Estimating guide · electrical
How to bid electrical jobs
Electrical estimating is a game of counts and lengths. Every device, fixture, and foot of conduit carries material and labor, and small misses multiply across a building. Here's a practical process for electrical contractors.
1. Read the drawings, schedules, and specs
Review the electrical plans, one-line diagram, panel schedules, lighting fixture schedule, and Division 26 specs. Note required wiring methods — EMT, MC cable, PVC underground — since they change both material and labor.
2. Count devices and fixtures
Count receptacles, switches, data outlets, occupancy sensors, and every fixture type from the lighting schedule. Track counts by floor or area so you can check them later and price phased work.
- Boxes, plaster rings, and cover plates for every device
- Fixture whips, supports, and emergency battery packs
- Lighting controls and low-voltage dimming
3. Measure branch circuits
Measure conduit or cable runs from devices back to the panel by circuit, then multiply wire by the number of conductors. Add a factor for vertical drops and routing around obstacles.
4. Take off feeders and distribution gear
From the one-line diagram, list service entrance equipment, switchboards, panelboards, transformers, disconnects, and feeders by size and length. Get gear quotes early — lead times on switchgear can be long.
5. Add equipment connections and special systems
Price connections to HVAC units, pumps, kitchen equipment, and owner-furnished items. Decide whether fire alarm, security, data, and AV are in your scope or subcontracted.
6. Apply labor units
Labor is usually the largest share of an electrical bid. Apply your labor units per device, per foot of conduit by size, per pull of wire, and per piece of gear, then adjust for height, access, and building conditions.
7. Include temporary power, permits, and markup
Add temporary power and lighting, permits and inspections, utility fees, lifts, supervision, and closeout. Then apply overhead and profit.
Frequently asked questions
How do electricians price jobs?
Most build the price from material plus labor hours using labor units, then add overhead and profit. Price per square foot is a check, not the estimate.
What is a labor unit?
The time it takes to install one unit of work — for example, hours per receptacle or per 100 feet of conduit — based on industry tables or your own history.
What do electrical estimators commonly miss?
Equipment connections, fire alarm scope, temporary power, and the wire count on multi-conductor circuits.
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