A safe and energy-efficient electrical system is foundational for most businesses. Brda Electric has the commercial expertise to modernize and maintain your workplace. Below are brief answers to the most common questions we field from business owners, developers and property managers. If you don’t see what you need, contact Brda for a consultation.
Company & Project Process Questions
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Brda Electric is fully licensed, insured, and safety trained across the regions we serve. Our team follows industry standards and local codes on every project.
Will you handle permitting for my project?
Yes. Brda manages the required permits and inspections with local authorities as needed. Our experience navigating these procedures keeps projects compliant and on time.
What safety measures do you take?
Safety is our top priority. We perform risk assessments, use protective gear, and follow strict safety procedures to protect people and property on every job.
How do you handle unexpected issues or changes during a project?
If something unexpected comes up during your project, we'll let you know right away. From the start, we plan for potential risks and build in contingencies to keep things moving smoothly. If an issue comes up, we'll walk you through the options and agree on the best solution together before moving forward.
What sets Brda Electric apart for commercial projects in St. Louis?
As a family-owned business with over 35 years serving the St. Louis area, Brda Electric brings a people-first philosophy and skilled craftsmen to every commercial project. We show up on time, work within budget, and minimize disruption to your operations so your business keeps running while we work. Learn about our team to see what that commitment looks like in practice.
How long does a typical commercial electrical project take from start to finish?
Timelines vary widely depending on scope. A service call can be handled the same day, a panel upgrade typically wraps in a day or two, and a new-construction electrical scope can span weeks or months depending on the build. Brda provides a project-specific timeline at the estimate so you know exactly what to plan for. Learn more about our commercial electrical services.
Services & Capabilities
What kinds of electrical services do you offer for businesses?
Brda provides electrical services for new construction, remodels, upgrades, and system installations. Our portfolio includes schools, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, faith centers, municipal projects, and more. You can find a full service list on our commercial specialty page. Common requests include LED lighting, data cabling, and service panel upgrades.
Do you handle large, complex projects?
Yes. Our portfolio includes large-scale projects and multi-site builds, delivered on time and within budget. Brda electricians can accommodate special requirements to minimize your business disruption, typically staggering active work areas to eliminate downtime.
Can you bring my property up to code and help pass inspection?
Yes. We're well-versed in local codes, permitting, and utility requirements. We can evaluate your electrical system, implement any necessary corrections to meet code (with your permission), and coordinate the final inspection.
Do you offer ongoing maintenance and repairs?
Yes. We provide preventive maintenance and as-needed service to keep your systems reliable and safe. For ongoing coverage, ask about our commercial maintenance membership.
What types of properties do you work on?
We support a wide range of facilities, including offices, warehouses, restaurants, schools, faith centers, historic buildings, and multi-residential properties.
Can you work in historic buildings?
Yes. We respect the building's original character while upgrading its fixtures to meet modern safety and performance standards.
Do you install commercial solar systems?
Yes. Brda designs and installs commercial solar installation systems sized to match your building's energy demand, using monocrystalline panels and (optionally) lithium-ion battery storage for added backup. Commercial solar can stack with state and local incentive programs where available, and our team can help identify which programs may apply to your project. Contact us for a fast estimate.
Do you offer a commercial maintenance membership?
Yes. Brda's commercial maintenance plans include priority service, scheduled inspections, preventive maintenance, and member discounts. Coverage can be tailored to your facility's size and operational needs. Contact us or request a fast estimate to build the right plan.
Are you certified for the Ameren energy efficiency program?
Yes. Brda participates in the Ameren energy efficiency program for Missouri and helps business customers in Ameren territory access utility rebates for qualifying lighting, HVAC controls, and other efficiency upgrades. Program details and rebate amounts vary by project type and current program guidelines. Our team walks through what applies before the project starts, so there are no surprises.
Do you handle design-build projects for new commercial construction?
Yes. With design-build electrical services, Brda's electricians work with the project team from initial planning through final installation, keeping electrical decisions aligned with the rest of the build and reducing change-order risk. It's a strong fit for new commercial construction and major renovations.
Energy, Sustainability & Power Resilience
Can you install EV charging?
Yes. We design and install Level 2 and Level 3 EV charging infrastructure for businesses, whether you need a few stations for staff or enough to power your fleet.
What's the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 commercial EV charging?
Level 2 is the standard for workplaces and multi-family properties. Operating at 240V, Level 2 takes several hours to charge a vehicle, is more affordable to install, and places a lower demand on your building's electrical system. Level 3 (DC fast charging) delivers a significantly higher power output, charging vehicles in 20 to 60 minutes, but requires considerably more electrical infrastructure and is best suited for highway corridors, fleets, and high-traffic retail destinations. Brda evaluates your use case and existing electrical capacity to recommend the right mix. Learn more about commercial EV charger installation.
What energy-efficiency incentives are available to businesses?
Brda helps businesses navigate utility, state, and local energy-efficiency programs, which vary by location and program eligibility. For businesses in Ameren territory, including Missouri and Southern Illinois, Brda participates in the Ameren energy efficiency program for businesses, which provides utility rebates for qualifying upgrades. Brda provides the project documentation needed to support program applications and coordinates any required inspections, so you get credit for the work you're already doing.
Do you provide backup power solutions?
Yes. We can design and install a standby generator system built for your facility's needs. Your technician can help evaluate your power load and identify circuits that need to stay on during outages.
Do we need a panel upgrade before adding EV chargers or new equipment?
It depends on your existing load and capacity. We advise starting with a load evaluation and panel upgrade assessment to gauge your current usage. Your electrician can then offer consultation on how much power you'll need and whether upgrades are needed.
Connectivity, Security & Specialty Systems
How disruptive is an office or warehouse lighting retrofit?
We phase work by area and schedule it during lower-volume hours to minimize disruption to your operations during an LED lighting upgrade. Our dust control and daily cleanup measures keep your workspace tidy during the project. Most projects are completed with little to no interruption to operations.
What's the benefit of hardwired voice, data, or fiber vs. Wi-Fi alone?
Hardwired lines deliver higher throughput and reliability. Designated voice, data, or fiber wiring helps isolate key systems from congestion and maintain a stable service connection.
Will adding security cameras overload our network?
It can, especially if the cameras and video storage are all wireless. Upgrading your network service or opting for a hard-wired IP security camera installation can mitigate this risk.
What's involved in trenching, boring, or running underground electrical?
Underground electrical and conduit installation involves planning the route, securing utility locates for existing lines, and choosing the right method based on site conditions and surface disruption tolerance. Brda handles both open trenching and directional boring for commercial sites. Learn more about our trenching, directional boring, and conduit services.
Maintenance, Emergencies & Planning
What do your emergency services cover?
Power loss, safety concerns, and other urgent hazards. We prioritize safety, stabilize the issue, and restore service quickly. Contact us anytime for 24/7 emergency support.
How often should a facility schedule an electrical checkup?
In short, it depends largely on the nature of your business and any special risk factors. For example, a manufacturing facility needs more frequent checks than a standard office building. We'll help you establish a maintenance schedule based on your equipment, usage, and risk profile.
How can we prepare our building for severe weather?
Surge protection, standby power, battery backup, and routine maintenance reduce downtime and protect your equipment. We can assess your site and outline practical safeguards.
Scheduling, Hours & Service Areas
What are Brda's business hours?
Our office hours are divided by service region:
Missouri and Southern Illinois (commercial and residential):
Mon–Fri 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., with 24/7 emergency support.
Contact us to schedule work outside standard hours when operations require it.
Where does Brda work?
We serve Greater St. Louis and Southern Illinois out of our Fenton, MO location. In Missouri, that includes St. Louis, St. Charles, Chesterfield, Ballwin, Kirkwood, Oakville, Webster Groves, and surrounding communities. In Southern Illinois, we regularly work in Belleville, O'Fallon, IL, Fairview Heights, Edwardsville, and the broader Metro East.
Need help now?
Businesses have trusted Brda Electric for over 35 years! Tell us about your project and get a fast estimate. We'll make sure your systems are safe, efficient, and ready for business.
