Electrical work: when you need a competent electrician

When to definitely call a specialist

If you're unsure whether a job is “simple,” assume it isn't. Electrical faults don't always show up right away and can appear later.

• Replacing the panel, adding a new circuit, or rebuilding fuses.
• Running new wiring in walls or building a new permanent installation.
• Connecting an electric water heater, cooker, heat pump, or other large load.
• Electrical work in wet rooms.
• If a breaker trips repeatedly, an outlet or panel is warm, there's a burning smell, or lighting flickers for no reason.

Danger situation: what to do immediately

• If there are sparks, smoke, or a burning smell, switch off the relevant circuit or the main breaker if it's safe to do so.
• Don't use a suspicious device or outlet before it has been checked.
• In case of immediate fire or life danger, call the emergency number 112.
• If the problem is outside the building or involves the main breaker, contact the grid operator or building manager.

What to ask before hiring an electrician

• Do you have the required competence for this work, and is it valid?
• Is the call-out fee separate from the hourly rate, and how is travel time counted?
• Does the work include documentation — what was done, which circuits were changed?
• Are control measurements taken after the work, and will I get the results?
• Is the material included in the price?

How to describe an electrical work request

Write down what the property is (apartment, detached house, commercial space), when the building or installation was built, exactly what isn't working, and what you want to achieve. Add a photo of the panel with the labels and of the problem area. Note whether the power is currently on and whether it's an emergency situation.

Sources and clarification

Electrical safety requirements and competence requirements are regulated at the national level and may change over time. Ehitusabi24 does not interpret legislation — get the exact wording of a specific requirement from an official source or ask a competent specialist in writing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I replace an outlet myself?

Changing an electrical installation requires competence and safe working practice. If you're not sure about the requirements and how to verify the absence of voltage, order the work from a specialist.

Does Ehitusabi24 check electricians' competence?

For work requiring competence, we check register data and proof-of-competence documents. We do not display public star ratings.