How to read an electrical quotation.

In short: a good electrical quotation lists each item with its quantity and price, says what is and is not included, states the payment terms and warranty, and shows how long the quote is valid. If you can add up the lines and see exactly what you are paying for, it is itemised properly.

A worked example

This is the sample quote on our home page, for a 4-room HDB flat with surface wiring:

22-way DB board, steel, with ELCB and MCB

$900

13A single socket x 3

$225

Ceiling fan installation x 2

$120

Aircon isolator point x 1

$170

Total

$1,415

What to check line by line

1. 1

   Is each item counted?

   Quantities let you compare two quotes fairly. "Wiring works: $2,000" tells you nothing.

2. 2

   Supply or install only?

   Ask who supplies the fittings. Ours covers installation; you supply the light fittings and fixtures.

3. 3

   What is excluded?

   Making good, disposal, after-hours work and permits can be extra. Ask.

4. 4

   Payment terms

   Ours is a 50% deposit on confirmation and the balance on completion.

5. 5

   Warranty

   Ours is a 12-month workmanship warranty from handover, in writing.

6. 6

   Validity

   Ours stays valid for 30 days.

Red flags

• A single lump sum with no breakdown.
• Lines such as "miscellaneous" or "sundries" with large amounts.
• A large payment demanded before any work is confirmed.
• No mention of a warranty or testing.

Read how to choose an electrician in Singapore for the questions to ask, and what a 4-room HDB job costs for typical ranges.