What this service involves
Investigate load, appliance and wiring causes and correct a minor accessible fault if found.
Typical scope and limits: Simple repair allowance. Major rewiring and appliance repair excluded.
Who usually needs it
Homeowners dealing with tripping breakers, dead circuits, flickering, warm devices or inspection findings.
Estimated pricing
$180 per hour (troubleshooting labor)
Priced per one circuit. This is a planning range, not a quote.
Project ranges include labor and standard installation materials unless a listing says otherwise. Hourly rates are labor only, and equipment you supply (such as chargers, fixtures or fans) is not included. Permit fees and sales tax are additional. Estimates are free, including on-site visits.
Electrical work may require openings in walls or ceilings. Drywall patching, texture, and painting are not included and must be arranged with others.
What an electrician evaluates first
- Symptoms and when they occur
- Affected circuits and devices
- Panel condition and protection
- Previous alterations
Typical work sequence
- Discuss symptoms
- Isolate and test
- Explain the cause and options
- Repair with approval
Access and disruption
Diagnosis focuses on accessible devices, boxes and the panel. Hidden faults can need further access.
Permits and inspection
New circuits, equipment changes and most wiring alterations normally need an electrical permit and inspection. In Washington, Labor & Industries issues electrical permits except in cities that run their own electrical program, so the permitting authority depends on the property address rather than the mailing city. True confirms the correct authority before work starts. Permit fees are additional to the estimate.
Helpful, safe photos
The affected device, the panel door closed, and notes on what happens and when. Only photograph what is safely visible — never remove electrical covers.
Questions
Is troubleshooting a flat fee?
No. Troubleshooting is $180 per hour; parts and repairs are separate.
Should I keep resetting a breaker?
No. A breaker that trips repeatedly is signaling a problem. Leave it off and call.
Not sure what you need?
Send a photo. Ask a certified electrician.
Not sure what you need? Send a photo and tell True what’s going on or what you’d like to change. Get help understanding your options and the next step.
Tell True about your project
What happens next
Tell us what you’re working on. True will review your request and respond by your preferred contact method. Together, we’ll determine whether the next step is advice based on your photos, a visit, or an estimate. Estimates are free, including on-site visits.