An electrical contractor in Houston 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. Both usually hold licenses and insurances to properly and safely operate a business, protecting the employees and home-owners/business owners from insurance liabilities. Electricians may work for an electrical contractor, or directly for individuals or companies in Houston. There are outside or line electrical contractors, inside contractors, and voice/data/video electrical contractors.