Is It Legal to DIY Electrical Work in North Carolina?
There are many DIYers out there who stand unafraid to pick up their toolbox and go to town on general home repairs, but find themselves wary of electrical work. When it comes to electrical work, this is a completely normal reaction. DIY electrical work can be challenging and complicated. For this reason, there’s no shame in calling in an electrician for even the smallest electrical repair project.
Some of you, though, may not be scared by the idea of completing a light switch repair in your own home, though. While we always recommend contacting a licensed electrician for electrical repair and installation jobs, we know that there are those out there who will insist on taking matters into their own hands. Those same people may be wondering: is it legal to do your own electrical work?
Is DIY Electrical Work Legal?
Let’s get one thing out of the way right off the bat: the legality of DIY electrical work varies from state to state, one municipality to the next. To understand the legality of doing your own electrical work where you live, always contact your local permit office.
In many communities, you can do your own electrical work as long as you can prove that you are the owner-occupant. Additionally, you must be able to prove that the work is being completed for your own benefit, rather than commercially. If this is the case in your area, you will likely have to require a temporary license to complete the work.
It should be noted that, in some cases, you will be required to take a test to obtain this temporary licensing. Typically, these tests are a modified, scaled-down version of the more extensive tests taken by those who wish to become licensed electricians. These tests are designed to ensure that the homeowner knows a few of the basics of electrical code before embarking on DIY electrical work.
Next, let’s look at the specifics regarding the legality of DIY electrical work in North Carolina- our service area.
Can You Perform Your Own Electrical Work Legally in North Carolina?
According to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement:
“The state of North Carolina allows homeowners to do their own wiring in their homes, provided the homeowner will personally will reside in the home, and that it is not for rent or intended for sale within one year after you complete the electrical installation. All electrical installations, changes, additions, or modifications to wiring systems are subject to permitting and inspections.”
So, to answer your question, you are permitted to complete your own electrical work in your home, provided that you adhere to the guidelines above. Still, as licensed electricians, we still encourage all North Carolina homeowners to use a professional electrician licensed in the state for any electrical wiring work.
Electrical wiring work can be highly dangerous (not to mention complicated) and this is the case even for the most experienced DIYers. Without having full knowledge of what you’re doing, you can put yourself, your family, and your property at risk. This is why we highly recommend considering a licensed electrical contractor near you for all electrical projects.
When Should You Call Professional Raleigh Electricians?
Even for those with a passion for doing their own home remodeling work, there are times where calling a professional is not only the smartest thing to do but is outright required. You need to keep in mind that the pros do this type of work every day. Jobs that require a steep learning curve (such as the electrical field) are second nature to qualified professionals that handle these types of tasks every day.
Put simply, there’s no shame in knowing that you don’t have the knowledge to complete a complicated electrical job. At the end of the day, you could give it a try but you would be putting your family and home at risk. It’s always best to call a qualified professional to see to your electrical needs.
Sure, you may be fully capable of a more simple ceiling fan installation job, but are you equally as confident when it comes to electrical wiring and challenging electrical installation work? Not many people are. Keep you and your family safe by always contacting a licensed electrical contractor in Raleigh.
Need electrical work done right the first time? Give us a call at (919) 359-1017 or Request an Appointment Online. We’re here for you 24/7. Our top-rated electricians have the skill and expertise to keep you powered on and safe. Thanks for reading!
Renee Rose
Renee is a freelance copywriter and blogger known for her expertise surrounding topics like marketing, freelancing, mental health, and more. She has written for hundreds of small business websites and is the Marketing Director here at Right Electrical Services, LLC. Renee believes that when a business prioritizes entertaining, engaging, and informational content for their readers, they can expect a loyal following that trusts their company.
