FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Looking for a reliable electrician in Torbay or South Devon? Below are answers to some of the questions that are asked most often about electrical work, EICRs, EV charger installations, emergency callouts and electrical repairs.
What areas do you cover?
Torbay, including Paignton, Torquay and Brixham, as well as Newton Abbot, Totnes, Exeter and wider South Devon.
Are you fully qualified and insured?
Yes, Jim is fully qualified, NICEIC registered and fully insured for your peace of mind.
Are you NICEIC Registered?
Yes. Hopkins Electrics is NICEIC registered, giving customers confidence that all work is carried out to current electrical regulations and industry standards.
Do you offer emergency electrician services?
Yes, Jim provides emergency callouts in Torbay and the surrounding area, and aims to respond as quickly as possible.
Can you replace my fuse box?
Yes, Hopkins Electrics can upgrade your fuse board to a modern, safer consumer unit that meets current regulations and improves electrical safety in your property.
Do you install outdoor lighting ?
Yes, Hopkins Electrics can absolutely install outdoor lighting for homes, businesses and holiday lets.
Do landlords need an EICR certificate?
Yes, landlords are legally required to have an up-to-date Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to ensure the property is safe.
Can you provide EICRs for home buyers?
Yes. If you're buying a property in Torbay or South Devon, an EICR can identify potential electrical issues before purchase and help you avoid unexpected costs.
How often should an EICR be carried out?
For most rental properties, an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) must be carried out at least every five years. Landlords may also require a new EICR at the start of a tenancy or if recommended by a previous report. If you're unsure whether your property requires an updated electrical safety certificate, Hopkins Electrics can advise and carry out EICR inspections across Torbay and South Devon.
How much do you charge? How much does an electrician cost in Torbay and South Devon?
All work is quoted at a fixed price, so you’ll know exactly what to expect before any work begins.
Emergency call-outs are priced individually depending on the location, time of day, and whether the call is during normal working hours or out of hours.
How far in advance are you usually booked?
Larger projects that take 3–4 days or more are typically booked around 3–4 weeks in advance.
Smaller jobs can usually be scheduled within 1–2 weeks, depending on availability.
Do you need to visit the property before providing a quote?
This depends on the type of work required.
For larger or more complex projects, a site visit is usually recommended so an accurate quotation can be provided. For smaller jobs, it’s sometimes possible to provide an estimate over the phone with the help of photos and a brief description of the work needed.
How long does it take to receive a quote?
Quotations are normally sent within 5–7 days following a site visit.
How quickly will you respond to my enquiry?
Every effort is made to respond to enquiries as quickly as possible.
For emergency electrical issues, it’s always best to get in touch by phone for the fastest response.
How quickly can an electrician attend an emergency in Torbay?
Hopkins Electrics will make every effort to get to you as quickly as possible. How long it can take can depend on time of day, and where in South Devon I am working that day. The best thing to do is call to discuss.
When is the best time to have electrical work carried out?
Where possible, electrical work and alterations should be completed before decorating, flooring, carpets, or other finishing touches are installed.
This helps avoid unnecessary disruption or potential damage later on.
Do you install EV chargers in South Devon?
Yes, Hopkins Electrics provides EV charger installation in Devon for both domestic and commercial properties.
Covering South Devon, including Torbay, Teignbridge, Exeter, Plymouth and the surrounding areas
Do you carry out electrical work for businesses?
Yes, Hopkins Electrics can provide commercial electrical solutions to ensure your business has safe, efficient and reliable power - from office lighting and data cabling to comprehensive electrical maintenance.