Modern laws regarding electrical installation in Los Angeles state that homeowners can do their electrical installations in their own homes so long as they do a reasonably good job. If there is a fire, electrocution, or other issue involving the electrics, then you can go to prison. If it injures a visitor to your house, you go to prison and get sued. You cannot undertake the electrics in a rented home or as a landlord for somebody else unless you have all the correct qualifications, licenses, and insurance.
Can I Change a Bulb in My House?
Some tasks are considered “Routine maintenance” that homeowners and even home tenants are expected to do on their own. These include things like changing batteries in fire alarms, changing bulbs, and so forth. In the old days, things like changing a fuse in a plug or changing a plug were also seen as general maintenance. However, it is now frowned upon. If you are doing electrical things to appliances like microwaves and such, then strongly consider contacting the seller or manufacturer, or having it repaired. On the other hand, there are lots of YouTube videos on how to fix up household appliances, and some can save you a lot of money, so perhaps do a little research first and then choose how you should proceed.
You Need a License to do Electrical Work for Hire
It is up to you if you want to do your electrical tasks in your own house, you are liable if there is a fire, electrocution, or some sort of damage. However, you need a license and insurance if you sell your services as an electrician. This also counts if you have a landlord and you say you will do your electric work for a reduction in rent or a fee. If you own the house, and you are doing electrics for projects that will affect more than just your house, then you need a license. Unless you are doing something simple like hanging Christmas lights in your neighbor’s garden, then you will need a license and insurance to operate.
Can a Homeowner Upgrade an Electrical Panel in California?
You must satisfy the chief electrical code administrator to conduct your upgrade. They need to be sure about your ability to make the electrical service upgrade. You may need to take some sort of written or oral or examination. If you are a registered electrical contractor, then you can apply for the permit without a test. Otherwise, as the homeowner and/or the person doing the upgrading, you will need a permit.
You Shouldn’t Be Doing Your Electrics
Let’s face it, your entire life runs on electricity and it is a dangerous element in your house. Of all things, it should be the last thing you try to “Cheap out” on. Get it wrong, even though a simple and honest mistake, and you put people, yourself, and your staff in danger. If you have an electrical problem that goes beyond routine maintenance, or there is an electrical installation in Los Angeles needed, then call in somebody from the team at USA Electrical Repairs. Get the job done right by experts!
