Editor’s note (August 2026): This is an archived post from the Smiley Electric blog. Prices quoted reflect the time of writing. For current numbers, see our help & cost guides or give us a call.
Can I get a better price?”
It’s one of the most common questions homeowners ask when looking to hire a contractor. And we get it—no one wants to overpay.
But when it comes to electrical work, choosing the cheapest contractor can often end up being the most expensive mistake.
Here’s why.
Low Bids Often Cut Corners
If someone offers you a price that sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
To offer rock-bottom pricing, some contractors:
- Use unlicensed workers
- Skip permits
- Install subpar or unsafe materials
- Rush the job or leave it unfinished
The result? You may save a few bucks today, but you’ll pay a lot more in repairs, fines, or dangerous situations down the road.
Not All Contractors Are Created Equal
At Smiley Electric, we often get called in to fix work that was done cheaply and incorrectly by someone else. It’s heartbreaking for the customer—and frustrating for us to see someone get burned by a bad decision.
Choosing a contractor isn’t like buying a toaster on Amazon. You’re inviting someone into your home and trusting them with your family’s safety. That’s worth more than just saving $100 on a quote.
What You Should Compare Instead of Just Price
When comparing contractors, ask:
- Are they licensed and insured?
- Do they pull permits and follow local codes?
- Do they clearly explain the scope of work?
- Do they have real, recent reviews?
- Will they be around if something goes wrong?
Smiley Electric checks all of these boxes—and we put it in writing.
Real Value = Quality + Reliability + Peace of Mind
We’re not the cheapest electrician in Portland or Beaverton—and we’re proud of that.
We charge fairly for licensed, top-tier work that’s:
- Done right the first time
- Backed by warranty
- Fully code-compliant
- Handled with professionalism and care
You’ll never get hit with surprise fees or vague estimates. Just clear communication and solid craftsmanship—start to finish.
✅ Let’s Make It Easy
If you’re price shopping, we encourage you to compare value, not just dollar signs.
Want to know exactly what you’re getting and why? We’d love to give you a detailed, honest quote—no pressure, no gimmicks.
Smiley Electric – Doing It Right, Not Just for the Right Price.