NDSEB: Electricians need N.D. licenses

Due to increased work activity in North Dakota and the economic downturn across the United States, the North Dakota State Electrical Board has seen an increase in individuals contracting to do electrical work without the required electrical license. Anyone hiring an electrical contractor should make sure the individual is licensed with the NDSEB.

NDSEB has issued several cease and desist orders as well as pursued criminal charges against these individuals for contracting to do electrical work without a license and advertising illegally.

Hiring an unlicensed electrical contractor may save money in the short term, but correcting mistakes because of shoddy workmanship later will cost more in the long run not only financially but also because of increased risk and liability, the board said. In addition, many of these individuals are unreliable and eventually disappear. Electrical contractors are licensed because it ensures accountability to the consumer.

In order to minimize customers’ risk, NDSEB urges consumers to follow these tips:

* Verify the individual’s identity;

* Check for the electrical contractor’s state business license number (issued by secretary of state);

* Ask to see his/her plastic pocket electrician’s ID license card (issued by North Dakota State Electrical Board; out of state licenses do not transfer);

* Verify the electrical contractor is insured and bonded; and

* Don’t pay in cash.

Information can be found through the electrical board’s website at www.ndseb.com, sending an email to electric@nd.gov or calling 701-328-9522.

Tags: business, construction