Yes. Osta offers free virtual assessments for straightforward projects where photos, videos, and descriptions provide sufficient information for accurate pricing. This option saves time, provides immediate estimates, and lets you make decisions without scheduling in-home visits.
Virtual Assessment Process:
Submission: Submit your service request through phone, email, or the Osta app, providing:
Detailed description of the work you need completed
Photos of the work area from multiple angles
Photos of your electrical panel, plumbing connections, or equipment (when relevant)
Videos demonstrating problems or showing spaces (especially helpful for layout assessment)
Any relevant measurements, existing equipment model numbers, or specifications
Review and Quoting: A licensed Osta professional reviews your submission, asks clarifying questions if needed, and prepares a comprehensive fixed-price quote including:
Itemized labor and material costs
Permit requirements and fees
Project timeline estimate
Warranty coverage details
Payment terms and deposit requirements
Most virtual assessments receive quotes within 24-48 hours of submission.
Approval and Scheduling: If you approve the quote, you pay a 10% deposit to secure your appointment slot, and we schedule installation at your convenience.
Best Use Cases for Virtual Assessment:
Straightforward Installations:
Installing light fixtures, ceiling fans, or bathroom exhaust fans when circuit capacity is confirmed
Adding outlets, switches, or GFCI protection in accessible locations
Mounting TVs with simple routing of concealed wiring
Installing doorbell systems or other low-voltage devices
Replacing existing fixtures with similar models
Equipment Replacement with Known Specifications:
Replacing water heaters with identical capacity and fuel type
Swapping thermostats or control systems with compatible models
Upgrading to smart switches or dimmers in existing boxes
When You Can Clearly Document:
Work areas are easily photographed from multiple angles
Circuit breakers, plumbing connections, or equipment are clearly visible and labeled
You can provide accurate measurements and spatial descriptions
No apparent complications or concerns about concealed conditions
When Virtual Assessment Is Not Recommended:
Troubleshooting and Diagnosis: If you're experiencing problems but don't know the cause—flickering lights, tripping breakers, intermittent power loss, slow drains, weak water pressure, HVAC performance issues—an on-site diagnostic visit is necessary. Visual inspection, testing equipment, and professional assessment cannot be replicated through photos.
Complex or Custom Projects: Panel upgrades, whole-home rewiring, structural modifications, custom lighting design, integrated smart home systems, and projects involving multiple trades benefit from in-person consultation to assess feasibility, discuss options, and develop comprehensive plans.
Uncertain Conditions: Older homes with unknown wiring, potential code violations, concealed plumbing routing, or structural concerns require direct inspection before accurate pricing is possible.
Why We Offer Both Options: Virtual assessments serve customers who value convenience and quick turnaround for straightforward projects. On-site diagnostics serve customers who need thorough inspection, expert diagnosis, or comprehensive project planning. Neither approach is inherently better—the right choice depends on your specific situation.
When you contact Osta, we'll discuss your project and recommend the approach that provides the most accurate pricing while respecting your time and preferences. You're never pressured toward either option—we simply help you choose the path that leads to the best outcome for your specific needs.