Have you ever considered becoming an electrical estimator? You may wonder how do I even start? I am asked that question frequently. The answer may not be as difficult as you think and here is how. You will need to have some theory behind you. Hopefully you have gone through some formal training as an…
The election is behind us, the unknown about the economy is becoming clearer, and we know a little more about what we’re dealing with now. The New Year is upon us so when is there a better time to start thinking about improving your electrical estimating or contracting skills? DBP Electrical Consulting offers one on…
DBP Electrical Consulting continues to expand its reach beyond our base of operations located in Loveland Colorado. Recently DBP Electrical Consulting had the honor of working for Kevin Constable with Keen Ltd of Bermuda. We put together an estimate for the King Edward Memorial Hospital project floors three, four, and five. It was very interesting…
Do you know what traits to look for when hiring or replacing an estimator? What makes a good estimator? Is it knowledge of the code? Perhaps it is thoroughness and accuracy? Maybe it’s the ability to sit for long hours at a desk starring at electrical drawings. Chances are if you are reading this blog…
Are you making money on change orders? Most contractors believe they are but there are statistics to prove otherwise. When you price a change order do you simply price the change like any other estimate and just add what feels like a nice fat percentage since your already working on the project? If that is…
As I sit here in my office on these final days of 2011 I have been reflecting on the year that was and thinking about what 2012 might look like. Below are a few observations I have made and what I think could happen in 2012. From what I was able to ascertain dealing with…
Dealing with last minute scope changes on a bid day will be a lot easier if you put some thought into your estimate prior to starting your take-off. Using estimating software is essential to making accurate last minute changes! I have blogged about developing your process in the past. If you have developed a well…
In today’s competitive market your ability to value engineer (VE) projects may well be the difference between landing the job or not. Frequently the good ole days of simply being the low bidder and landing the job are long gone. More and more owners are taking the lowest bidders and allowing them to come up…
What would happen to your electrical contracting business if you became ill or injured today? Would it continue to function or would business come to a stand still? If you take a vacation does your business also or does it continue to make money? If you answered no to either of the previous two questions…
As seasoned estimator I think I have a pretty good feel for the market and award percentages. Recently I read a publication by another estimating service that claims to have an average award rate of 80% and not too long ago I spoke with yet another freelance estimator claiming unusually high award rates. I cannot…
