What Electrical Contracting Business Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 8
- 2 min read
Starting an electrical contracting business is an exciting venture—but it requires the right tools and equipment to get off the ground. Whether you're launching a residential, commercial, or industrial electrical contracting company, having the essential gear from day one ensures you can deliver quality work, stay safe, and meet client expectations.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping electrical contractors protect their businesses with tailored insurance solutions. But before you even think about coverage, you need to know what equipment to invest in first.
Why Choosing the Right Equipment Matters
The tools you choose impact your efficiency, safety, and ability to take on jobs. Investing in the right equipment early on helps you:
Complete jobs faster and more professionally
Avoid costly mistakes or delays
Meet safety and code compliance standards
Build trust with clients
Essential Equipment to Buy First for Electrical Contracting
Here’s a breakdown of the must-have tools and equipment to start your electrical contracting business:
1. Basic Hand Tools
These are the backbone of every electrician’s toolkit:
Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Pliers (needle-nose, lineman, and channel-lock)
Wire strippers and cutters
Tape measure
Utility knife
Hammer
2. Power Tools
Power tools save time and effort, especially on larger jobs:
Cordless drill and driver
Reciprocating saw
Rotary hammer
Impact driver
💡 Tip: Invest in a reliable battery platform to keep your tools compatible.
3. Electrical Testing Equipment
Testing tools are essential for safety and diagnostics:
Multimeter
Voltage tester
Circuit tracer
Clamp meter
Ground resistance tester
🔗 Read more: Electrical Testers for Contractors
4. Safety Gear
Electrical work is dangerous—protect yourself and your team:
Insulated gloves
Safety glasses
Hard hat
Flame-resistant clothing
Lockout/tagout kits
5. Ladders and Work Platforms
You’ll need access to ceilings, panels, and lighting fixtures:
Fiberglass ladders (non-conductive)
Adjustable work platforms
Scaffolding (for commercial or industrial jobs)
6. Conduit and Cable Tools
For running wiring and conduit:
Fish tape
Conduit benders
Cable pullers
Crimping tools
7. Jobsite Storage and Organization
Keep tools secure and organized:
Tool bags or boxes
Rolling tool carts
Van shelving systems
🔗 Read more: Electrician Van Setup guide
8. Business Essentials
Beyond tools, you’ll need:
Estimating software
Invoicing and accounting tools
Scheduling and dispatch software
Marketing materials (website, business cards, etc.)
🔗Read more: Best Electrical Contractor Software Tools
Don’t Forget Insurance for Your Equipment
Once you’ve invested in your tools and gear, it’s crucial to protect them. At Wexford Insurance, we help electrical contractors secure coverage for:
Final Thoughts
Starting an electrical contracting business requires smart investments in the right equipment. Focus on tools that help you work safely, efficiently, and professionally. As your business grows, you can expand your toolkit—but starting with the essentials sets you up for success.
If you're launching your electrical contracting business and need help protecting your investment, Wexford Insurance is here to guide you with specialized coverage designed for contractors like you.
