The Ground has been broken and the frame has been built, the next step is to work on the electrical side of the build. While it may seem like just a few wires and light switches, there are many factors to consider when it comes to the electrical cost of a new commercial build.
The expert technicians at AJ’s Electrical have broken down all the aspects that are associated with electrical work in new commercial construction and offered insights into the costs.
Materials
When it comes to electrical cost considerations in a new commercial build, materials will be one of the only aspects where you’ll be able to lower your costs, if needed. This typically involves choosing between certifiable or generic brand materials.
While certifiable brands may come at a higher price point, you are also typically paying for higher-quality products. Often times these will last much longer than their generic counterparts and have a better option for warranties.
On the other hand, generic brands may save you money initially but they are also more likely to cost you more in the long run due to maintenance, replacement and any electrical damage due to the lower-quality materials.
Type of Electrician
In the world of construction, there are plenty of electricians to hire but the main question here is: do you hire independent contractors or go with large-company electricians?
Large-company electricians typically charge more as they must account for their larger overhead. However, this also guarantees that you will have well-trained, insured, and experienced electricians. It may also be easier to ensure that the quality and timeliness of the project are done to your satisfaction as the company will want to maintain their reputation.
Independent contractors come at a lower cost but there is a worry that you may not find a highly qualified electrician. When dealing with an independent contractor, it may also be more difficult to ensure that they uphold their contract which may result in you spending more money in overage fees, or even legal fees.
Location
Something that might be overlooked in the initial planning phase, when considering electrical costs, is the location of the build. A building that is situated in an urban setting is set to have lower electrical installation costs than one in a small suburban or rural area. This is due to the amount of labor required to ensure that the building has sufficient power sources as this may not be a luxury in a rural area.
The construction site’s location also impacts the costs, as electricians may charge more for travel and transportation along with their labour. All of these factors need to be accounted for when offering a quote for electrical costs.
On average, here are some average costs for electrical installations to help you determine your budget:
- Electrical Wiring – $15 to $20 per square foot
- Electrician Labour – $120 to $200 per hour
- Electrical Inspection – $450 to $650
- Electrical Panel – $600 to $2,000
- Electrical Outlets – $100 to $300
When it comes to getting an estimate, it’s recommended that you receive at least three in-person estimates. This offers you an opportunity to compare the quotes and ensure that you’re not being overcharged. Avoid hiring the company that has offered the lowest estimate, as there is reason to suspect that the quality of work may suffer.
Once you’ve found an electrician who is offering a reasonable quote, make sure to check their Google Reviews, and any other review website such as HomeGuide or HomeStars.
Ensure that you receive a detailed contract and warranty assurance in writing before the work begins and never pay in full before the project has been completed. Payment plans are recommended to avoid this.
While it may seem like electrical costs for a new construction project can be costly, you’ll want to ensure that all electrical components in your building are installed correctly and safely as your building won’t be able to function without it. Think of the costs as an investment as shelling money during the construction phase may save you a lot more in the long run.
