Electrical estimates fail when they're vague. Homeowners expect a circuit-by-circuit breakdown; inspectors expect permit compliance. Electrical estimate software gives you both — with itemized materials, labor hours, and a professional proposal that builds trust before you pull a single wire.
What electrical contractors need in estimating software
- Panel and service size — 100A, 200A, 400A calculations
- Circuit counts — general purpose, dedicated (HVAC, range, dryer, EV charger)
- Device scheduling — outlets, switches, dimmers, GFCI, AFCI quantities
- Conduit and wire runs — EMT, PVC, Romex with per-foot pricing
- Permit and inspection fees — typically $200–$800 for residential service upgrade
Electrical pricing quick reference (2026)
- Panel upgrade 100A → 200A — $1,800–$3,500 installed
- EV charger (Level 2, 50A circuit) — $500–$1,200 installed
- Whole-house rewire (1,500 sqft) — $8,000–$18,000
- Add circuit (new run to panel) — $300–$700 each
- Outlet/switch replacement — $80–$150 each
- GFCI outlet installed — $120–$200 each
- Recessed light installed (existing ceiling) — $150–$300 each
- Generator transfer switch — $500–$1,500
How to estimate electrical jobs step by step
- Count devices: outlets, switches, fixtures, dedicated circuits
- Measure wire runs — add 10–15% for bends and waste
- Identify access difficulty — open walls vs. finished, attic vs. crawlspace
- Add permit fee + inspector time (1–2 inspections typical)
- Apply labor rate × hours + materials × markup
Common electrical estimating mistakes
- Not budgeting for panel space — full panels require a sub-panel ($800–$2,000 extra)
- Forgetting the utility coordination fee for service upgrades
- Underestimating attic/crawlspace wire-fishing time by 2×
The ConstruMate electrical calculator handles circuit counts, panel sizing, and permit fees automatically. Send an itemized proposal your client can approve and e-sign from their phone.
Build your first estimate in 5 minutes
ConstruMate — AI estimates + bilingual proposals