Unfortunately there are many variables that effect his labor time. When we implemented D-Tools, we realized that we had been undercharging for pre-wires for the last decade, and using material margins to subsidize the labor costs.

We ended up taking several typical roughins and averaging the labor times for the different cables installed. Additionally, we bundled some cable pulls and used the an efficiency factor for pulling multiple cables. D-Tools also allows you to change the standard length of cables being pulled and adjust labor accordingly.

Our goal was to generate an acceptable margin on each run, knowing that we may be off in some instances. Be consistent on your estimating, go back and check your actual times against your estimated times, and make adjustments when necessary.

Even though two contractors may take identical times to run cables, one may have a different cost structure due to different overhead costs. The trunk slammer can afford to do it for less, and still make the same amount of profit. And unfortunately, some contractors don't know their true costs and loose money trying to compete with the other guys.

Hold your ground and pricing. Sell based on value, not price. (i know you didn't ask for selling advice).