SOP Templates > Electrical > Bidding & Estimating > Estimating Process

Estimating Process for Electrical

The Estimating Process workflow provides electrical contractors with a reliable system for preparing competitive bids. It includes reviewing plans, quantifying circuits and devices, calculating labor hours, and incorporating supplier or subcontractor quotes. Managers review for accuracy, confirm compliance with code requirements, and align pricing with project budgets. By following this process, electrical companies reduce estimating errors, improve efficiency, and protect profitability. Clients benefit from clear, accurate proposals that build confidence. Teams gain accountability with documented assumptions and calculations. With this workflow in place, electrical contractors can strengthen professionalism, improve financial oversight, and deliver projects more reliably with accurate cost projections.

Review the RFQ, bid invitation, or client inquiry

Gather project details: plans, specs, site conditions, and schedule

Conduct a site visit if needed to assess access, logistics, and risks

Break down scope into key trades, phases, or cost categories

Quantify materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor needs

Request quotes from suppliers and subcontractors

Apply standard labor rates and productivity factors

Add markups for overhead, profit, and contingency

Review for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with scope

Prepare and format the estimate into a client-facing proposal

Review with project manager or leadership for approval

Submit proposal to client by due date

Log estimate in tracking system and follow up for feedback

Archive estimate for future use or comparison

Review the RFQ, bid invitation, or client inquiry

Gather project details: plans, specs, site conditions, and schedule

Conduct a site visit if needed to assess access, logistics, and risks

Break down scope into key trades, phases, or cost categories

Quantify materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor needs

Request quotes from suppliers and subcontractors

Apply standard labor rates and productivity factors

Add markups for overhead, profit, and contingency

Review for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with scope

Prepare and format the estimate into a client-facing proposal

Review with project manager or leadership for approval

Submit proposal to client by due date

Log estimate in tracking system and follow up for feedback

Archive estimate for future use or comparison