Tool Box Talk For Electricians

Are EV chargers, solar PV, batteries and smart home gear actually good business for small electrical firms—or just headaches? In this chat with James, we cover the real-world pros and cons, training, pricing pressure, and where the trade is headed (smart controls, 3-phase to homes, AI, and more).What we cover:EV charger installs: routing, setup apps, support issues, car-dealer installs, grantsSolar PV & batteries: training, partners, ROI, warranties, call-backs, storage locationsNiche vs “do it all”: when to partner vs upskill, limited company risk, liabilityDomestic 3-phase: safety risks (cross-phasing), competence, when it makes senseSmart controls: kinetic/wireless switches, receivers, IP ratings, router quirks (2.4 vs 5 GHz)Reliability: where smart gear shines—and where it creates call-backsAccessibility & security: lighting for elderly users, smart locks pitfallsBusiness ops & AI: admin automation, bots for WhatsApp/website, what AI can’t replaceOld vs new homes: insulation, storage, media walls, real-world install tips

Running a profitable electrical business isn’t luck — it’s systems. In this episode, Ben and James break down exactly how we win work, keep customers coming back, price jobs without apologising, and present like pros on every visit.You’ll learn:Simple ways to turn one job into three (repeat work & referrals)What to say when a customer says “that’s expensive”Pricing logic vs. “day rate thinking”Presentation that sells: uniforms, shoe covers, mats, tidy workspaceCommunication that builds trust (ETAs, tracking, updates)Why punctuality + cleanup = instant 5-star reviewsDealing with “the last guy messed it up” jobsTools and workflows that save time (job management apps, end-of-job walk-throughs)Training apprentices the right wayWhen to say no, and how to protect your marginsIf you’re a UK electrician (domestic, commercial, AV/media walls), this chat is for you. Steal the scripts, the systems, and the small touches that make customers rave about you.

Are UK electrical governing bodies (NAPIT, NICEIC) actually worth it for working sparks? We dig into Part P, assessments, costs, contract requirements, building-control loopholes (EICR instead of notification), manufacturer influence on regs, data use/marketing, and why enforcement (vs Gas Safe) is so weak. We also share when registration is useful, alternatives for newbies, and what reforms would genuinely help electricians.Jump in the comments: Are you registered? Will you renew? What should change?

Spend a full “day in the life” with two UK electricians as we talk business, tools, pricing, qualifications, and how to actually get work in 2025. Check out Chris From TFS Here - linktr.ee/tfselectricalltdGoogle master class - https://gumroad.com/a/748252307/bcxnyGoogle offer templates - https://gumroad.com/a/748252307/clbrgkSEO Friendly Q&A x100 - https://gumroad.com/a/748252307/nzbkflGoogle update templates - https://gumroad.com/a/748252307/orujukGoogle master class. Done for you. By me - https://gumroad.com/a/748252307/beapqBen chats with Chris from TFS Electrical about going from apprentice to self-employed, the reality of running an electrical business, and why Google Business Profile Google Maps Map Pack now beats SEO, Checkatrade, and MyBuilder for service trades.We cover how to price jobs day rates vs fixed price, winning local work with reviews and keywords, avoiding race-to-the-bottom leads, and building a pipeline without spam. We also dive into qualifications City & Guilds L2 L3, NVQ, AM2, 18th Edition BS 7671, scheme membership NAPIT NICEIC Part P, subcontracting, QS sign-off, and the pros and cons of being Ltd vs sole trader liability, tax, directors’ guarantees.On the tools side AFDDs RCBOs, surge protection, consumer units, why Wago changed the game, inspection cams we regret buying, and which kit actually saves time. You’ll hear real job stories social housing, commercial fit-outs, casinos, bungalows, how to handle awkward callouts, and what’s next for UK electrics low-voltage lighting, smart controls, EV, solar, and more.What you’ll learn:How to get electrician jobs with Google Maps GBP reviews, service areas, photos, categories, keywords in customer reviewsWhy traditional SEO is weak for local trades vs the Map PackCheckatrade and MyBuilder pitfalls, lead costs and auto-renew trapsPricing strategy day rate targets, overheads, profit, admin timeLimited company vs sole trader for sparks risk and responsibilityScheme membership NAPIT NICEIC Part P when it helps and when it doesn’tTraining routes NVQ AM2 18th Edition, fast-track myths, QS optionsTools and materials we rate Wago, chasers and ones we don’tSocial housing realities, safety, and customer communication

Curious how I actually became an electrician—and why I started Toolbox Talks? In this chat on Beyond the Toolbox I spill everything: DC power days and global travel, the company collapse, apprenticeship lessons, burning out, coming back, starting my own business, and why I now make content to help tradies win.You’ll learn:• DC vs AC in the wild and how niche work shaped me• Apprenticeship tips for 16 and for 40• Keeping customers and simple Email Nails• Mental health on site: banter vs bullying• Smart tech, EVs, and the next 5–10 years• Why social media is your living CVIf this helped, drop a comment with your story, like and subscribe.Work with me / downloads / socials: LinktreeSubscribe to https://www.youtube.com/@wd40uk