Most people only think to ask these questions after a job's gone badly, which is exactly backwards. Here's what's worth asking before you book anyone, not after.
"What's Your Licence Number?"
This should never feel like an awkward question, because it isn't one. Electrical work in Victoria requires a licensed electrician, full stop — it's not a preference, it's the law, and it exists because unlicensed electrical work is a genuine safety risk, not just a paperwork technicality. A legitimate electrician will give you their licence number without hesitation. Reluctance to answer is itself useful information.
"Are You Insured?"
Licensing and insurance aren't the same thing, and both matter. If something goes wrong on the job — property damage, an injury — insurance is what determines whether that's covered or whether it becomes your problem. Ask specifically, don't assume.
"Will You Look at the Job Before Quoting?"
For anything beyond a simple, obvious swap, a phone-only quote is a guess wearing a price tag. A electrician who wants to actually see the switchboard, the roof space, or the scope of the job before committing to a number is doing it properly. One who quotes a firm price sight-unseen for anything complex is either very confident or not being straight with you.
"What's Included in the Price?"
Ask specifically whether the quote includes materials, whether there's a callout fee separate from the labour, and what happens if the job turns out bigger once they're on site. A good quote answers this without you having to dig for it.
"What Warranty Covers the Work?"
Not just "do you offer a warranty" — ask what it actually covers and for how long. A specific, stated warranty is a sign of someone confident in their own work. A vague "yeah we stand by it" with no actual terms is worth a follow-up question.
"Can I See Recent Reviews or References?"
Reasonable to ask, and a legitimate business won't dodge it. It's a much better signal than a flashy van or a professional-looking website — including, frankly, this one.
The Short Version
Licence number, insurance, a proper look before quoting, a clear price breakdown, a real warranty. Five questions, and you'll know within the first phone call whether you're talking to someone worth hiring.
If you're weighing us up against that list, our About page covers who we actually are, or you can just call and ask us these exact questions directly.