About Bob Thompson Expertise Answers to most electrical questions or problems. Answers will be code related and not necessarily correct in your jurisdiction. Master Electrician, former business owner, member of several professional organizations. I also have a little plumbing and mechanical knowledge, but I may be of little help in this area.
Experience Master Electrician, previous business owner, over 30 years experience, certified electrical, plumbing and mechanical inspector.
Question I have a 4 unit apt building. I am updating the panel boxes from 100 to 200 amps. I have installed 4 new HVAC systems in the building that must be wired. I want 4 dishwashers, 4 garbage disposals, 4 hot water heaters, 4 apt sized washer/dryers (stackable). I have only gotten 1 estiment for 15,500.00. Was wondering if you could tell me if you think this is a fair estimate?
I am located in Norfolk Va.
thank you
Answer I assume the contractor is doing a load analysis, and handling all the permits and such with the city and utility?
I can tell you that a 200 amp service, on average, costs about $1200. Bear in mind that all these costs are average and not locality specific. Your area may be higher or lower. So for 4 new services, that would be $4800. That leaves $10700 for the 20 branch circuits, or about $535 each. I think this figure is a bit high, but not being there and seeing what it is I'd be up against, that is just my opinion. $535 is more than enough for a man's one day wages and the little bit of material it would take to wire up one appliance. And I don't think it would take an entire DAY to wire up ONE appliance. Again, my opinion.
My advice? Get two more estimates. Reputable contractors, not someone who works out of the back of his truck.
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