Need a Home Services / Electrical Work Contract in South Carolina? AroundWire Can Help

In South Carolina, contracts for home services involving electrical work are governed by both state and local regulations designed to protect consumers and ensure safety. Contractors must hold a valid South Carolina Mechanical Contractor’s License with an electrical classification from the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR); for projects over $5,000, additional licensing or registration may be required. Contracts typically must be written, especially for residential projects, and should clearly outline the scope of work, materials, timeline, and total cost, as well as change order procedures. South Carolina law requires contractors to carry general liability insurance and, if they have employees, workers’ compensation coverage. Payment terms often include a modest deposit (not exceeding one-third of the contract price) with progress payments tied to project milestones; state law restricts excessive upfront payments to protect homeowners. Risk factors include compliance with the National Electrical Code and local building codes, with required inspections and permits; failure to obtain permits can void contracts and expose parties to penalties. Dispute resolution is commonly addressed through mediation or arbitration clauses, reflecting a preference to avoid lengthy litigation. Contract termination clauses, lien rights, and warranty obligations—typically one year for labor and materials—are standard. Homeowners have a statutory right to cancel certain contracts within three business days under the South Carolina Door-to-Door Sales Act, which may apply to some home electrical projects.