Can You Do Your Own Electrical Work in New York State?

Understand all applicable regulations and laws before attempting any electrical work in New York State. Learn what type of projects require a licensed electrician.

Can You Do Your Own Electrical Work in New York State?

Most municipalities in New York State allow anyone to perform electrical work. Some of the largest cities and towns in the state require the person doing electrical work to have a license. An electrician must have a license from the Department of Buildings to perform electrical work in New York City. The legality of electrical work done by yourself varies from state to state and from municipality to municipality.

If you're considering taking on an electrical project yourself, it's important to understand the regulations and laws that apply in your area. Always call your local permit office for the answer that interests you. Hobbyists can carry out perfectly functional electrical projects that do not comply with the code and, therefore, can cause problems when it comes time to inspect the house for sale. The operation of electrical systems is the new design and installation, alteration or repair of any electrical cable, wiring device and other equipment used or to be used for the transmission of electricity for the transmission of electrical light, heat, energy, signaling, communication, alarm and data transmission.

If you intend to save money on remodeling costs, the first place to start is with highly skilled trades, such as electricians.

Self-employed electrical work, with good reason, can be a daunting project, and there's no shame in calling in a qualified electrician for even the smallest project, such as installing a light switch or changing an electrical outlet. Compared to installing or demolishing drywall or any other type of renovation work, electrical work is clean. On the contrary, it is usually a modified and reduced test designed to ensure that the owner knows some of the basic aspects of the electrical code before starting the electrical work.

Replacement and repairs, listed below, require a licensed New York City master electrician and an electrical permit, but do not require a DOB inspection for this type of work. Contact with the lugs of the service panel is a very serious matter, but the operation of the service panel is only one aspect of electrical work. Many self-employed home renovators aren't afraid to pick up a hammer and saw, but they may be reluctant to carry out electrical repairs. This is not the same as the extensive exam taken by people who want to become certified electricians or master electricians. For example, many DIYers are put off by the idea of inspecting the electrical service panel and installing new circuits. No installation or modification of any electrical system may be performed without a permit and without a licensed master electrician.

If you're considering taking on an electrical project yourself, it's important to understand all applicable regulations and laws in your area before beginning any work.