An electrical contractor is a business person or firm that performs specialized construction work related to the design, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems.An electrical contractor is different from an electrician, an electrician is an individual tradesman and an electrical contractor is a business person or company that employs electricians. These requirements vary from state to state. Electricians may work for an electrical contractor, or directly for individuals or companies.

"Inside" electrical contractors provide electricity to any structure within a property’s boundary lines, including outdoor lighting or substations. Under current construction specification guidelines, "inside" electrical contractors can serve as prime contractors for all electrical and cabling design, installation, and maintenance for commercial, institutional, and residential buildings. Projects also include Database Centers/Infrastructure and Pharmaceutical Work.
"Integrated building systems" or "Voice/Data/Video" electrical contractors work primarily with low-voltage installations such as back-up power, climate controls, wireless networks, energy-efficient lighting, telecommunications, fiber optics, and security systems. IBS contractors are particularly skilled at integrating these system controls to work together for maximum energy efficiency and building performance.