How To Start Electrical Company In South Africa

How To Start Electrical Company In South Africa

What is Electrical Company?

An electrical contractor is a business person or firm that performs specialized construction work related to the design, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems

How To Start Electrical Company In South Africa

With your DOL registration you will be able to do electrical installation work, either working for a company that you like, or you can even start your own business. It opens doors and opportunities, and it is a very valuable certification in a market that’s desperate for qualified, skilled electricians. 

To get your DOL certification you will need to have the following:

  1.       The relevant trade qualification or degree
  2.       Your Wireman’s License or employ someone with a Wireman’s License
  3.       Pass the trade test
  4.       NQF Level 3 minimum with a Technical Senior Certificate
  5.       passed the SANS 10142-1 national exams – the Installation Rules exams

It is worth noting that, if you wish to start your own electrical contractor company, you do not need to have your own Wireman’s License.

What you DO need is someone with this license. You will need their registration card as part of the DOL application process to offer services as an electrical contractor. This doesn’t mean that you can now start doing electrical tasks – you have to be qualified – but you can start a business.

Passing the trade tests, the NQF Level 3 examinations and the SANS 10142-1 national exams are all done through accredited organisations and these qualifications are affirmed by an ESETA assessor as part of getting your Wireman’s License. That step is one of the most demanding and will take up most of your time – up to five years in some cases. 

Now it is time to submit your application to the Department of Labour (DOL).

You can find the DOL application form on their website. Fill it in, submit all the paperwork, and pay your application fee using the correct account reference information. Currently, this is R120 for one year, but you may apply for up to three years. There can be significant delays at the DOL and you want to ensure your contractors registration remains valid.

The paperwork you need to submit includes:

  • A certified copy of your qualification
  • ESETA letter proving your completion of the unit standards and their certification
  • Two copies of your ID, certified
  • The completed application form from the DOL
  • Proof of payment to the DOL for the three- or one-year certification
  • Proof of Installation Rules pass and certification
  • Two certified copies of your Wireman’s License
  • Refer to EIR Annexe 3 for a comprehensive breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs.)

How much does it cost to start an electrical business in South Africa?

The startup capital needed to start an electrical shop business in South Africa differs depending on how big or small you choose to operate from the start, and on average, a capital that ranges between R15,000 – 300,000 is required to set up an electrical shop business in South Africa.

How long does it take to become an electrician in South Africa?

Becoming a qualified and licensed electrical worker can take as little as 2 years for an electrical serviceperson, or 4 years for an electrician or electrical engineer

What do electricians charge per hour in South Africa?

Electricians usually charge between R350 to R700 per hour. Most homeowners pay a typical range between R500 and R5000 for an electrician to visit their home and complete electrical repairs. Both hourly and project rates vary depending on the type of project, license and experience of the service provider.

How do you calculate labor cost for electrical installation?

To calculate the price of electrical work, you should multiply your hourly labor rate by the number of hours the job will take to complete. If any extra materials are required for the job, be sure to add that to the total cost.

What is service mains electrical engineering?

Service mains is tapping of electrical energy from the supplier’s pole to consumers premises. Or it is a means of providing electric power supply from the existing pole up to the meter board.

How much does it cost to wire a 3000 square foot house in South Africa?

The cost to rewire a 1,000 sq. ft. home is $2,000 to $6,000, or about $2 to $4 per square foot. Rewiring a house over 2,500 sq.

Is being an electrician hard?

Dealing with electrics can be a tricky job, you have to have a great understanding of practical installation skills, electrical diagrams and health and safety.

How much do you need to start an electrical business in South Africa?

The costs for starting an electrician business vary, but generally include licensing, insurance, fees for union dues, overhead and equipment costs, and rent for office space. In general, many startup companies spend at least $5,000 to get started.

Is electrical business profitable?

Ans: With the constant rise of technology and demand for electrical goods, this business is a profitable one.

How do electricians get clients?

Making videos to post on your YouTube channel, website, blog, or other social media accounts can be an effective way to earn electrician business online. It will show potential customers that you’re willing to help them for free and build your reputation as an expert in your craft.

Can an electrical engineer start a company in South Africa?

There are several companies seeking electrical engineers out there, and with good compensation plans. But if you, as an electrical engineer, does not want to work with any company, you can set up your own business.

Are electricians in demand in South Africa?

Are electricians in demand in South Africa? Considering the increasing demand for energy, electricians are becoming more and more important in South Africa. Electrical engineering tops the National Scarce Skills List, and this high-growth sector offers an abundance of job opportunities.

How much does a qualified electrician earn in South Africa?

The average pay for an Electrician is ZAR 298,163 a year and ZAR 143 an hour in South Africa. The average salary range for an Electrician is between ZAR 217,828 and ZAR 369,573. On average, a High School Degree is the highest level of education for an Electrician.