What is an Electrical Design Consultant?

An Electrical Design Consultant works with you to design the layout and specifications of your home’s electrical system. This includes lighting points, power outlets, switches, appliance wiring, data and AV cabling, and any smart home integrations. They’ll also prepare an Electrical Selections Schedule to support your electrical contractor.


This appointment typically happens after framing and window installation, but before rough-in for electrical services begins.

What does an Electrical Design Consultant do?

Your consultant will complete works according to your agreed scope.


Typically, they will:

  • Review your floor plan, lifestyle preferences, and lighting needs
  • Prepare a full electrical layout plan and point schedule
  • Nominate switch styles, lighting types, automation zones, and any special features
  • Prepare an Electrical Selections Schedule for use during installation
  • Coordinate with your site supervisor before rough-in begins


Some also offer 3D walk-throughs or home automation packages as part of their service.

Tip: Plan Your Power Point and Switch Locations Early

Remember to think practically: include power points in wardrobes, under vanities, and in hallways for robot vacuums!

What Makes a Good Electrical Design Consultant?

Look for someone who offers:

  • Fixed pricing with clear scope for design, documentation, and selections
  • Experience with new homes and working alongside electricians
  • The ability to suggest practical additions you might not think of (USB points, dimmers, sensors)
  • Familiarity with BASIX or energy compliance for lighting and appliances
  • Strong communication and document delivery within your build timeline

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Electrical Design Consultants, you’ll need:

  • Final architectural floor plan (PDF)
  • A rough idea of appliance brands and features (e.g., ducted vs split AC, induction cooktop, home theatre)
  • Preferred lighting style and finish (e.g., warm vs cool, matte black switches)
  • Site access for consultant (if doing a walk-through)
  • Timeline for when rough-in needs to start

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I make changes after rough-in?

    Technically yes — but they’re expensive and slow down your build. Always aim to lock your design in early.


  • Will they liaise with my electrician?

    Yes — most will provide detailed documentation and can speak directly to your electrical team if needed.



How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.