Can a homeowner do their own electrical work on your job?

Work it through

You're the contractor. Pick what you'd do, then see how each choice plays out.

Sarah Mitchell

First-time homeowner who wants a kitchen renovation

Listen

1. AAdvise against it. Electrical work requires a licensed electrician in Maryland. As the general contractor, you could be liable if unlicensed electrical work fails inspection or causes a fire
   Correct

   Electrical work in Maryland requires a licensed master electrician or licensed journeyman working under one. A homeowner doing their own electrical on a permitted project creates inspection problems — the inspector will check the electrician's license. If the work is under your contract and your permit, unlicensed electrical work by the homeowner jeopardizes YOUR inspection and YOUR liability. Additionally, insurance won't cover fires from unlicensed electrical work.

2. BLet her save the money — homeowners can do their own electrical in their own homes
   Risky

   While homeowners CAN obtain electrical permits for their own primary residence in some jurisdictions, this work is under YOUR contract and YOUR project permit. If Sarah's DIY electrical fails inspection, your entire project is held up. If it causes a fire, your general liability exposure is enormous. As prime contractor, the safest answer is always: hire licensed trades.