Flat rate, hourly rate, service-call fee: how an electrician really bills, what’s included, and why the “cheapest” often ends up costing more. The straight goods, no jargon.
Flat rate or hourly?
Flat rate
All the work for a fixed price. That’s why the description must be clear and detailed: the length of wire included, the materials included, the labour — in short, exactly the work that will be done.
Hourly rate
A different logic: we bill the time actually spent on site. Ideal when the scope of work can’t be fixed in advance.
What’s included (and what isn’t)
In a flat-rate quote, all the work described is included in the price. What generally isn’t:
- Permits
- Unforeseen items — for example, a hidden installation that reveals anomalies or extra work not planned in the description.
- Access: if you’re not present or we can’t access the rooms to work, fees may apply.
Our fees, in plain terms
Current rates, for reference and subject to change. (Emergency, evening and weekend calls have separate pricing.)
What costs more than people think
- Moving existing circuits: often longer and more expensive than people imagine.
- Opening walls: once our work is done, they have to be closed and refinished — a cost that falls to the client, to plan into your overall budget.
A price 20 to 40% lower? Compare apples with apples
If one contractor is 20 to 40% below another, it’s not necessarily a bargain. Take the time to read both quotes carefully: same materials? same scope of work? same protections and warranties? It’s the only way to compare on a fair basis.
A fair price, no surprises
CMEQ-certified company holding an RBQ licence, serving Greater Montréal, Laval, the North Shore, the Laurentians and Lanaudière. We itemize, we explain, and we keep our word on site.
A clear price for your project
Describe your work and get an itemized quote — you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for. Free.
What people ask us
Flat rate or hourly: what’s the difference?+
The flat rate is a fixed price for well-described work (wire, materials, labour included). The hourly rate bills the time actually spent on site.
What isn’t included in a quote?+
Generally permits and unforeseen items (hidden anomalies, unplanned extra work). Fees may also apply if access to the rooms isn’t available.
Is there a service-call fee and a minimum?+
For hourly work: a $150 travel fee and $140/hr, with only a 1-hour minimum — while many electricians demand 2, 3 or 4 hours minimum.
Why be wary of a much lower price?+
A 20-40% gap often hides differences in materials, scope or warranties. Compare both quotes on the same basis before choosing.
Is the quote free?+
Yes. We assess your project and provide an itemized quote, no obligation.
