[BSponz1]

Hi – I’m in the process of planning a basement remodel. The only 2 parts that I’m not tackling myself are the electric and drywall. I recently received a quote from an electrician that my architect usually works with that I believe is on the high side. He did, however, seem very competent and I always tend to go with recommendations vs. pulling someone out of the phone book. I have no idea what is reasonable, but I did have a very other electrians come out about 2 years ago to give me rough estimates and theirs were in the 4K range. I was wondering if there’s anyone on the boards that could provide their expertise and give me an opinion whether the estimate is a good one. I live in NJ if that helps.

Two other sub-questions – what are your opinions about me trying to tackle at least the rough in wiring myself and do you think the amount of baseboard heating elements is too much in the estimate? I know you don’t have the plans (the pdfs I have of those are too large to attach in this message board), but the space is about 900 of finished space. I’m looking at the plans the architect drew up and he has a base board in the laundry room (?) which just seems unnecessary, since it’s only 50 or so sq feet. Again, I’m not an expert, but just looking for ways to save money. Thanks!

 

[rjniles]

The estimate for the work in the estimate does not look at all high to me. The electrician is quoting based on the plan, whether the plan is overkill is up to you to decide.

What I don't like in the estimate is that the electrician is not getting the permit or calling for the inspections. That should be part of his job. Are you sure he is licensed?

 

[electures]

Hi – I’m in the process of planning a basement remodel. The only 2 parts that I’m not tackling myself are the electric and drywall. I recently received a quote from an electrician that my architect usually works with that I believe is on the high side. He did, however, seem very competent and I always tend to go with recommendations vs. pulling someone out of the phone book. I have no idea what is reasonable, but I did have a very other electrians come out about 2 years ago to give me rough estimates and theirs were in the 4K range. I was wondering if there’s anyone on the boards that could provide their expertise and give me an opinion whether the estimate is a good one. I live in NJ if that helps.

Two other sub-questions – what are your opinions about me trying to tackle at least the rough in wiring myself and do you think the amount of baseboard heating elements is too much in the estimate? I know you don’t have the plans (the pdfs I have of those are too large to attach in this message board), but the space is about 900 of finished space. I’m looking at the plans the architect drew up and he has a base board in the laundry room (?) which just seems unnecessary, since it’s only 50 or so sq feet. Again, I’m not an expert, but just looking for ways to save money. Thanks!

The work you are talking about will fall under the New Jersey Rehab Subcode and the 2008 NEC. Follow the link in my signature for DIY in New Jersey.

 

[BSponz1]

Thanks for you input. Yes, I'm certain he's licensed. Any thoughts on the need for so many heating elements?

 

[J. V.]

Get three (3) quotes. Not one.
Make sure they are quoting apples to apples. Make each quote the exact job with the same materials to get the best idea. I check list would be great. Have each quote from a check list or scope of the job.

 

[TTW]

How is the rest of your house heated? Elec heat is very pricy to operate.

 

[hammerlane]

what are your opinions about me trying to tackle at least the rough in wiring myself

Nobody on this forum would have any idea of your level of electrical competence.

 

[Oso954]

Even when you are competent, sometimes it just too many cooks spoil the broth. Or, left hand has to figure out what right hand did.

The added communication time and complications can cost you more than you are trying to save.

Leave it to the electrician.

 

[Macken]

The work you are talking about will fall under the New Jersey Rehab Subcode and the 2008 NEC. Follow the link in my signature for DIY in New Jersey.

2008? NJ has been on the 2011 for a while now.

 

[electures]

2008? NJ has been on the 2011 for a while now.

New Jersey has been under the 2011 NEC since the six month grace period ended on 11/7/12. However, the OP is performing work on an existing dwelling which means it falls under the ReHab subcode and the 2008 NEC.

 

[oh'mike]

What I don't like in the estimate is that the electrician is not getting the permit or calling for the inspections. That should be part of his job. Are you sure he is licensed?

In some jurisdictions the GC or Homeowner must pull a permit for the entire job and list the subs--electrician and plumber --and their license info on the job permit.

It is unlikely that the city will issue separate permits for each phase on one job---

 

[JuzRick]

In some jurisdictions the GC or Homeowner must pull a permit for the entire job and list the subs--electrician and plumber --and their license info on the job permit.

It is unlikely that the city will issue separate permits for each phase on one job---

Oh'Mike: I agree. The same applies here in SC jurisdiction as a option for homeowner, at least most parts of SC that I know. The owner can sign as his own contractor. Here you will have to file a written affidavit as the primary part of the rule stating ownership of property.

 

[electures]

In some jurisdictions the GC or Homeowner must pull a permit for the entire job and list the subs--electrician and plumber --and their license info on the job permit.

It is unlikely that the city will issue separate permits for each phase on one job---

Here in New Jersey if the work only involves a single trade such as electrical then the EC may handle the entire permit application. When more then one trade is involved then the homeowner or GC may handle the application. In which case the EC just completes the electrical subcode tech section and hands it over to the HO or GC who then turns it in to the COnstruction Office along with all the other tech sections.