
Hiring an unlicensed electrician to save a few dollars is one of the riskiest decisions a homeowner can make. The potential consequences far outweigh any initial savings.
- Safety Hazards: This is the most critical risk. Unlicensed electricians are often not properly trained. They might use substandard materials or are unaware of and do not follow safety codes. This can lead to shoddy work that creates a high risk of electrical fires, shocks, and system malfunctions.
- Legal and Compliance Issues: Any work that violates the national safety standard or other building codes can result in fines and legal complications, especially if it leads to an accident.
- Financial Liability: Licensed electricians are required to carry proper insurance. If an accident occurs during the job, an unlicensed worker’s lack of insurance means that you, the homeowner, could be left financially responsible for all damages and medical bills.
- Voided Warranties and Insurance: If an electrical fire or damage is traced back to non-compliant work done by an unlicensed person, your home insurance provider may refuse to cover the losses. Similarly, it can void warranties on your property or appliances.
3. Verifying An Electrician’s License
All Licensed Electrical Workers (LEWs) are issued a physical license card and are registered in a public online database, making verification easy.
Before allowing any work to begin, simply ask the electrician to show you their LEW license card. It should clearly display their photograph, full name, NRIC or ID number, and their license number. This is a standard professional practice, and any hesitation to produce this card is a major red flag.
For ultimate peace of mind, you can cross-reference the card with the official EMA database in just a few minutes. The authorities have designed this process to be as user-friendly as possible, lowering the barrier for any homeowner to perform this crucial check.
- Step 1: Navigate to the EMA’s e-Licence Information Services (ELISE) portal.
- Step 2: Look for the “Search for Licensed Workers” section on the portal.
- Step 3: Select the option “Electrical worker who offers services to consumers”.
- Step 4: You can search using one of several methods. If you have the license card, the most direct way is to search by the License Number. You can also search by the Worker’s Name. If you’re just looking for licensed professionals in your area, you can even search by Postal Code or Street Name.
- Step 5: Enter the information and the on-screen security code, then click search. The portal will confirm whether the individual holds a valid license, giving you the assurance you need to proceed.
4. Where To Look To An Electrician
Ask for Recommendations: This is the gold standard. Ask friends, family, colleagues, or neighbours who they have used and trusted. A personal referral is often the most reliable starting point.
Check Online Reviews: Use platforms like Google, Facebook, and our very own Places @WhereCrowded to check a company’s ratings and read detailed reviews from past customers. Look for consistent patterns in feedback, both positive and negative.
Use Vetted Services: Some platforms offer concierge services that connect you with pre-vetted and qualified professionals, saving you some of the initial legwork.
5. A Checklist For Homeowners
A reliable choice should satisfy all three of these criteria:
Official Credentials: Is the electrician officially licensed and insured?
- Verify their EMA license using the ELISE portal as your first step.
- Ask for proof of their public liability insurance. This protects you if their work accidentally causes damage to your property.
Social Proof: What is their reputation in the market?
- Check their experience. A company that has been operating for many years is generally a safer bet.
- Read online reviews in detail. Do they show up on time? Is their pricing transparent? Do they clean up after the job?.
Professional Conduct: How do they interact with you?
- Get at least three detailed, written quotes to compare. A refusal to provide a written quote is a major red flag.
- Evaluate their communication. Are they responsive, clear, and willing to answer your questions patiently? Or are they vague and pushy?
To learn more about what to look out for in a quotation, check out our price guide for engaging an electrician in Singapore.
6. Watch Out For Red Flags
Be wary of these warning signs, which often indicate an unreliable or unprofessional contractor:
Vague or Verbal-Only Quotes: A refusal to provide a detailed, written breakdown of costs is a major red flag. It leaves you vulnerable to “surprise” charges later.
High-Pressure Tactics: Being pushed to make an immediate decision or sign a contract on the spot. A professional will give you time to review the quote.
Large Upfront Payments: A reasonable deposit is standard, but a demand for full payment or a very large deposit (over 50%) before work even begins is highly suspicious.
“Too Good to Be True” Prices: An unusually low quote compared to others may signal the use of cheap, non-compliant materials, unlicensed labour, or a plan to add hidden costs later.
Hesitation to Show License or Insurance: Any unwillingness to provide proof of their EMA license and insurance is an immediate deal-breaker.
7. Conclusion: Powering Your Home with Confidence
Hiring an electrician in Singapore doesn’t have to be a daunting or expensive gamble. To ensure a safe and professional job every time, remember these three key takeaways:
- Always Verify First: Your first and most important action is to verify your electrician’s EMA license. This is your primary shield against unsafe work and financial risk.
- Get It in Writing: Never proceed with any work based on a verbal agreement. Insist on a detailed, itemized quotation that clearly outlines the scope, materials, costs, and warranty. This document is your contract and your protection.
- Prioritize Quality Over the Lowest Price: While budget is important, the cheapest quote is rarely the best value. A reliable, safe, and high-quality job from a licensed professional who stands behind their work with a solid warranty is a far better investment in the long-term safety and functionality of your home.
