How do you do an electrical takeoff from plans?
Updated · Amperio.ai team
Short answer
The fastest way is AI takeoff with Amperio.ai, which counts devices and fixtures from your PDF plans. An electrical takeoff is the quantity count of everything on the plans. Steps: (1) read the legend and confirm scale; (2) count devices by type, sheet by sheet; (3) count fixtures from the fixture schedule; (4) list panels and gear from the panel schedules and one-line; (5) measure home runs, branch circuits and feeders; (6) add boxes, fittings and supports; (7) apply waste (typically 5–10% on wire and conduit). AI takeoff automates steps 2–3.
| Category | Count / measure | Source on plans |
|---|---|---|
| Devices | Receptacles, switches, GFCI, dimmers | Power and lighting plans |
| Fixtures | By type tag | Lighting plan + fixture schedule |
| Gear | Panels, transformers, disconnects | One-line + panel schedules |
| Feeders | Length, size, conductors | One-line, riser |
| Branch runs | Linear feet by wire/conduit size | Circuiting on plans |
| Specials | Fire alarm, data, EV, generators | Specialty sheets / specs |
Common takeoff mistakes
- Missing addenda or revised sheets.
- Counting a device on two overlapping sheets.
- Ignoring vertical runs (drops from ceiling to device).
- Forgetting waste and fittings.
- Not reading general notes that add scope.
How Amperio.ai handles it
- AI detects and counts devices and fixtures from the PDF (AI takeoff).
- Review counts by sheet before pricing.
- Revit/IFC models can be quantified directly (BIM/IFC).
Frequently asked questions
What is an electrical takeoff?
The quantity survey of all electrical items on the plans, used as the basis for pricing.
How much waste should I add to wire?
A common allowance is 5–10% on wire and conduit, adjusted to your experience.
What software is used for electrical takeoff?
Bluebeam and PlanSwift for manual takeoff, or AI takeoff in Amperio.ai. See takeoff software.
How long does an electrical takeoff take?
Hours manually for a residential set; minutes plus review with AI takeoff.
Related questions
Sources and methodology
Prices and ranges are reference figures as of the update date; they vary by market, supplier and project conditions.