Can I start an electrical company with only Level 2?

[Gareth699]

Hi,

I have experience as a sparks, and wanted to head it out on my own as self-employed whilst I undertake my level 3 on home study. What would be the deal on signing off work etc & could I undertake work?

Many thanks,

Gareth

 

[Adam W]

The thing about being self-employed and signing off your work is it's your neck on the line if something goes wrong.
Would you be able to stand up and argue that you used all due diligence when it could be argued that you weren't even qualified to be doing the work in the first place?

 

[PEG]

I would argue that you can start up in the trade with a lot less than that...i've seen the proof and sorted the mess...

 

[Rpa07]

What experience do you have? Give more information of your experience, you’ll probably get the same answer 20 times but at least we’ll know more about this experience and why you think you’re ready.
Also it’ll save Pete999 raving about a lack of information!

 

[Gavin John Hyde]

can you work - yes
should you work - only you know if you are skilled and wise enough to work within your limits.
signing off work - so long as you got your 17th, a testing qualification 2392 or 2391 etc... then the niceic will welcome you with open arms once you got a multi tester, some insurance and a calibration cert.

Experience is the key in this job, no shortcuts to be had, i still learn things everyday

 

[Martyn Fletcher]

There's also the issue of man in a van firms who have no time gained experience, no formal qualifications, no actual insurance and no real chance of being sued for all their fug ups.
They start off by pricing themselves to get lots of cheap and cheerful jobs, build up a reputation (good or bad) and eventually start getting brave enough to take on bigger jobs until all the drawbacks above get lost in the mists of time.
Do you think I know of a few around here?
I even heard of three vans with NICEIC displayed when they are no longer registered. Two of whom have apparently already been prosecuted once.
You just can't fight overly frugal customers and persistent offenders with anger and resentment, because they will always find each other. Better to look inwardly and consider what you can do better and let the rat race run.
All that wasn't necesarily directed at you Gareth other than to let you know that anyone can say "I have experience" and anyone can find work, but to find much needed support on a forum such as this you may find that you need to back up the statement a little better. Good luck fella.

 

[robd]

Do yourself a favour and learn on somebody else's time. Go on your own when you know what you are doing...in my opinion.

 

[robd]

I should expand....you will make mistakes and never stop learning but it is better to make those mistakes when you are on the books than for yourself. You will probably look back in 10 years and think I can't believe I used to do that like that. Don't rush go self employed when you are ready.