Set Price or Hourly Range

The difference between a set price estimate or a time ranged estimate.

I personally like to provide an itemized breakdown of all anticipated parts to be used then I provide a range of labor ( example ) anywhere from 2-4 hours for smaller jobs or maybe 20- 30 hrs for more involved projects, some ask why such a difference in labor, can you just give me a set estimate.

The answer to this question is yes, I can provide a set estimate for materials and labor but realistically knowing the exact time frame can be fairly difficult to pinpoint, there are several scenarios that may or could occur, involving a different solution or approach to any given installation, could be the need of running a new circuit or wiring entirely, could be the lack of access across an attic or crawl space, could be the involvement of preparing for the installation whether it be protecting furniture or other liability concerns, truth is the electrician has a very good idea of the cost but sometimes a half day estimate could turn into a full day or maybe a 3 week project takes 4.

When an electrician provides a set estimate, I can guarantee it is the highest estimate they can determine while possibly padding even more for any additional complications that could occur, so if they estimate a job at 4 hours and it actually takes them 2 hrs, they will charge the 4.

I personally don't care much for that method and simply wish to be paid for the actual time it took to complete the project, which is why I provide an estimated range which is based on an educated Lo | High labor range cost as mentioned above.