Any electrician can power up a building with enough time and equipment. They say that until you give them the blueprints for a multi-story mall or office building. 

Residential and commercial electrical contractors work on complex and essential jobs, and there’s a lot of overlap between the two. While commercial electrical contractor often deals with larger-scale projects, they must have a thorough understanding of residential needs because commercial electricians also take on residential projects. 

Residential Electricians vs. Commercial Electricians 

Technical Skills 

Residential and commercial electrical technicians begin their education and training in the exact location. They may have started their careers in an apprenticeship program, in trade schools, or with undergraduate degrees, but the fundamental foundation of all electricians is the same. 

Because of the complexity, safety, and dependability factors, commercial electrical contractors require more experience. More than 4,000 hours o on-the-job experience and in-depth knowledge of phase and voltage balancing, phase diagrams, and control systems are required. 

Services 

At the surface level, electricians do the same job no matter the scale of a project, but it is a lot more detailed than that. Residential electrical contractors, or domestic electricians, are responsible for the safety, compliance, and finishing of residential electrical installation. 

Their job includes interpreting technical blueprints, electrical appliances, and fixture maintenance and services. Domestic electricians also diagnose electrical repair faults and residential electrical systems inspection and rewiring. 

A commercial electrical contractor performs similar tasks on a larger, more complex scale, including installing wiring systems, machines, and control panels following the official blueprints. You will likely find them in commercial buildings, business locations, public buildings, and factory 

complexes, among other places. Typically, they’ll handle electrical permitting, which is often required in major cities. 

Project Size 

Similar to the difference in service, commercial electrical projects are more prominent than residential projects. These projects take a lot of labor time, and skill to complete. Projects can range from office buildings to malls and various complexes. 

However, commercial contractors don’t need to stick with large commercial properties. Many make exceptions for large residential projects, such as large homes, estates, or apartment buildings. 

Larger residential projects can have systems as complicated as commercial projects. 

A commercial electrical contractor can typically take on any project that a residential contractor can, but the opposite isn’t necessarily true. 

Standards & Regulations 

Electrical work for residential, commercial, and industrial electricians typically works through the national electrical code. 

Electrical compliance requirements for contractors are stringent. Residential electrical compliance standards govern everything from the type  electrician to the cables, insulation, and fittings used. 

Commercial contractors must adhere to even higher standards and regulations. These include electrical equipment safety standards, personal safety standards they follow, and the insurance level for potential electrical fault disasters. 

Electrical contractors are typically licensed at the state or municipal level, and certifications vary greatly. However, almost all states only issue Electrical Contractor licenses to Master Electricians or businesses that employ a Master Electrician. 

Contact Our Professionals Today! 

It is highly recommended that professionals handle the job for any electrical work. Watt Electric is a full-service electrical contractor that provides services for residential and commercial property owners throughout New Mexico. 



Our goal is to provide lasting service and be the most reliable local electricians. We work to fulfill our commitment to your safety. 

Contact us today for more information about the most qualified electricians near you!