How to choose an electrician in Singapore.

The short answer: choose an electrician who is licensed, gives you an itemised written quote before starting, tests the work before handover, and puts the warranty in writing. Compare at least two quotes line by line, not just the total.

The seven questions

1. 1

   Who will carry out and sign off the work?

   Electrical installation work at consumer premises in Singapore must be carried out by, or under the supervision of, a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW) registered with the Energy Market Authority (EMA). Ask who is responsible for the work and how their licence can be checked. Our guide to verifying a licensed electrician shows how.

2. 2

   Is the quote itemised and in writing?

   A good quote lists each point, board or fitting with its price, so you can compare two electricians fairly. A single lump sum with no breakdown makes comparison and later disputes harder.

3. 3

   What does the price include?

   Ask whether fixtures are supplied, whether making good and disposal are included, and whether after-hours work, permits or inspections cost extra. Surprises usually hide here.

4. 4

   What are the payment terms?

   Ask what is due on confirmation and what is due on completion. Be cautious of large payments before work starts. Ours is a 50% deposit on confirmation and the balance on completion.

5. 5

   Is the work tested, and do you get a record?

   Every circuit and point should be tested before handover, including that protective devices trip as they should. Ask what gets tested and how it is recorded.

6. 6

   Is there a written warranty?

   Ask how long it lasts, what it covers and what it excludes, and who you call. Our workmanship warranty is 12 months from handover, in writing.

7. 7

   How quickly do they respond?

   How fast an electrician answers before you hire is a preview of how fast they answer after. We respond to call-outs within 24 hours.

Which questions matter most for your job

• HDB flat rewiring or new points: the licence, the itemised quote, and whether wiring is surface or concealed. See what jobs start at.
• Condo or landed renovation: coordination with your designer and the schedule. Designers can see how we work on our trade partners page.
• Office, retail or F&B: after-hours access, records of each visit and call-out response. See commercial and strata electrical.

Before you decide

Read our electrician cost guide for what electrical work costs in Singapore, and about Saikon for how we work. To get an itemised quote, send photos on WhatsApp.