I had a client reach out and ask if I could swing by and change out her flood light bulbs. I must’ve changed 1 or 2 in the past while cleaning windows. I told her we have a $100 minimum and asked if there was anything else she needs done to reach that cost. I wasn’t going to charge her $100 to change a couple of flood lights. She replied that we could clean the exterior windows of the front of her house. I knew they were flat glass and would be quick and easy. No problem. She then mentions there are 16 flood lights to be changed! Uh…ok. What would you charge for changing that many flood lights? Two story 6,000 sq ft house. I’ve never really charged for that as it’s usually 1 or 2. I feel like that alone should reach my $100 minimum. Thanks for feedback.
Yeah, sound’s like changing bulbs would reach your service call charge of $100.
It’s worth it to many folks. Some people are petrified of ladders! Though their fear may be (in some cases) unreasonable, it lies in your favor!
Next time, ask exactly how many bulbs need changing right off the bat. Like the first thing you say: “How many bulbs are we talking and have you purchased them already?” Then the ball is in your court.
Charge normal rate per hour? “Sorry, but we will need to charge more by the hour once the hundred dollar minimum is reached.” Consider the time for all the ladder moves. Unless this is a frequent and well paying customer you are willing to give a couple of free hours to. Just a thought; it’s still ladder moving and climbing time.
Hmmm, so it turns out she is requesting 16 flood light changes and you have a $100 minimum service call, as you should. Suggests add some exterior windows as well.
16 bulbs (provided) and 16 ladder moves X $5 = $80 ( Only $20 to go).
4 exterior windows X $5 = $20. (Not many windows get done on a 6,000 sq ft home).
- Adjust the bulb pricing to adjust value for a regular customer.
16 bulbs (provided) and 16 ladder moves X $3 = $48 (Only $52 to go),
add 10 exterior windows X $5 = $50…
Close enough, 16 bulb changes + 10 windows round up to $100. 
Good information to translate into your chosen field.
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/business-services-charge-how-much-30158.html
Great link @Garry!
