FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does a licensed electrical contractor do?

What does it mean to be “accredited”?

Accreditation through InstallQ or a similar organization demonstrates that we possess proven professional competence, undergo regular inspections, and operate in accordance with national safety standards. This gives you confidence in our quality and safety.

Does my electrical system need to be inspected periodically?

Regular inspections are recommended and are required by the Working Conditions Act for businesses and homeowners’ associations. A NEN 3140 inspection helps prevent the risk of fire or injury and certifies that your system is safe to use.

When does my circuit breaker panel need to be replaced?

The expected lifespan of a distribution panel depends heavily on the type of components, the load, and maintenance. Warning signs include blown fuses, missing ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), insufficient circuits for modern appliances (induction cooktops, heat pumps, charging stations), and outdated or unclear wiring. We would be happy to assess this on-site.

Can I expand a circuit or add an outlet myself?

You can sometimes handle minor tasks yourself, but any modifications to the main electrical panel, new wiring, or additional circuit breakers must be performed by a licensed electrician. This ensures that your electrical system remains safe and covered by insurance.

I want to upgrade my electrical panel. How does that work?

If you wish to increase your circuit capacity, we will first assess your current installation. This is done through an on-site inspection or, if possible, based on clear photos of the circuit breaker panel and main connection.

If increasing the circuit capacity is technically feasible, we will carry out the necessary work, such as installing a 4-pole main circuit breaker and modifying the internal wiring. You must then submit the official application for an increased grid connection capacity to your grid operator yourself via mijnaansluiting.nl

We can, of course, assist you with this application and indicate which specifications are required.

I want to switch from single-phase to three-phase power. What changes will this cause in my electrical panel?

When switching from single-phase to three-phase (400 V), we first assess whether your distribution panel and wiring are suitable for this. Often, an on-site inspection or an assessment based on clear photos is sufficient to determine this.

During the conversion, we install a 4-pole main switch with a temporary loop and adjust the internal distribution so that the load is evenly distributed across the three phases. If necessary, we replace the distribution panel, fuse holders, or add components such as a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or circuit breakers.

You will then need to request the actual upgrade of the grid connection yourself from your grid operator via mijnaansluiting.nl
During the grid operator’s visit, the single-phase smart meter will be replaced with a three-phase version and connected to the 4-pole main switch. The temporary jumper will be removed at this time.

Do you conduct inspections in accordance with NEN 3140 or NEN 1010?

Yes. We conduct final inspections (NEN 1010) and periodic inspections (NEN 3140), including a measurement report and, if desired, a certificate of conformity.

Do you offer on-call or emergency service?

Yes, within our region, we resolve urgent issues as quickly as possible. Homeowners’ associations and customers with maintenance contracts are given priority. Outside of business hours, service is provided by appointment.

What are the benefits of LED lighting?

LEDs use up to 80% less energy, last longer, and require little maintenance. They work well with motion sensors and smart lighting systems to deliver additional savings. In addition, incandescent bulbs, halogen bulbs, energy-saving bulbs, and fluorescent tubes have been phased out gradually since 2012.

Can my system be upgraded to accommodate solar panels or a charging station?

Usually, yes. We first assess the capacity of your system. Sometimes, upgrading the main service connection or modifying the circuit breaker panel is necessary to ensure a safe expansion.

What does phase distribution or load per phase mean?

With a 3-phase connection (400 V), the power is distributed across three phases. Proper distribution prevents overloading and outages. We check this when installing solar panels, heat pumps, and charging stations.

Do you also install charging stations for homes or homeowners' associations?

Yes. We supply and install charging stations for residential and commercial customers, including load balancing, meter panel modifications, and inspections. For homeowners’ associations, we also handle the technical preparations and management agreements. You can find more information on our services page about “electric charging”

Do you also work with homeowners' associations, businesses, and property managers?

Yes. We offer scheduled maintenance, NEN inspections, emergency lighting, and priority response to malfunctions. See also our“Homeowners’ Association & PropertyManagement” page.

What warranty do you offer on your work?

Far, far away, beyond the mountains of words, far from the lands of Vokalia and Consonantia, live the blind texts. They live apart in Bookmarksgrove, right on the shore of Semantics, a vast ocean of language.

Do you also do small jobs (installing a light fixture, adding an outlet)?

Yes, you can also count on us for small jobs. That way, you can be sure that everything is connected safely and correctly.

Do you work with smart systems or home automation?

Yes. We install products such as Jung Home, KNX components, smart thermostats, Home Assistant integrations, and energy management systems. This allows us to integrate lighting, heating, solar panels, and charging stations.

What is your area of expertise and region?

We primarily serve Zuidplas and the surrounding area: Zevenhuizen, Waddinxveen, Moerkapelle, Moordrecht, Nieuwerkerk a/d IJssel, Capelle a/d IJssel, Rotterdam, and Gouda. We also serve areas outside the region upon request.

How much does a plumber charge per hour?

Our current hourly rate is €75.95 excluding VAT (€91.90 including VAT). We bill in ten-minute increments and clearly communicate any material costs. See also our page on our rates.

Do you charge a service call fee?

Yes, our call-out fee within our primary service area—also known as the base rate—is €39.00 excluding VAT (€47.19 including VAT) per visit. This rate will remain in effect in 2026 as well. Outside this area, travel expenses will be calculated based on a mileage allowance and travel time. See also our page on our rates.

How do I request a quote?

Via the contact form, by email, or by phone. We’ll start by discussing your needs; for larger projects, we’ll schedule an on-site visit and provide you with a detailed quote.

Will I receive a certificate of compliance after completion?

Yes, upon request, we can provide a certificate of conformity in accordance with NEN 1010/NEN 3140. This certifies that the work was performed by a certified installer.

Can you help with emergency lighting and annual inspections?

Yes. We test, maintain, and replace emergency lighting and document the results for your records and any audits.

Is my electrical system compatible with a heat pump, solar panels, and a charging station?

Many homes and commercial buildings have electrical systems that were originally designed for lower power ratings. Modern applications such as heat pumps, solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, and home batteries require sufficient capacity, proper phase distribution, and a safe, code-compliant electrical panel.

During an inspection, we assess the following, among other things:

  • whether your connection is single-phase or three-phase,
  • the load per phase,
  • the technical condition and expandability of the distribution panel,
  • the presence and proper functioning of ground-fault circuit interrupters,
  • whether the installation complies with NEN 1010 and NEN 3140.

Based on this, you will receive clear advice on whether your electrical system is suitable and future-proof, or whether modifications such as replacing the circuit breaker panel, redistributing phases, or upgrading the utility connection are necessary.

In case of a malfunction or for a no-obligation consultation.

Markus Techniek specializes in electrical installations, renewable energy technology, charging stations, home batteries, lighting, ventilation, network cabling, and complex fault diagnosis. We also handle the expansion, modification, and replacement of circuit breaker panels and distribution boards for residential and commercial customers. We can schedule many jobs on short notice. Feel free to contact us for advice or a quote.