I recently received an invoice for some electrical work on my home, and I'm trying to understand if the costs are reasonable. Here's a breakdown of the services:
1. **Complete Device Change-Out**: All electrical devices in the house were replaced to be compatible with aluminum wiring and to fix grounding issues - $3,600.
2. **Service Upgrade Installation**: Upgraded to a 200-amp panel, including a new grounding system and additional equipment - $5,500 (may incur extra for drywall repairs).
3. **HVAC and Porch Circuit Rework**: Rewiring circuits for the HVAC and porch to comply with code - $1,200.
The total comes to $10,300. Is this typical for the area?
3 Answers
For the device change-out, $3,600 sounds fair unless the scope was very limited. I’m needing some outlets installed, too, but I've been holding off for now. For the service upgrade, you might be able to find something between $2,500 to $4,000 based on what I've read. It could be worth having a city inspection for safety and to avoid unexpected costs down the line.
Understanding the rates charged by licensed electricians is essential. Labor costs can vary widely, so don't hesitate to seek more bids. This way, you'll have a better grasp of the going rates for your area.
Your total seems a bit high, but it depends on your location and the complexity of the work. I'd definitely recommend getting a few quotes to compare prices—especially for such a significant job. I recall getting quotes for a roof that varied greatly. Also, consider checking the aluminum wiring; it might be worth it to replace it to avoid future issues. Just my two cents!
I think you’re right about getting multiple quotes! Just as a side note, I had a similar experience where one estimate was significantly lower, but I never heard back from them, so it pays to dig around a bit.
Good point—having AFCI in the upgrade isn't cheap, so it really can add up if you aren't careful!