Electric Questions to Ask Before Starting Your Home Addition
Home additions can be an excellent way to increase your home's value and accommodate your growing needs. However, before you start your home addition project, it's essential to consider the electrical services required to ensure that your new space is safe and functional. Below, we outline what you should consider concerning electrical needs for your addition.
1. What Are Your Electrical Needs? | Initial Assessment
Before starting your home addition project, you need to determine your electrical needs. Consider the number of electrical appliances and devices you'll be using in your new space. Consult with an expert electrician who can help you identify the right electrical capacity to support your needs.
1a. Will You Need to “Heavy-Up?”
Heavying up involves increasing your home’s amperage (i.e. electrical power). In many home addition projects, you will need to increase the electrical power to accommodate your new electrical needs. This is especially true in older homes and properties.
2. Do You Have an Electrical Layout Plan?
Once you've determined your electrical needs, you need to plan your electrical layout. This includes deciding the locations of electrical outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures.
You also need to ensure that your new electrical system is up to code and meets all safety standards. An experienced electrician can advise you on whether your proposed plans are up to code.
3. Have You Hired a Professional Electrician?
Electrical work requires specialized knowledge and expertise. It's essential to hire a professional electrician who has the experience and skills to handle your home addition project. A professional electrician can ensure that your electrical system is installed correctly and meets all safety standards.
4. Did You Leave Some Wiggle Room in Your Budget?
When planning a home addition project, it's essential to leave a buffer in your budget to account for unforeseen issues. No matter how meticulously you plan, unexpected problems can and often do arise, particularly when it comes to electrical work.
You might discover outdated wiring that needs to be replaced, encounter issues with the existing electrical panel's capacity, or need to address safety concerns that require additional fixtures or rewiring. These unexpected expenses can quickly escalate, straining your budget and causing unnecessary stress.
Having a contingency fund allows for flexibility and adaptability, two key factors in the successful completion of any home addition project. Also, having a buffer can save you both time and emotional energy. Instead of scrambling to find additional funds or cutting corners to stay within budget, you'll have the peace of mind knowing you're prepared to handle any curveballs that come your way.
5. Have You Obtained the Necessary Permits?
Before starting your home addition project, you need to obtain the necessary permits from your local building department. This includes electrical permits. Working with a professional electrician, they can help ensure that you obtain permits and handle the formal
Call (925) 395-4069 to Request an Estimate
A home addition project requires careful planning and consideration, especially when it comes to the electrical aspects of the project. At East Bay Electric, Inc., we have established a track record of delivering high-quality services to our clients. When you hire our team, you can expect our professionals to arrive on time, be courteous and respectful of you and your property, and offer you customized solutions.
Backed by over 15 years of industry experience, our team is more than prepared to help you handle the electrical service for your home addition. Complete our online contact form to discuss your home addition project and electrical needs with a member of our team.