Welcome to psychcentral JFB.

Yes, I agree with the fact that your T is hired by you as a consultant (though you do the work.)

But with a T there is a relationship built up. Yes, you might use the same electrician for 8 years and know them better than you know a T, but you might still miss the connection if they or you left, imo.

I, too, feel for those who are suffering through changing Ts. I expect to continue with mine for the rest of my, or his, life. Then I don't know what I'll do.

Again, welcome!