Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
If it's not here, it's a phone call, not a mystery.
Estimates & getting started
Do you charge for an estimate?
We provide free estimates. A free estimate does not include any work that may be performed — if we can fix it on the spot, that becomes a separate conversation before anything gets done.
What happens after I send a request?
It reaches Nicole in the office. She sorts it by what you need and how soon you need it, then someone reaches out to you by the contact method you picked. If it is urgent, call instead — the form does not wake anybody up.
How far do you travel?
We work out of Winchester and cover about a 75-mile radius — Frederick, Clarke, Warren and Shenandoah counties in Virginia, plus the West Virginia Eastern Panhandle. We hold a Class A license in both states.
Do you work with homeowners, businesses, or both?
Both. Residential is most of what we do, and we take on light commercial work for local businesses.
The work itself
Should I try to troubleshoot it myself first?
You should never attempt large projects or troubleshooting on your own. Always consult a professional. Electrical mistakes are not the kind you get to learn from.
Do you handle permits and inspections?
Yes, on panel work we handle the permits and the inspections. You do not have to call the county.
Can you tell me if my panel needs replacing?
We can assess it and give you our honest feedback. Sometimes the answer is that it is fine and you should spend the money elsewhere.
Do you install generators?
Yes. We help you choose the right one for the house and install it, and we rent generators as well.
What is the satisfaction guarantee?
Satisfaction Guarantee — We strive to save you both time and money by combining experience, high quality parts and equipment, and exceptional service.
Emergencies
Are you really available 24 hours?
Yes — we run 24-hour emergency response. Regular hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm; weekends are by appointment or emergency. For an emergency, call (540) 533-7074. Do not use the form.
What counts as an electrical emergency?
Burning smells, scorch marks, a breaker that will not stay reset, sudden loss of power that is not the utility, buzzing or heat at an outlet or panel, or water in something electrical.
What should I do if I smell something burning?
If you see fire, smoke, or sparks, get out and call 911 first. Once everyone is safe, call us at (540) 533-7074 and we will come to you.
Excavation
Why does an electrician own an excavator?
Haywire Excavation began to assist in everyday operations of residential electrical work, like trenching for a car charger. It has since grown into its own division.
Do you pave driveways?
No. We do not work with asphalt at this time. We install, grade, resurface and repair gravel driveways and roads.
Is excavation a separate company?
Haywire Excavation, LLC is its own company with its own license (Class A Contractor #2705193663) and its own phone line ((540) 533-6081), run by the same people. Most customers only ever deal with one of us.
Still have a question?
Ask us directly — we’d rather explain than have you guess.