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How to quote an electrical job
To quote an electrical job, price it in five parts: (1) define the full scope, (2) cost the labour hours, (3) cost the materials with a markup, (4) add overheads and profit, and (5) present a clear written quote.
The steps
- Define the scope. Walk the job and list every task, fitting and circuit. Forgotten work — permits, making-good, extra cable runs — is the top cause of a blown quote.
- Cost the labour. Estimate hours honestly, multiply by your hourly rate, and add a call-out fee.
- Cost the materials. Add up parts at your buy price, then apply a 10–30% markup for pickup time and wastage.
- Add overheads and profit. Cover insurance, vehicle, tools and admin, then add a profit margin. Don't quote at break-even.
- Write the quote. Show call-out, labour, materials, tax and terms as separate lines with a total and an expiry date.
| Line | Amount |
|---|---|
| Call-out / first hour | $120 |
| Labour — 4 hrs @ $95 | $380 |
| Switchboard + RCDs (materials + markup) | $520 |
| 2 × double power points | $290 |
| Subtotal | $1,310 |
| Tax / GST (10%) | $131 |
| Total | $1,441 |
FAQs
How much should I mark up materials?
10–30% is common, to cover time spent sourcing, collecting and handling parts, plus wastage.
Should an electrical quote be fixed or hourly?
Fixed-price quotes win more work and look professional — but only quote fixed once you've scoped the job. Use hourly for open-ended fault-finding.