What to Look For
- ✓
Licensed and insured
Always verify your electrician holds a current state electrical license and carries liability insurance. Ask for both before signing anything.
- ✓
EV charger experience
Ask specifically: 'How many EV charger installations have you done?' Look for 10+ installs. EV charging draws unusual loads and requires knowledge of EVSE-specific code requirements.
- ✓
Permit-pulling willingness
Any legitimate electrician will pull a permit without hesitation. If an installer suggests skipping the permit to save money, walk away — this is a red flag.
- ✓
Manufacturer-authorized (if relevant)
For warranty protection, some charger manufacturers (ChargePoint, Wallbox) prefer their chargers be installed by certified contractors. Check the manufacturer's website.
- ✓
Written, itemized quotes
Get a written quote that itemizes labor, materials, permit fees, and the charger itself (if purchasing through them). Never accept verbal quotes only.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Watch out for these red flags
- ✗Suggests skipping the permit
- ✗Gives only a verbal quote
- ✗Cannot provide a license number on request
- ✗Wants full payment upfront before any work
- ✗Quotes significantly below all other estimates (often means cutting corners)
What a Fair Quote Looks Like
For a standard Level 2 installation (panel has space, charger location is in the garage near the panel):
| Labor (2–4 hours) | $150 | $400 |
| Materials (wire, conduit, breaker) | $50 | $150 |
| Permit fee | $50 | $200 |
| Total (not including charger) | $250 | $750 |
Quotes outside this range (much higher or much lower) deserve explanation. Higher may indicate a complex job; lower may indicate cut corners.
The Easiest Way: Use ChargeCasa
We pre-screen installers so you don't have to. Every installer in our network is licensed, insured, experienced with EV chargers, and committed to pulling permits. Get a free quote and we'll match you within 1 business day.