Free Electrical Estimate Template
Electrical work is highly regulated for good reason — faulty wiring causes fires, and code violations create liability. Property owners need a clear, professional estimate that explains what electrical work is needed, why it is needed, what materials will be used, and what it will cost. This free electrical estimate template gives licensed electricians and electrical contractors a complete format for quoting residential, commercial, and industrial electrical projects.
The template covers scope definitions, circuit-by-circuit material breakdowns, labor estimates, permit fees, warranty terms, and clear payment terms. It is designed to be comprehensive enough for panel upgrades and new construction projects while remaining clear enough for a simple outlet installation.
What Is an Electrical Estimate?
An electrical estimate is a document prepared by a licensed electrician or electrical contractor that communicates the expected cost of electrical work. It is based on a site assessment or review of electrical plans, during which the electrician identifies what work is required to meet the client's needs, comply with applicable codes, and ensure safe operation of the electrical system.
Electrical estimates are inherently technical — they must specify wire gauge, circuit amperage, panel capacity, and equipment ratings that meet National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements. A professional electrical estimate does not just provide a price; it demonstrates that the contractor understands the technical requirements and has specified appropriate materials.
Key Sections of an Electrical Estimate
Contractor Information — Company name, address, phone, email, state electrical contractor license number, and proof of insurance. The license number is required on all estimates and invoices in most states.
Client and Property Information — Client name, property address, and the date of the site assessment.
Scope of Work — Detailed description of the electrical tasks to be performed, referencing code requirements where relevant. For example: "Install 20 dedicated 20-amp circuits for bedroom receptacles per NEC 210.52."
Existing System Assessment — For any work involving the existing electrical system, describe the current conditions: panel rating, panel age and condition, existing circuits, any deficiencies noted during inspection.
Material Specifications — Itemized list of all electrical materials:
- Wire (by gauge and type — NM-B, THHN, etc.)
- Breakers (by amp rating and type — standard, GFCI, AFCI)
- Panels and subpanels
- Receptacles, switches, and dimmers
- Fixtures and light fixtures
- Any specialized equipment (EV chargers, generators, solar)
Labor — Estimated hours by task, multiplied by the labor rate. Show separately for rough-in and trim/finish work if applicable.
Permits and Inspections — Required permits, associated fees, and inspection schedule. Note who is responsible for obtaining the permit.
Utility Coordination — Any utility involvement (temporary service, meter upgrades, trenching coordination) with associated costs.
Warranty — State the contractor's labor warranty (typically 1-2 years) and note manufacturer warranties on equipment.
Payment Terms — Deposit for materials and scheduling (common for larger jobs), balance upon completion, accepted payment methods.
How to Create an Electrical Estimate
Step 1: Assess the Existing System — For service work, inspect the current electrical panel, test circuits, check grounding, and identify any code violations or safety hazards. Document everything.
Step 2: Determine Code Requirements — Apply the NEC and any local amendments. For example, kitchen receptacle circuits require 20-amp AFCI protection; bathroom receptacles require 20-amp GFCI protection. Specifying code-compliant materials protects the client and demonstrates your expertise.
Step 3: Size the Work Correctly — Calculate load requirements for new circuits (using NEC load calculation standards), size wire correctly for ampacity, and ensure the panel has sufficient capacity for new circuits.
Step 4: Price Materials — Get current pricing for panels, breakers, wire, and fixtures. Use your standard markup for materials.
Step 5: Estimate Labor — Use task-based labor estimates from historical data. Always add buffer time for access challenges and code compliance issues.
Step 6: Present with Explanations — Electrical work can be intimidating to homeowners. Walk the client through what the work involves, why each element is necessary, and what the NEC requires. Educated clients are more confident in approving the estimate.
Sample Electrical Estimate
BrightWire Electric LLC
2300 Ampere Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (555) 890-1234 | License: CA-Electrical-876543 | Insured
ESTIMATE #BW-2026-0414
Date: April 14, 2026
Valid Until: May 14, 2026
Client: Thomas Park
Property: 812 Magnolia Street, San Diego, CA 92101
Scope of Work: Panel upgrade from 100-amp to 200-amp service. Replace existing Federal Pacific panel (noted safety concern) with new Square D QO 200-amp main breaker panel. Install 8 new 20-amp AFCI circuits for bedroom and living areas. All work per NEC 2023 and San Diego municipal code.
| Item | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Square D QO 200-amp panel | Main breaker, 40 spaces | $485 |
| 20-amp AFCI breakers (Square D QO) | 8 | $280 |
| #12 THHN wire (per 500ft roll) | 2 | $320 |
| #12 NM-B wire (per 500ft) | 2 | $290 |
| Single gang boxes | 12 | $48 |
| Receptacles (15-amp, tamper-resistant) | 12 | $72 |
| Panel labor (remove old, install new) | 10 hrs | $1,400 |
| Circuit installation labor (8 circuits) | 12 hrs | $1,680 |
| Permit and inspection (SDG&E coordination) | 1 | $350 |
| Estimated Total | $4,925 |
Warranty: 2-year labor warranty on all installation work. Square D manufacturer warranty on panel and breakers (transferable to homeowner upon registration).
Payment Terms: 40% deposit ($1,970) to schedule. Balance ($2,955) due upon final inspection approval.
Related Templates
- HVAC Estimate Template — Similar format for HVAC contractors.
- Plumbing Estimate Template — Similar format for plumbing contractors.
- Contractor Estimate Template — General-purpose contractor estimate.
- Home Renovation Estimate Template — For electrical work as part of renovation projects.
- Free Estimate Template — Universal free estimate for any trade.