One of the most common questions we get at AK Electrical LLC is if we offer free electrical estimates. More than half of our customers ask this question on the first consultation. Undoubtedly, this is a question all electrical contractors get daily. Although it looks like a straightforward question, it is not that easy to answer. But the answer to this question varies from one electrical firm to another. In this present article, we answer, “Does every electrical contractor provide a free electrical estimate?"
What is the Cost of an Electrical Estimate?
Of course, trying to find out the prices of your potential electrical estimate is normal. Every customer desires to know the costs in advance so that they can plan their budget.
But the majority of electrical contractors prefer hearing the type of electrical work that needs to be performed before attempting to provide the customer with an electrical estimate. Often customers will ask for the potential costs & fees before giving us a complete picture of the kind of job it is. Nonetheless, a solid foundation is a requirement to determine the quote.
Average Cost of Hiring an Electrician
According to HomeGuide.com the average cost of hiring an Electrican this year ranges from $141 on the low-end to $419 on the high end. The average cost for hiring an Electrician is currently $280.
Getting an Estimate on Residential Electrical Services
AK Electrical offers two major types of services. They include troubleshooting (electrical repairs) and electrical installations.
Estimate for Electrical Installations
Electrical Installation entails putting in place several additions in your home. It could be as simple as putting in place a new lighting design feature. Fittings are not as complicated as troubleshooting jobs, and they involve a shorter completion time. So, determining installation quotes is simpler.
Estimate for Electrical Repairs & Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting, on the other hand, requires solving a puzzling problem. Usually, we have to figure out the source of the problem before we can begin fixing it.
For instance, if you experience an electrical shock from your house’s electrical gate, we need to pinpoint the source of the problem. Thus, it would be hard to come up with a quote during a phone call. At this point, we don’t know the exact cause of the electrical problem.
Occasionally, we ask you questions to try pointing out the problem. But the best way to maneuver through this issue is by being present on site. The source of the problem could be the primary power source or a loose electrical cable.
A Rough Electrical Estimate vs. the Actual Electrical Quote
Suppose you need electrical installation services, electrical contractors can offer a rough estimate of the prices. Nonetheless, most of them would always schedule an appointment to see the problem before printing out your invoice. Consequently, this will help them avoid overpricing and underpricing. So, most electricians will let you know that that rough estimate can vary. But troubleshooting is different.
Why Rough Electrical Estimates are seldom accurate...
It is so much harder to present a rough estimate to a client on call. The source of electrical problems could vary based on a wide range of factors. So, we usually advise that you book an appointment with us. Afterward, we can visit your home or property and investigate the type and source of the problem. This way, it would be easier for us to come up with a quote and print out an invoice for you.
Time and Materials for Electrical Work
Most electrical contractors dealing with troubleshooting electrical problems have a fixed rate. The charges often cater to the time used to identify the problem and electrical work. Typically, it is an hourly rate that may vary from $50 to $100 depending on the electrical contractor and type of work being performed.
The fee makes the electrical contractor avoid doing a lot of onsite work without pay. Remember, the time taken to fix the problem varies based on the electrician and the type of problem. But most electricians with extensive experience will give you a time and price estimate.
For smaller electrical remodeling jobs, electrical contractors will likely charge a lesser fee compared to bigger jobs. Above all, electricians charge the cost based on time. This technique of charging customers on an hourly rate is usually known as time and materials.
Trustworthy Electricians
It is daunting to employ electrical contractors you barely know. So, ensure you trust your electrician to take care of all your needs. Some of the tips you can use to tell whether you are dealing with a reliable electrical firm include:
Evaluate their customer service skills. Are they willing to help you? Do they relate to you professionally? Do they have problems with communication?
Evaluate whether their prices are genuine and reasonable.
Search for them on online review sites to gauge their dependability. You can use HomeAdvisor and check their customer feedback.
Ensure that your electrical contractor has a wide range of experience. You can ask them to present samples of their previous work.
Make sure the electrician has an insurance cover and a verified license. If not, consider hiring another electrical contractor.
The Bottom Line on Getting an Electrical Estimate
At the end of the day, most electrical companies will offer estimates at a small fee, especially on electrical installations. On the flip side, troubleshooting problems will need you to pay a specific hourly rate. We, AK Electricals LLC, have extensive experience in electrical work. If you are in Mesquite, Texas, we are just a phone call away.
Areas we provide Residential Electrician Services:
We provide Electrician service in: Sunnyvale, Mesquite, Garland, Forney, Heath, Rockwall, Farmers Branch, Addison, Balch Springs, Plano, Lake Highlands, Seagoville, Royce City, Fate, Rowlett.