Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: Therealcrt, Location: Kansas City
Asked on: Sunday, February 2, 2025 at 6:38 pm EST
Answered on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 8:09 am EST
Question: I’m curious to see what anybody here would charge a customer for the following tasks1.) uninstall a 6 inch can trim and install an old work fan box then hang new pendant light. Also install a medallion to cover the gap that the pendant canopy won’t cover from the open 6 inch hole2.) in another location. Uninstall a 6 inch can trim again and install an old work fan box then assemble a fan with a light kit and install it. Also going to need a medallion to cover the gap again.3.) uninstall a bath fan light combo and install a new one. Hopefully won’t need to get into the attic because of the location is at the far pitch of the roof access is basically impossible. I have cut in new fans from the bottom before, but I should account for any hiccups along the way.I’m a licensed journeyman electrician 10 years experience currently making around 50 an hour curious to see what other people would charge for a job like this I was thinking 100 per hour 2 hour minimum. Idk
Okay, here's a breakdown of how I would approach pricing this job, considering your experience and location (which I'll assume is a standard cost-of-living area for this example -adjust as needed for your actual market). I'll break down each task and then give an overall job estimate.
Important Considerations Before Pricing
Material Costs
Are you providing the medallions, old work boxes, and any other hardware (wire connectors, screws, etc.)? This needs to be included. I will assume you are charging for these separately and this estimate does not include materials.
Travel Time/Trip Charge
Consider your travel time to the job site and back. A trip charge might be appropriate, especially if it's a significant distance.
Insurance & Overhead
You need to factor in your insurance costs, vehicle expenses, business expenses, and profit margin. Your hourly rate needs to cover these.
Permits
Will permits be required for any of this work in your area? If so, factor that cost and the time to obtain them.
Accessibility
You mentioned the attic access is difficult for the bath fan. This adds risk and potential extra time.
Customer
Is this a new customer, repeat customer, or a referral? You might offer slightly different pricing based on the relationship.
Warranty
Be clear about your warranty on the work.
Task Breakdown and Estimated Time/Price (assuming a $100/hr labor rate)
1. Pendant Light Installation with Medallion Uninstall Can Trim
0.25 hours (15 mins)
Install Old Work Fan Box
0.75 hours (45 mins). This can take longer if the hole needs adjustment.
Hang Pendant Light
0.75 hours (45 mins). Assembly time can vary greatly depending on the pendant.
Install Medallion
0.5 hours (30 mins). This assumes a relatively easy install with adhesive and/or screws.
Total Estimated Labor Time
2.25 hours
Estimated Labor Cost
$225
2. Ceiling Fan Installation with Medallion Uninstall Can Trim
0.25 hours (15 mins)
Install Old Work Fan Box
0.75 hours (45 mins)
Assemble Fan & Light Kit
1.0 - 1.5 hours (depending on complexity). Some fans are very involved.
Install Fan
0.75 - 1.0 hours. Balance and ensure it's secure.
Install Medallion
0.5 hours
Total Estimated Labor Time
3.25-4.0 hours
Estimated Labor Cost
$325-$400
3. Bath Fan/Light Combo Replacement Uninstall Old Unit
0.5 hours. Could be longer if it's rusted or stuck.
Install New Unit
1.0 - 2.0 hours. This is the trickiest part. Cutting in from below and dealing with existing ductwork can be time-consuming. Assume you need to make modifications.
Connect Wiring & Test
0.5 hours
Total Estimated Labor Time
2.0 - 3.0 hours
Estimated Labor Cost
$200 - $300
Overall Job Estimate
Labor
$225 + $325 + $200 = $750 (low end)
Labor
$225 + $400 + $300 = $925 (high end)
Materials
Add the cost of the old work fan boxes, medallions, connectors, screws, etc. (Estimate: $50-$100 depending on quality and quantity)
Trip Charge (Optional)
$50 - $100 (depending on distance)
Total Estimate (Rough): $800 - $1025 + materialsImportant Considerations and Recommendations
Provide a Detailed Quote
Break down the costs for each task in your quote. This shows the customer where the money is going. A "lump sum" can be scary.
Add a Contingency
Especially on the bath fan, add a line item for "Potential unforeseen issues with bath fan install" with a time/price range. This covers you if you hit a snag.
Set Expectations
Explain to the customer that these are estimates and that the final price could change based on unforeseen issues.
Get Approval for Extra Work
If you encounter something that will significantly increase the cost, get the customer's approval before proceeding.
Collect Payment
Be clear about your payment terms (e.g., payment upon completion).
Your $100/hour rate is reasonable for a licensed journeyman with your experience. However, you need to make sure you're factoring in ALL your costs (including overhead and profit) to ensure you're actually making money.
Good luck! Flag for review