What’s the difference between an electrician and an electrical contractor?

So, you need to employ someone to complete your electrical work, but you are seeing terms like ‘electrician’ and ‘electrical contractor‘ thrown around and you’re not sure what to do. Which is the correct one to employ? Can one complete more work than the other? These questions, plus many more, are very relevant queries to make and not many people would be able to answer them. This is why we have put together a little bit of information to let everyone know what the difference is between an electrician and an electrical contractor. If you have any further questions, feel free to give Captain Cook Electrical a call on 1300 911 307 to discuss.

What’s the difference between an electrician and an electrical contractor?

Electrician

An electrician is a licenced tradesperson that is authorised under the Australian Standards to conduct electrical services. They must however work for an electrical contractor or an electrical company – an electrician is not permitted to carry out electrical work for themselves and then charge clients for that work. 

Electrical Contractor

In comparison, an electrical contractor is an electrician that has undergone additional training and exams and has obtained an electrical contractors licence. An electrical contractor can work for themselves and charge a client once jobs are complete, as well as have electricians work from them.

Should you hire an electrician or an electrical contractor?

As an electrician can not work on their own by behalf by law, ensure that you are either employing an electrical contractor who works on behalf of themselves, or engage an electrical company that has electricians working for them. If you are unsure, ask to see a tradespersons licence and ensure that, if they are working for themselves, it resembles the above. They complete the same works, however one can only work for someone else, whereas the other can work on their own behalf.

Your electrical specialists in Sydney

If you have any questions regarding electricians, electrical contactors and electrical work, or would like one of our technicians to attend your home or office to fix an electrical issue, give Captain Cook Electrical a call on 1300 911 307 or complete an online job booking form today. We are specialists when it comes to practical and affordable electrical work, so get in contact now!

Resources :

Wikipedia (Electrical Contractor) : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrical_contractor

Workplace Health and Safety – Electrical Safety Office: https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/licensing-and-registrations/electrical-licences/classes-of-licences