EXAMPLE AT A GLANCE
This fictional Halifax, Nova Scotia outdoor security lighting installation example contains 7 itemized costs totaling C$3,705.00 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: Three exterior light points
Install three selected exterior security lights on accessible walls using confirmed suitable supply routes and controls.
The fictional project is set in Halifax, Nova Scotia. 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
- Halifax, Nova Scotia
- 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 Halifax, Nova Scotia.
| Work item | Quantity | Unit rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Site and lighting layout | 1 job | C$240.00 | C$240.00 |
| Exterior light allowance | 3 each | C$235.00 | C$705.00 |
| Sensor and control allowance | 1 set | C$280.00 | C$280.00 |
| Cable and weatherproof fittings | 1 job | C$395.00 | C$395.00 |
| Cable routing labour | 10 hours | C$120.00 | C$1,200.00 |
| Luminaire fitting | 3 each | C$205.00 | C$615.00 |
| Testing and aiming | 1 job | C$270.00 | C$270.00 |
| Illustrative subtotal | C$3,705.00 | ||
Check the arithmetic
- Exterior light allowance: 3 each × C$235.00 = C$705.00.
- Sensor and control allowance: 1 set × C$280.00 = C$280.00.
The rounded line amounts add to C$3,705.00. The PDF's tax field is 0%, so its illustrated total stays C$3,705.00 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: Record mounting height, coverage direction, cable routes and switching positions for each light. Product decision: Separate luminaire, sensor and weatherproof fitting allowances.
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
Confirm supply, access and control logic before fixing or drilling.
Outside this example: No new main panel, CCTV installation or high-level access equipment.
Hidden cable routes or inadequate supply protection change the design. 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.
- Record mounting height, coverage direction, cable routes and switching positions for each light.
- Separate luminaire, sensor and weatherproof fitting allowances.
- Confirm supply, access and control logic before fixing or drilling.
- Hidden cable routes or inadequate supply protection change the design.
Questions about this estimate
Which quantity controls this outdoor security lighting installation estimate?
Record mounting height, coverage direction, cable routes and switching positions for each light.
When should this outdoor security lighting installation quote be revised?
Hidden cable routes or inadequate supply protection change the design. No new main panel, CCTV installation or high-level access equipment.
MAKE THE NEXT ESTIMATE YOUR OWN
Build an outdoor security lighting 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.
