When an office is built or renovated, two trades run wire through the walls: the electrician and the low voltage contractor. People often search for a “low voltage electrician” and expect one company to do both. Sometimes that works, but the two trades specialize in different systems, and knowing the difference helps you hire the right team.
What an electrician installs
Electricians install and maintain line-voltage power: service panels, circuits, outlets, lighting, motors and dedicated power for equipment. Their work is governed by electrical codes and inspections focused on safety at 120 volts and above.
What a low voltage contractor installs
A low voltage contractor installs data and signal systems that run at much lower voltages:
- Network and data cabling (Cat6, Cat6A) and fiber
- Wireless access point drops and PoE devices
- Security cameras and recording systems
- Door access control, readers and controllers
- Intercoms, paging and similar building systems
- Racks, patch panels and telecom room build-outs
Why specialization matters
Network cabling is judged by performance as well as safety. Each link must meet its category rating, which takes the right pulling technique, bend radius, termination practice and a certification tester to prove it. Low voltage contractors also configure the systems on the cable, such as cameras and access control, and integrate them with the network. Most electricians do not carry certification testers or configure network devices, and most low voltage contractors do not run power circuits.
How the two trades work together
Most projects need both. The electrician provides power for racks, UPS units, cameras that are not PoE and electrified door hardware. The low voltage contractor plans pathways, pulls and certifies cable, installs devices and documents the system. Coordinating early on backboxes, conduit, sleeves and rack power avoids cutting walls later.
Choosing a low voltage contractor
- Ask for certification reports and as-built drawings at closeout.
- Confirm they can install and configure cameras and access control, not just pull cable.
- Check that they coordinate with your general contractor and electrician.
- Look for a team that can support the network after installation.
Benex is a commercial low voltage contractor for structured cabling, security cameras and access control, and we coordinate closely with your electrician on every project. Request a free quote and a specialist will respond within one business day.