Electrician Pricing: What to Know Before Choosing the Cheapest Quote

 

 

Electrician Pricing: What to Know Before Choosing the Cheapest Quote

 

When hiring an electrician, you’ll first want to know how much it will cost.

 

Electrician pricing can differ, depending on the scope of the job, the electrician’s experience, and their licensing.

 

Low pricing is appealing, but it’s essential to understand what’s included in the pricing. Saving money is key, but picking the cheapest quote can end up costing you more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Red Flags of Suspiciously Low Phone Quotes

 

 

Base or Travel Charge

 

Phone quotes are quick and easy. But to get an accurate quote for most electrical jobs, you need an on-site estimate.

 

Many companies have a travel or base charge ranging from $29 to $89 on average. Licensed electricians usually don't provide services at these prices.

 

Instead, these prices cover the electrician’s visit to your home. They don’t include the costs of the electrical services.

 

 

 

Lowball Quotes Before Seeing the Job

 

Some companies may initially quote much lower prices. Such lowball quotes are common on many home service sites.

 

However, upon seeing the job, these prices often increase. At times, these prices increase after the work has begun.

 

Upcharges for “unforeseen issues” can occur even with the most skilled electrician. Still, most experienced electricians can avoid such issues.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why a Licensed Electrician is Crucial

 

Ensure you are hiring a licensed electrician. A handyman is not qualified for high-voltage electrical work. Hiring a handyman to save money on electrical services can cost you more.

 

Mistakes made by unlicensed pros doing high-voltage work can raise repair costs and cause home fires. And in many states, it’s illegal to provide electrical services without a license.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reading Reviews is Worthwhile

 

 

Not all electricians have the same skill level or work ethic. Check reviews, especially on Google, to see an electrician’s skills, work ethic, and how happy their customers are.

 

Don’t judge an electrical company only by the number of stars.

 

Look at customer complaints to determine if there is a consistent pattern. Also, read responses to see how the company addresses unsatisfied customers.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Permitting, Quality Work, and Integrity

 

Many jobs don’t need county permits. However, only a licensed electrician can get a permit when it’s needed. Expect to pay for permits when needed.

 

Licensed electricians are also more likely to provide quality work based on their expertise. You may have to pay more for quality workmanship, but it often means fewer repairs and fewer callbacks. It also means a reduced risk of home damage and fire hazards. On the other hand, poorly done electrical work can lead to costly damage and increase the risk of a fire in your home.

 

An electrician’s trustworthiness can have a major impact on the cost. You are not an electrician. So, you have to trust your electrician not to sell you services you don’t need.

 

No one wants to pay for a panel upgrade when they only need a breaker replaced. Reading reviews is a good way to determine a company’s record of integrity.

 

 

 

Electrician Pricing: What You're Paying For and What You're Not

 

High-voltage electrical work requires years of training. Most states’ licensing boards require annual continuing education, in addition to the initial electrical training.

 

Licensed electricians usually carry insurance and provide a warranty for their work. Part of their cost includes the peace of mind that comes with knowing the work will be done right.

 

What you are not paying for is your electrician’s time. You are paying for your electrician’s expertise. A quality electrician is an expert in his field. Such electricians have spent years honing their skills to properly assist their customers.

 

 

Is a Cheap Price Always a Warning Sign?

 

No, sometimes the cheapest electrician is your best choice. For example, smaller, non-corporate electrical companies often provide quality services at a much lower cost. You’re still paying for a licensed electrician. But with smaller companies, you aren’t also paying corporate officers' salaries.

 

If you choose a corporate-owned company, make sure to request a licensed electrician. Corporate-owned companies often send out unlicensed technicians. There is no shame in asking to see an electrical license.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What To Do Before Hiring an Electrician

 

• Ask if phone quotes cover the entire cost of the job.

 

• If a company charges for travel or estimates, ask if that fee is waived if you hire them for the job.

 

• Ask for upfront, flat-rate pricing.

 

• Ask if there will be any added fees once the work begins.

 

• Get your quote in writing.

 

• Ask whether they will send a licensed electrician to your home.

 

• Read Google reviews.

 

 

Before hiring, it’s also essential to understand what electrician pricing should cover.

 

 

 

Understanding Electrician Pricing: What’s Included in a Fair Quote

 

A quote for electrical work should cover:

 

• Labor costs
• Materials*
• Permits (if needed)
• Inspection costs (if needed)

 

*Your electrician should inform you about any materials you need to provide. This includes items like a ceiling fan or light fixture you want to select.

 

 

 

Key Points to Choosing an Electrician

 

Consider more than the price of the service. Check the electrician's experience, customer satisfaction, job timeline, and how easy they are to contact for questions or concerns.

 

Your best electrician might be the one with the least expensive quote. But if the quote seems too low, take the time to read reviews, confirm what the pricing includes, get your quote in writing, and ensure your electrician is licensed.

 

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