Getting the Most from Your Free Electrical Estimate
A free estimate is your opportunity to understand your project, evaluate contractors, and make an informed decision. Here's how to prepare and what to expect from the process.
What "Free Estimate" Really Means
A legitimate free estimate includes:
- On-site visit: The electrician comes to your home to assess the work
- Written proposal: Detailed breakdown of work, materials, and costs
- No obligation: You're not committed to hiring them
- No hidden fees: The estimate visit itself is truly free
Watch for: Companies that charge "diagnostic fees" for estimates or apply high-pressure tactics.
Before the Estimate: Prepare Your Space
Clear access to: - Your electrical panel (remove any items blocking it) - Areas where work will be done - Attic or crawlspace if relevant
Have available: - Description of the problem or project - List of questions you want answered - Any relevant documents (home inspection reports, previous estimates)
Before the Estimate: Know What You Want
Be ready to discuss:
- The immediate need: What problem are you trying to solve?
- Your goals: What outcome do you want?
- Timeline: Is this urgent or can it wait?
- Budget: What range are you expecting? (You don't have to share exact numbers)
- Future plans: Anything coming that might affect the work?
What Happens During an Estimate Visit
A thorough estimate typically takes 30-60 minutes:
- Conversation: Understanding your needs and concerns
- Inspection: Examining your panel, wiring, and work areas
- Discussion: Explaining what needs to be done and options available
- Documentation: Taking notes and measurements
- Proposal: Providing a written estimate (sometimes same day, sometimes within 48 hours)
What a Good Estimate Should Include
A complete written estimate contains:
- Company name, license number, and contact information
- Your name and property address
- Detailed scope of work (what exactly will be done)
- Materials list with specifications
- Labor breakdown
- Permit fees (if applicable)
- Total cost
- Payment terms
- Timeline estimate
- Warranty information
- Signature lines
Red flags: Vague descriptions like "electrical work as discussed" or verbal-only quotes.
Questions to Ask During the Estimate
About the work: - What exactly will be done? - What materials will be used? - Will permits be required? - What's not included in this estimate? - What could cause the price to change?
About the company: - Who will do the actual work? - Are you licensed and insured? - How long have you been in business? - Can I see references?
About logistics: - When can you start? - How long will it take? - Will my power be off? For how long? - What do I need to do to prepare?
Comparing Multiple Estimates
We recommend getting 2-3 estimates for any significant project. When comparing:
Don't just compare price. Look at:
| Factor | What to Compare |
|---|---|
| Scope | Is the same work included? |
| Materials | Same quality and specifications? |
| Permits | Are they included? |
| Warranty | What's covered and for how long? |
| Timeline | Can they complete when you need? |
| Communication | How responsive and clear are they? |
The lowest bid isn't always the best value. Understand why one estimate is higher or lower before deciding.
Red Flags in the Estimate Process
Be cautious if:
- They won't provide a written estimate
- They pressure you to decide immediately
- The price seems significantly lower than others (corners may be cut)
- They discourage you from getting other estimates
- They want large deposits upfront
- They suggest skipping permits to save money
- They're vague about who will do the work
After You Receive Estimates
Take your time to:
- Read each estimate carefully
- Ask clarifying questions
- Verify licenses and insurance
- Check reviews and references
- Compare apples to apples
Don't feel rushed. Any contractor who pressures you to decide immediately isn't worth hiring.
Making Your Decision
Consider the complete picture:
- Quality: Do they understand your needs and explain things clearly?
- Trust: Do you feel comfortable with them in your home?
- Value: Is the price fair for what's included?
- Fit: Can they meet your timeline and communication preferences?
Our Estimate Process
When you request an estimate from us:
- Quick response: We return calls within one business day
- Flexible scheduling: We work around your availability
- Thorough assessment: We take time to understand your needs
- Clear explanation: We explain options and recommendations
- Written proposal: Detailed estimate usually same day
- No pressure: Take your time to decide
Schedule your free estimate and experience the difference.