Hiring an electrical cost estimator is not as difficult a job as choosing the right expert for your project. Do you know a single error in your estimates can cost you up to 25% of your total budget? Do you want to take a risk on such a huge level? Of course not! First, you need to know about how you can find qualified electrical estimators and save your finances! Do not fret because in this guide we have compiled effective methods to hire an estimating expert. There is no ignominy in taking bits of help from guides!

Electrical systems are the main part of every type of project whether it is residential, commercial, or industrial. Without them the buildings are of no use, they can never be operational. That is why it is the responsibility of the project manager or electrical cost estimator to accurately estimate electrical costs. But if you do not have a qualified estimator by your side then inaccuracies can devour your project finances. To remain under budget, you must find a reliable cost estimator.

What are the Good Traits of a Qualified Electrical Cost Estimator?

A qualified electrical cost estimator is liable for doing the correct job. They never compromise on the quality of the electrical estimation. There are plenty of responsibilities that fall under the electrical estimator job. Only a qualified and responsible estimator can extract every inch of detail from a project’s blueprints and plans. The following are the traits of a professional electrical cost estimator:

❖ Investigating construction sites deeply

❖ Analyzing blueprints and drawings

❖ Creating accurate takeoffs

❖ Assessing material and equipment cost

❖ Analyzing the labor costs

❖ Good communication skills among other stakeholders

❖ Make a backup plan for contingencies

Steps to Hire a Qualified Electrical Cost Estimator?

1. Check on Multiple Social Media platforms

2024 is all about digitalization, which means anything that you can just think of is on the internet! First, look into different social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Google, Instagram, Yelp and much more! On these online platforms, you can look at their companies social media presence. This can help you shortlist competent estimators and then select the right one!

2. Match Skills According to your Project

After exploring different estimators on various sites, now you must match their skills based on the requirements of their job. It is said that the best way to choose an electrical cost estimator is by checking their experience. One must have at least 6 years of experience in a similar field.

Additionally, certifications from professional bodies such as

• American Estimators Organization (AEO)
• The American Association of Cost Engineers (AACE)
• American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE)
• Project Management Institute (PMI)

It indicates a high level of professionalism and expertise.

3. Assessing Portfolios

The portfolio of an electrical estimator must have samples of their work. It must include the comprehensive cost of electrical components. Like PVC Fitting, Lighting Fixtures, Lighting Controls, Rigid Fittings, Hangers and Supports, EMT Fittings, Grounding, fuses, conduits, and so much more. The portfolio must show the capability of the expert and what they have to offer.

4. Must-Have Qualities

The Electrical estimator you choose must know how to use advanced estimating tools and software. A good estimator always mentions in their profile what tools they use. They must use Cost Works Value, FastPIPE, Planswift, FastDUCT, Trimble, Bluebeam, RS Means, Quest Estimating, Xactimate, and RFMS for estimation. You can also ask them which tools they use to perform the estimation process.

5. What you should ask from the electrical estimator?

When you have the shortlisted names of the candidates, you must ask the sets of queries to select the most suitable one:

• What is your takeoff and estimation process?
• How do you guarantee that you are getting the accurate takeoffs?
• What modern estimating technology do you prefer to work on?
• Can you elaborate on your working methodologies?
• What is your past record or have you lost any bids till now?
• How do you handle lost bids?
• Do you complete the job on time?

So you can use all these questions to start a conversation. This way you can clear out your misunderstandings.

6. Finalize your Electrical Estimator!

You can now easily judge which estimator is better for your electrical job. After asking these queries, you can depend on the expert who has given you the most satisfactory answers. Then you can finalize their fee and must negotiate with them. There is no shame in asking for discounts and offers. Often some estimating companies and estimators offer discounted prices for first-time clients. This is how you can hire a qualified electrical estimator for your construction project and prevent over-budgeting.

Conclusion

To sum it up, hiring a qualified electrical cost estimator is an investment in the success of your construction project. One most suitable recommendation is SMA Estimating LLC which has employed the best electrical estimators. Their expertise is to provide precise estimations. Just follow the steps we have discussed in this article and hand over your project to a competent estimator. Remember, the right estimator can make a significant difference in the overall success of your project.