NC Electrical Contractor Board Defense Attorney
North Carolina Electrical Contractor License Defense
Receiving notice from the NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors that you’re under investigation can be stressful and disruptive—especially when you’re just trying to focus on your work. Complaints can come from clients, employers, or even other licensees, but you don’t have to handle them on your own. An experienced North Carolina electrical contractor defense attorney can help you navigate the Board’s investigation process, protect your license, and work toward the most favorable outcome possible.
Common Reasons for Board Complaints or Disciplinary Actions
Complaints to the NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors can come from clients, employers, local inspectors, or even other licensees. In many cases, these complaints involve allegations of unlicensed electrical work, code or safety violations, or failure to properly supervise employees or subcontractors. Other investigations may stem from issues like fraudulent bidding, misrepresentation on permit applications, or criminal convictions that raise questions about a licensee's character. Even a minor misunderstanding or paperwork error can trigger an investigation. Regardless of the source or substance of the complaint, it’s important to take it seriously—because any Board action can impact your reputation, your license, and your livelihood.
How an Attorney Can Help
Involving an attorney early in the process is often the best way to protect your license and livelihood when facing a complaint before the NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. Many electricians initially believe they can handle the matter on their own or that the Board will see the complaint as a simple misunderstanding. Unfortunately, that approach can sometimes lead to incomplete responses or missed opportunities to resolve the issue effectively.
An experienced North Carolina electrical contractor defense attorney can advocate for you from the very beginning—drafting a clear, professional, and persuasive written response to the Board. If discipline is being considered, your attorney can ensure that any action taken is fair and supported by the facts, helping you protect your reputation and keep your business operating. And if the matter proceeds to a formal hearing, your attorney can represent you before the Board—presenting evidence, examining witnesses, and making the case for your continued licensure. Engaging counsel early allows your attorney to fully understand your situation and develop the strongest defense strategy possible.
Understanding the Complaint and Investigation Process
When a complaint or charge is filed under G.S. 87-47(a4), the process is governed by 21 NCAC 18B .0902. Initially, the matter is handled by the Executive Director of the NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors, who may delegate certain responsibilities to other Board staff. The Executive Director reviews the charge and can recommend that it be dismissed if it appears unfounded or trivial. If not dismissed, the Executive Director may either issue a written notice of violation—which can include a reprimand or civil penalty—or send a written request for a response, allowing the licensee 20 days to reply.
After reviewing the response, the Executive Director may again recommend dismissal or forward the matter to the Disciplinary Review Committee. This Committee may review staff actions, hold a conference with the accused, and issue a Recommended Order to the Board. If no objection is filed within 20 days, that order may be adopted by the Board as its Final Order.
If the matter remains unresolved, the Board may schedule a formal administrative hearing, attempt a settlement meeting, or otherwise proceed as allowed under the law. Each notice of violation includes a statement of the licensee’s right to request a hearing under G.S. 87-47(a4).
Hearings and Potential Board Actions
If a licensee disagrees with a Board decision or notice of violation, they have the right to request a formal administrative hearing under G.S. 87-47(a4). Before the hearing, the Board may attempt a settlement conference with the licensee and the complainant. If no resolution is reached, the matter proceeds to a hearing where evidence is presented, and both parties can make arguments. Depending on the outcome, the Board may impose disciplinary actions, including issuing a reprimand, assessing a civil penalty, suspending or revoking the license, placing the licensee on probation, or requiring completion of continuing education. These actions are intended to ensure compliance with North Carolina electrical contracting laws while protecting public safety.
Appealing a Board Decision
If you disagree with the NC Electrical Board’s final decision, you have the right to appeal within 30 days to the Superior Court in your county or in Wake County (where the Board is located).
Our firm assists with:
Reviewing the administrative record for appealable issues
Drafting the written notice of appeal
Preparing court filings and arguments for review
Appeals are time-sensitive — missing the 30-day deadline can forfeit your right to challenge the Board’s decision.
Take the Next Step
Your license represents years of education, training, and experience. A single complaint or misunderstanding should not jeopardize your career.
If you are under investigation or received notification of a complaint, contact Brooks Peterson PLLC. We provide free and confidential consultations. Office number: 919-616-3317.