Choosing Electrical Subcontractors

Think About:

• Licensed residential electrician w/ strong inspection history

• Ability to coordinate with:

  • HVAC (shared chases, dedicated circuits)

  • Plumbing (clearances from gas + pipe runs)

  • Low-voltage/tech integrators

  • Lighting designer or architect

• Knowledge of smart home systems + EV chargers

• Warranty support + responsiveness post-move-in

Subcontractors to Select:

• Electrical rough-in subcontractor (primary)

• Low-voltage / smart home subcontractor

• Alarm + security system installer

• Solar installer (if applicable)

• Generator installation company

• Meter base or service provider (sometimes utility-coordinated)

Choose tech-forward subs → homes are only getting smarter.

Choosing Electrical Materials

Think About:

• Wire sizing for:

  • Code

  • Voltage drop

  • Future flexibility

• Arc fault + ground fault requirements by location

• Noise interference → separate from low voltage lines

• Lighting layout from interior design plans

• Panel space for future expansion

Materials to Select (as applicable):

Wiring + Conduit:

• NM-B cable (Romex)

• MC armored cable (commercial-grade)

• Conduit (PVC or EMT, based on location)

• Grounding + bonding hardware

Switching + Controls:

• Standard switches/dimmers

• Smart switches / automation hubs

• Motion sensors

• 3-way/4-way location planning

Lighting:

• Recessed cans (IC rated, airtight)

• Feature lighting rough-ins

• Exterior lighting circuits

• Low-voltage lighting drivers

Power Systems:

• Receptacles (tamper resistant)

• Dedicated appliance circuits

• GFCI and AFCI devices

• EV charger circuit

• Surge protection

Equipment + Paneling:

• Main service panel + subpanels

• Breakers (type specific to panel)

• Meter base

• Solar interconnects (if needed)

Low Voltage:

• Data + coaxial runs

• Audio wiring

• Security wiring

Everything must reflect the lighting plan + appliance schedule.

Choosing Tools, Equipment & Rentals

Think About:

• Routing wires before insulation + drywall → avoid rework

• Proper labeling tools for easy future service

• Temporary power support

Tools & Equipment to Select:
Installation Tools:

• Wire strippers, pulling tools, fish tape

• Drill + hole saws

• Voltage testers + GFCI testers

• Labeling tools for wires + breakers

Access + Support:

• Scaffolding or ladders

• Temporary work lighting

• Temporary power panel or generator

Safety:

• PPE for cutting + drilling

• Lockout/tagout devices

• Arc-flash rated gear (if required)

Missing labeling equipment = nightmare service calls later.

Choosing Vendors & Supply Sources

Think About:

• Match brand to existing panel system to avoid compatibility issues

• Stock availability for common devices to avoid schedule lag

• Specialized lighting shipments can delay inspections

Vendor Types to Evaluate:

• Electrical supply house for wire + breakers

• Lighting distributors (showroom coordination)

• Smart home technology supplier

• Electrical tool supplier (labels, testers)

• Low-voltage cable provider

• Generator/solar equipment provider

Plan to order long-lead lighting items well ahead of rough-in.

Choosing Inspections & Documentation Support

Think About:

• Electrical is inspected multiple times → must pass cleanly

• Final inspection depends on labeling, panel schedule, grounding

• Photo documentation of:

  • Panel wiring layout

  • Nail plates over wires

  • Proper wire clamps @ boxes

Support Partners to Select:

• Inspector coordination lead (internal/sub)

• Panel labeling responsibility

• As-built diagram creation

• Smart home integrator sign-off

Documentation = lower maintenance costs + safety compliance.

Thank you for completing this Session!

Home Building Master Class | The Contractor Checklist

Video Explanation

www.thecontractorchecklist.com