New home construction is complex and has numerous components that must be considered. One of the most important, and unfortunately the most overlooked, is the home’s electricity. Improperly installed electrical components could lead to disaster. Whether you are building a home from the ground up or you are in the process of adding on to your existing home, it is important you call in an electrical contractor at the right time to avoid costly (and even deadly) errors in your electrical work.
When Should I Contact an Electrician?
Electrical contractors should be called in before construction of your house begins or the foundation poured. The contractor can go over your architectural plans and start drafting an electrical plan for the house—working in conjunction with your architect. That way your architect can make any necessary changes to accommodate electrical requirements.
Then, your electrical contractor should be brought in again once the home is framed and the roof is in place. Your electrician will need to make sure any circuits and wiring work done is in accordance with the National Electric Code, and they will be present during any safety inspections.
The Benefit of Calling an Electrician Early
While you could wait until your home is ready, contacting an electrician early on (preferably during the planning phase) offers clear benefits, including:

• Customized Electrical Options – Whether you want recessed outlets, additional plugs in the bathroom or your home wired for a sound system, calling in a professional early can ensure your architect’s plans accommodate these customizations.
• Safety Features – Your electrician can consult with your architect regarding all electrical safety. Also, if you plan on installing a back-up generator, you need your architect to plan adequate space for that before the foundation is poured.
• Costly Changes Can Be Avoided – By having your electrician’s input ahead of time, you can avoid having costly changes made to your HVAC, roof or even framing. All of the home’s structural components will be designed to accommodate building codes as well as your electrical needs.

Don’t Wait to Consult An Electrician – Start Now
Even if you are just shopping around for lots, you need to start thinking about what features you want in your home. Think about ceiling fans, yard lighting, swimming pools, outside outlets, security systems, etc. The more you have planned out, the easier a consultation with your experienced electrical contractor will be.
Call 732-332-1100 or fill out an online contact form to consult the experts at JLC Electrical Contractors. Whether you have already started your new home or you are in the planning phase, we can plan out the perfect electrical system that maximizes the efficiency of your new home.