DIAGNOSTIC & TROUBLESHOOTING
Professional electrical diagnostics with 3 service levels for every situation — from a single dead outlet to whole-home power issues. Accurate diagnosis, honest recommendations.
Our 3 Diagnostic Levels
We offer three levels of diagnostics based on the complexity of the issue. This way, you only pay for the level of investigation your situation requires.
Level 1 — Single Issue
BasicFor a single issue in one location — like a dead outlet, one light not working, or a single breaker tripping. Includes visual inspection, testing, and diagnosis of the specific problem.
Best for: Simple, isolated issues
Level 2 — Multiple Issues / Deeper Investigation
StandardFor multiple related issues or problems that require deeper investigation — like partial power loss in several rooms, repeated breaker trips, or intermittent problems. Includes circuit tracing, panel inspection, and multi-point testing.
Best for: Multiple symptoms or recurring problems
Level 3 — Complex / Whole-Home
AdvancedFor complex, whole-home, or hard-to-find intermittent problems — like flickering lights throughout the house, unexplained power fluctuations, or a full panel evaluation. Includes comprehensive system analysis, advanced testing equipment, and a detailed written report.
Best for: Whole-home issues, intermittent problems, panel evaluations
Not sure which level you need? Call us at (202) 641-1518 and we'll help you determine the right one.
What Happens After the Diagnostic?
After the diagnostic, we'll explain exactly what we found, what caused the issue, and what needs to be done to fix it. If repairs are needed beyond what's included in your diagnostic level, you'll receive a clear, written estimate before we proceed.
No Surprises
You'll know the full cost before any repair work begins.
No Pressure
You're never obligated to proceed with repairs.
Honest Diagnosis
We tell you what's actually wrong — not what makes us the most money.
Written Report
Level 3 diagnostics include a detailed written report of findings.
Save on Diagnostics With Membership
All Richie Electric membership plan members have the dispatch fee waived on every service call. Higher-tier members also get free service calls included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do electricians charge a diagnostic fee?
A diagnostic fee covers the electrician's time, expertise, professional tools, and systematic troubleshooting to identify the root cause of your electrical issue. It ensures you get an accurate diagnosis and honest repair recommendation, not a guess.
Is the diagnostic fee separate from the repair cost?
Yes, the diagnostic fee covers the investigation and identification of the problem. If more extensive repairs are needed beyond what's included in your diagnostic level, we provide a clear estimate before proceeding. However, the diagnostic fee may be credited toward larger repairs if approved the same day.
What if the problem is fixed during the diagnostic?
Great news — if the issue is resolved within the allowances of your diagnostic level (for example, tightening a loose connection or replacing a single faulty outlet during a Level 1 diagnostic), no additional repair cost is required. You only pay the diagnostic fee.
How do I know which diagnostic level I need?
Call us and we'll help you determine the right level. Level 1 is for a single issue, Level 2 for multiple related issues, and Level 3 for complex whole-home problems.
Can I avoid the diagnostic fee?
Richie Electric membership plan members have the dispatch fee waived on all service calls, and higher-tier members get free service calls included.
Need Electrical Troubleshooting?
Call us and we'll help you determine the right diagnostic level for your situation. No guesswork, no surprises.