How to Choose an Electrician in Denver (2025 Guide)
Electrical work is one of the most safety-critical trades in your home. A bad hire can mean fire hazards, failed inspections, or work that has to be torn out and redone. Here's how to hire right in Denver.
Find Electricians in DenverKey Takeaways
- 1Verify Colorado master electrician license through DORA before hiring
- 2Any electrician who suggests skipping permits is a disqualifying red flag
- 3Get 3 itemized written quotes for any job over $500
- 4Confirm who will actually perform the work — master or journeyman
Colorado Electrical Licensing Requirements
Colorado licenses electricians at the state level through DORA. Master Electrician: Can pull permits, design electrical systems, and supervise work. Journeyman Electrician: Works under master supervision.
Verify licenses at the Colorado DORA website before hiring. Denver also requires a city contractor license — ask for both.
The Permit Question Is Non-Negotiable
Any electrician who suggests skipping permits is a red flag. In Denver, unpermitted electrical work creates fire and safety hazards, must be disclosed at resale, may void homeowner's insurance, and requires expensive retroactive permitting.
Reputable Denver electricians include permit fees in their quotes and handle all applications.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
1. Are you a licensed master electrician in Colorado? 2. Are you insured — general liability and workers' comp? 3. Will you pull all required permits? 4. Who will actually do the work — you or a journeyman? 5. What warranty do you offer on labor? 6. Can you provide 2–3 references from similar Denver projects?
Red Flags to Avoid
Suggests skipping permits. Can't provide a Colorado license number. Requests more than 30% upfront. No physical business address. Significantly lower price than all other quotes. Vague scope — won't provide a written, itemized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an electrician need to be licensed in Colorado?
Yes. Colorado requires state licensing for electricians. Verify master electrician license through DORA. Denver also requires a city contractor license.
How do I verify an electrician's license in Colorado?
Check the Colorado DORA website at dora.colorado.gov. Search by name or license number.
Should I get multiple quotes for electrical work?
Yes — get at least 3 written, itemized quotes for any job over $500. Electrical pricing varies significantly.
Ready to hire?
Get free quotes from verified electricians in Denver.
Find Electricians Also: HVAC Get Free QuoteRelated Guides
Find Contractors Near You
More Denver home improvement guides