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What to look for on an electrical quote
Electrical work is heavily code-regulated and dangerous if done wrong. A quality quote specifies wire gauge, breaker amperage, circuit count, box counts, grounding method, and permit — not just a lump sum. Unpermitted electrical work can void your insurance.
Specific count of receptacles, switches, fixtures, and dedicated circuits added or modified.
12 AWG for 20-amp circuits, 14 AWG for 15-amp. Aluminum vs copper matters for code compliance on older homes.
Standard, AFCI (arc fault), GFCI (ground fault), or dual-function (code requires these in bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms).
Amp rating (100, 200, 400 amp), brand (Square D, Eaton, Siemens), and slot count.
Meter socket, service drop, grounding rods, ground wire to water pipe and rebar (UFER ground).
Required for: panel upgrades, service changes, new circuits, major additions. $100–$500 typical, sometimes higher.
Labor (typically 1–2 years) + parts (manufacturer warranty, often 10+ years on breakers).
New circuit runs require drywall cuts. Should specify repair scope (patch + paint or just patch).
Work should be performed by or under supervision of licensed journeyman or master. License number should appear on quote.
Red flags in an electrical quote
Panel swaps and service upgrades always require permit + inspection. Unpermitted work voids homeowner's insurance and fails home inspections at resale.
If your existing panel is Federal Pacific, Zinsco, or Challenger, a conscientious electrician will flag it — these are fire hazards and are often refused by insurance companies. A quote that ignores this is cutting corners.
Homes with 1960s–1970s aluminum branch circuits need special connectors (AlumiConn or COPALUM) or complete re-wire. Just using copper pigtails is not code-compliant.
Code requires AFCI in most living areas and GFCI in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, exteriors, basements. Quote should specify which circuits get which protection.
Re-using wire of unknown age/condition on a new panel is a fire risk. Quote should specify new wire for new runs and inspection of existing circuits.
Pre-1960s homes often have 2-prong outlets with no ground. A panel upgrade quote should include bringing grounding up to code (rods + water pipe + rebar).
Electrical work performed without a license is illegal in most jurisdictions and voids insurance. Check state license lookup before hiring.
Common hidden costs and change orders
These items are often missing from the initial electrical quote and show up later as change orders or surprise fees. Ask about each before signing.
- Drywall and paint repair after access ($200–$1,500)
- Code-required AFCI/GFCI breakers on upgrade ($30–$75 each)
- Service upgrade from utility (meter + drop)
- Grounding electrode system upgrade ($200–$600)
- Smoke/CO detector upgrades if wired system is opened
- Permit + inspection fees beyond quote estimate
- Replacing ungrounded outlets flagged during work