Ask to See Their License

As an electrical contractor who has lived in Chattanooga my entire life, I care about the safety of the people who call this city home. I’m raising my family here. I work inside Chattanooga homes every day. And because of that, I see something most homeowners never get to see: the growing number of unlicensed individuals performing electrical work in our community.



This isn’t a small issue. It’s becoming a real problem.

Why Licensing Matters More Than Most People Realize

Electrical work is not a trade you can learn from a few online videos or by shadowing someone who for a few months. To become a licensed electrical contractor in Tennessee, you must complete years of training, pass state exams, understand electrical code, and commit to doing work that protects the people living in the home.



Licensed contractors pull permits. They follow electrical code. They carry the responsibility for the safety of their work.

Unlicensed operators do not.

And here’s the part most homeowners never hear: even if an unlicensed contractor carries an insurance policy, that policy will not protect you. Insurance companies deny claims when the work was performed by someone who does not hold the proper license. That means if a fire starts, if a panel fails, if someone gets hurt, or if your home suffers damage because of improper electrical work, you could be left with the full financial burden.

Licensing isn’t paperwork. It’s protection.

The Hidden Risks Inside Your Walls

When unqualified individuals perform electrical installations or repairs, the dangers are real:



• Fire hazards from improper wiring
• Equipment failures that damage appliances or HVAC systems
• Electrocution/ shock risks to homeowners, tenants, and even first responders
• Long‑term issues that may not show up until years later

I’ve seen these problems firsthand. I’ve opened panels installed by people who had no business touching electrical equipment. I’ve seen homes where shortcuts were taken that put families at risk. And I’ve seen homeowners shocked to learn that the person they hired was never licensed to begin with.

A Simple Way to Protect Yourself

Before you hire anyone to work on your home’s electrical system, ask one simple question:



Can I see your electrical license?

A legitimate contractor will gladly show it. In fact, they’ll be proud to show it.

A dishonest contractor will avoid the question, make excuses, or try to convince you it’s not necessary. That’s your sign to walk away.

Under this article, I’m posting photos of my Tennessee Electrical Contractor License, my Hamilton County license, and my Chattanooga license. I want you to see exactly what a legitimate license looks like so you know what to ask for.

Your Home Deserves Qualified Hands

Electrical work is one of the most critical safety components of your home. You should never have to wonder whether the person working on it is qualified.

If you ever have questions about licensing, permits, or electrical safety, I’m always here to help. And if you choose Beacon Electrical Services, you’ll know exactly who is working in your home, a licensed professional who takes your safety seriously. You can email me directly at c.templebes@outlook.com

My message to homeowners is simple. Protect your home, your family, and your investment. Ask to see their license.

Class I Electrical Contractor

HCO Electrical Contractors License

Tennessee Electrical Contractors License