New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Elec - Electricians' Board
Background (brief)
The Elec rules govern:
Licensing of electricians and apprentices
Examination requirements
Scope of work
Supervision rules
Discipline and enforcement
The Board’s authority comes from RSA 319-C, and Elec rules explain how that authority is exercised.
Case 1: Unlicensed Electrical Work on Residential Property
Issue
A homeowner complained that an individual performed electrical work without holding a New Hampshire electrician license.
Facts
The individual installed a new service panel and several branch circuits.
He advertised himself as an “electrical contractor.”
He was not licensed under Elec 300.
Rules Applied
Elec 301 – License required to perform electrical work
Elec 304 – Prohibited acts
Board’s Analysis
Any person performing electrical work for compensation must hold a valid NH license.
Advertising or holding oneself out as an electrician without a license is a violation—even if the work is done competently.
Homeowner permission does not override licensing requirements.
Outcome
Cease-and-desist order issued
Administrative fine imposed
Individual barred from applying for licensure for a defined period
Key Lesson
Competence does not replace licensure. The Elec rules focus on public safety, not just workmanship.
Case 2: Master Electrician Failed to Properly Supervise Apprentice
Issue
An apprentice performed work without required supervision.
Facts
Apprentice installed wiring in a commercial building.
Master electrician was listed as supervisor but was not present and did not inspect work.
Work failed inspection by local authority.
Rules Applied
Elec 502 – Supervision requirements
Elec 507 – Responsibilities of license holders
Board’s Analysis
Supervision means actual oversight, not merely being available by phone.
The licensed electrician is responsible for all work performed under their license.
Failure to supervise is considered professional misconduct.
Outcome
Formal reprimand
Continuing education requirement
Probationary period placed on license
Key Lesson
A license holder cannot delegate responsibility for electrical safety.
Case 3: Electrical Work Outside the Scope of License
Issue
A journeyman electrician acted beyond the authority of their license.
Facts
Journeyman contracted directly with customers.
Pulled permits and billed clients independently.
No master electrician was involved.
Rules Applied
Elec 401 – Scope of journeyman license
Elec 304.03 – Misrepresentation of license authority
Board’s Analysis
Journeymen may perform work only under a master electrician.
Contracting, permitting, and business control require a master license.
The public relies on license titles to understand responsibility.
Outcome
Fine imposed
Required to cease independent contracting
Warning that future violations could result in suspension
Key Lesson
License level defines authority, not experience or years in the trade.
Case 4: False Statements on License Renewal Application
Issue
An electrician submitted inaccurate information during license renewal.
Facts
Claimed completion of required continuing education.
Audit revealed courses were not taken.
Electrician argued it was an “administrative error.”
Rules Applied
Elec 203 – License renewal requirements
Elec 304.05 – Fraud or misrepresentation
Board’s Analysis
Licensees are responsible for the accuracy of submissions.
False statements undermine regulatory integrity.
Intent is less important than the act of misrepresentation.
Outcome
License suspension until requirements were met
Additional fine
Mandatory ethics training
Key Lesson
Honesty in licensing documents is mandatory, not optional.
Case 5: Unsafe Electrical Installation Endangering the Public
Issue
Work performed created a significant safety hazard.
Facts
Improper grounding and overloaded circuits.
Installation violated National Electrical Code standards.
Fire marshal referred case to the Board.
Rules Applied
Elec 305 – Professional conduct
Elec 701 – Grounds for discipline
Board’s Analysis
The Elec rules incorporate safety standards as a baseline.
Even licensed electricians can be disciplined for unsafe practices.
Risk to life and property is a primary concern.
Outcome
License suspension
Required remedial education
Proof of correction of all defective work
Key Lesson
Licensure is a continuing obligation to protect public safety.
Case 6: Failure to Cooperate with Board Investigation
Issue
Electrician ignored Board inquiries and requests for records.
Facts
Multiple notices sent by the Board.
Electrician failed to respond.
Claimed later that notices were overlooked.
Rules Applied
Elec 105 – Authority of the Board
Elec 304.07 – Failure to cooperate
Board’s Analysis
Licensees must cooperate with investigations.
Non-response itself is a disciplinary violation.
Regulatory oversight depends on compliance.
Outcome
Additional penalties beyond original complaint
Temporary suspension until cooperation occurred
Key Lesson
Ignoring the Board makes a case worse, not better.
Overall Themes from Elec Cases
Licenses define authority, responsibility, and accountability
Supervision is a real, active duty
Public safety overrides convenience or business pressure
Administrative honesty is treated as seriously as technical skill
RELATED Blog
comments