Electrical Work Invoice Template - New Zealand

GST at 15% applies to most electrical services in New Zealand and must be clearly itemized on your invoice. Add GST to your subtotal—don't include it within individual line item prices. Your invoice should show the subtotal, GST amount, and total separately so it's immediately clear to the client. If you're not GST-registered, you cannot charge GST, but you should state on the invoice that 'GST not applicable.' Always keep records of when you registered with IRD, as this affects which invoices require GST.

Yes, call-out fees are standard in the electrical industry and protect against no-shows and short jobs. Include it as a separate line item on your invoice—typically $50–$150 depending on location and time of day. Label it clearly (e.g., 'Service call fee' or 'Call-out charge') so clients understand it's not repair work. Some electricians waive it if work exceeds a certain value or if the job is booked in advance. Always confirm your call-out policy with clients before arriving to avoid disputes.

Separating materials from labour provides transparency and allows clients to understand exactly what they're paying for. It's also important for GST purposes—you can only claim GST on materials and labour your business incurred, not on items clients supplied. If a client wants to supply their own materials, a separate labour line makes pricing adjustments straightforward. This breakdown also helps you track profit margins and improves record-keeping for tax purposes.

Most New Zealand electricians use a combination: a call-out fee covers the site visit and diagnosis, then you charge labour at an hourly rate or provide a fixed price for the job once scope is confirmed. Residential work often uses fixed pricing for common jobs (e.g., outlet installation at $65 per outlet), while complex or time-intensive work suits hourly rates. Commercial and industrial projects typically use project rates based on estimated hours. Always provide a clear estimate before starting, especially for hourly work, so clients know the expected cost.

Be specific about what was done: instead of just 'electrical work,' write 'Install LED downlights—office area (quantity 12)' or 'Replace circuit breakers—main panel (quantity 3).' Detailed descriptions protect both you and the client by creating a clear record of completed work and help justify your charges. They're also essential if disputes arise or if the client later claims work wasn't done. For safety-critical work like testing and tagging, include the date, equipment serial numbers, and any defects found.

Yes, markups on materials are standard and expected in the electrical industry. Most electricians add 20–40% markup on parts to cover handling, storage, delivery, and profit. Your invoice should show the material cost and markup separately or indicate a total materials charge. Being transparent helps maintain client trust; if you're buying materials at wholesale and charging retail, explain that upfront. For large projects, clients may ask to supply their own materials—clarify beforehand whether you'll accept this and how it affects your pricing.

Common line items include: safety inspections, installations (outlets, switches, downlights), repairs, cable work, circuit breaker replacement, testing and tagging, and emergency lighting. Itemizing each service helps clients see what they paid for and makes future invoices easier to compare. For larger projects, group related items (e.g., 'Lighting installation—foyer area' with individual quantities) so the invoice remains readable but detailed. This also simplifies quoting follow-up work since clients and electricians both have a clear reference.

Yes, include warranty details on the invoice to set expectations and protect yourself. State the warranty period (commonly 1–2 years for installations) and what it covers—typically defects in workmanship but not normal wear or client damage. Note any exclusions (e.g., 'warranty does not cover power surges or misuse'). You can also add your contact details for post-completion follow-up, especially for safety-critical work. This transforms your invoice into both a receipt and a service agreement that both parties reference.