EXAMPLE AT A GLANCE
This fictional Saskatoon, Saskatchewan dimmer switch installation example contains 7 itemized costs totaling C$2,559.00 before tax or markup. The app-exported PDF uses the exact quantities and CAD rates shown in the table, with scope limits explained below.
Project scope: Six existing lighting circuits
Replace six suitable existing wall switches with selected compatible dimmers, then test operation with the connected lamps.
The fictional project is set in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Cedar & Beam Builders and Jordan Taylor are example names, not a contractor and client case study. The matching guide explains how measurement, product selection and site conditions affect the estimate.
- Location
- Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
- Prepared by
- Cedar & Beam Builders · fictional business
- Prepared for
- Jordan Taylor · fictional client
- Issued / valid through
- September 25 / October 25, 2026
The 7 CAD cost lines
The table uses the exact items, quantities and unit rates in the app-exported PDF. Multiply each quantity by its rate to check the amount. These chosen figures demonstrate the document; they are not surveyed prices or suggested rates for Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
| Work item | Quantity | Unit rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit compatibility survey | 1 job | C$255.00 | C$255.00 |
| Existing switch removal | 6 each | C$47.00 | C$282.00 |
| Dimmer product allowance | 6 each | C$115.00 | C$690.00 |
| Back-box parts allowance | 1 job | C$160.00 | C$160.00 |
| Dimmer fitting labour | 6 each | C$130.00 | C$780.00 |
| Lamp and control test | 6 each | C$47.00 | C$282.00 |
| Labelling and cleanup | 1 job | C$110.00 | C$110.00 |
| Illustrative subtotal | C$2,559.00 | ||
Check the arithmetic
- Existing switch removal: 6 each × C$47.00 = C$282.00.
- Dimmer product allowance: 6 each × C$115.00 = C$690.00.
The rounded line amounts add to C$2,559.00. The PDF's tax field is 0%, so its illustrated total stays C$2,559.00 before any markup. The sample shows 0% tax only to make the arithmetic visible. Determine any applicable GST, HST or PST and markup for the actual work before sharing a quote.
Measurement to verify: Count circuits and gangs, record lamp type, load and existing switch-box capacity. Product decision: Specify dimmer product by compatibility rather than a generic switch price.
Count the actual units, site visits and selected products separately. A count in this example is a document input, not a substitute for inspecting the real property.
Assumptions and exclusions
Verify supply isolation and trial one representative circuit first.
Outside this example: No new lighting circuits, wall rewiring or luminaire replacement.
Incompatible drivers or missing required conductors change equipment choice. Have the actual supply route, mounting and testing reviewed by the qualified person doing the work. Confirm any approval or inspection requirements for the project address before issuing a final price. Confirm a change and update the estimate before adding work that was not in the base scope.
Download the actual app PDF
The PDF was exported from Estimates for this fictional Canadian job. It carries a concise version of the project scope, plus the same customer, cost lines, CAD amounts and total used here. Its note covers the fictional tax setting and the brief's full exclusion sentence; the article records additional assumptions that do not fit in that PDF note.
Build the next estimate from your own inputs
- Measure the actual site and describe the work boundary in plain language.
- Confirm the selected products, access and handoff responsibilities with the client.
- Replace every fictional rate with your own labour, supplier and subcontractor figures.
- Check the relevant GST, HST or PST treatment and markup for the job without copying this sample's zero entry.
- Preview each PDF page, total and exclusion note before sharing.
- Count circuits and gangs, record lamp type, load and existing switch-box capacity.
- Specify dimmer product by compatibility rather than a generic switch price.
- Verify supply isolation and trial one representative circuit first.
- Incompatible drivers or missing required conductors change equipment choice.
Questions about this estimate
Which quantity controls this dimmer switch installation estimate?
Count circuits and gangs, record lamp type, load and existing switch-box capacity.
When should this dimmer switch installation quote be revised?
Incompatible drivers or missing required conductors change equipment choice. No new lighting circuits, wall rewiring or luminaire replacement.
MAKE THE NEXT ESTIMATE YOUR OWN
Build a dimmer switch installation estimate.
Enter the job scope in Estimates on iPhone or Android or start from an AI-assisted draft. Check every quantity, rate, allowance, client detail and note before exporting the PDF. Some app features may require an in-app purchase.
