Do I need an Estimate, or a Service Call?

 

To assist you in deciding if you need an estimate or a service call, here is how we define each one:

 

Service Call: (Open Ended)

Examples:

1. My light, outlet or switch is not working any longer.
2. My lights are flickering or dimming dramatically.
3. The power is out to several items in my home (a room or two).
4. My circuit breaker or fuse seems very hot to the touch.

These are situations where it is not possible to determine what the extent of the problem is without performing diagnostic electrical work. When things are malfunctioning or no longer working there can be several causes from a tripped circuit breaker or GFCI device to a connection that has failed when made illegally inside a wall. Therefore determining an exact cost is impossible, unless someone guesses excessively high and covers every possibility. Many service companies will charge a flat fee (like $39.99) to come out and then quote you an amount after looking at the situation.

Our philosophy is that the best value for the customer is to charge a fee that covers our costs to drive to your location and incorporates the first hour of service. Therefore, when we show up we charge $125.00 for a service call, which includes the first hour. Each hour thereafter is billed in ½ hr. increments at $100.00 per hr. In 90% of cases we can diagnose and fix the problem within the first hour to hour and a half. The only additional fees would be for material consumed and permit fees as necessary. By disclosing our costs in this way, you are protected from hidden fees, etc. If at any time in the process you want us to stop, we can do that and just settle up for the time and material used (after we make things safe). Also, if we determine that the problem is, for example, in your electrical panel. We will give you a written estimate for the work. We will usually credit you back the cost of the service call if you do the larger repair.

Estimate: (Close Ended)

Examples:

1. I want to add or replace an outlet, switch, GFCI device, or light fixture.
2. I want to finish off my basement or am adding onto my house.
3. I want to build a new home
4. I want to have my electrical service upgraded or replaced.

These are situations that can easily be quantified into a time to install and how much material will be necessary to accomplish that task. We offer free no obligation estimates on these types of projects.

Once we have looked over your project and had a meeting with all parties involved, we will produce a legally binding proposal for your work. Our proposals are all inclusive (including any meetings or design time). Proposals are valid for 90 days and include our Additional Terms and Conditions.

Rate Us