How AV technicians price their work

Prices for AV work vary widely between countries, cities and types of job, so this guide does not quote figures. Instead it explains how technicians usually charge and what pushes a job up or down, so you can read quotes with confidence.

The common ways technicians charge

• Hourly rate. Common for fault-finding and small jobs where the time needed is hard to predict.
• Call-out fee. A fixed charge for attending, sometimes including the first part of an hour. Expect higher call-out fees after hours, on weekends and public holidays.
• Day rate. Used for installs, events and larger projects where the technician is on site all day.
• Fixed quote. A set price for a defined job, such as mounting four screens and running cables. Good for budgeting, as long as the scope is written down clearly.
• Maintenance agreement. A regular fee for scheduled check-ups and, often, faster response when something breaks.

What makes a job cost more

• Access: high ceilings, solid concrete walls, or no space to run cables.
• Working outside opening hours so guests are not disturbed.
• Equipment the technician supplies, and whether it is consumer or commercial grade.
• Travel time, especially outside the technician's usual area.
• Undocumented existing systems that take time to trace before work can start.

Comparing quotes fairly

Two quotes are only comparable if they cover the same work. Check each one for:

• Exactly what is included: labour, equipment, cabling, mounting hardware and disposal of old gear.
• The make and model of any equipment supplied.
• Warranty on labour and equipment, and who you call if it fails.
• Whether testing, staff training and documentation are included.
• Payment terms and deposit.

The cheapest quote can turn out the most expensive if it uses consumer equipment that fails under daily use. Read our guide on commercial displays versus consumer TVs before you choose screens.

Getting started

Technician profiles on this site show their skills and, where they choose to, their indicative hourly or day rates. Browse technicians near you and message two or three with the same job description to compare.