Emergency generator dispatch. What we do.
Emergency generator service calls in Marin have a defined scope and pricing. Here's what to expect when you call us during an outage with a failed generator.
By Steven Lockhart · Reviewed by Alex Towery, C-10 #989290
Updated 2026-06-16
Emergency generator service call scope: (1) Dispatch within 2-4 hours typical for Marin during normal outage conditions; longer during major storm events. (2) On-site diagnostic to identify failure cause (battery, fuel, control, transfer switch, mechanical). (3) Same-visit repair where possible — we carry batteries and common parts. (4) If parts required that we don't carry: ordered for next-business-day completion, generator may stay down in interim. (5) Transparent service call fee plus parts and labor — quoted before work begins. We service Generac, Kohler, Cummins, Briggs, Honda, Champion, and most major brands.
01What dispatch looks like in Marin.
Marin geography affects response time. From our Novato base, typical response times: Novato 30-45 min; San Rafael 45 min; Mill Valley/Larkspur/Corte Madera 50-60 min; Sausalito 60-70 min; West Marin (Point Reyes, Inverness, Olema) 90+ min due to driving distance. During major storm events, response is longer and triaged by severity. We communicate ETA when you call so you can make alternate arrangements during the wait if needed.
What to have ready when you call: generator make and model (or photo); estimated install year if known; recent service history (when was it last serviced); what you observed during the failure (any sounds, lights, error codes on control panel); whether the transfer switch shows any fault indication. This information lets us bring the right parts and increases the probability of same-visit repair. Don't have it ready? Call anyway — we'll work with whatever you can tell us.
02Diagnostic scope on emergency call.
Battery and starting system
Battery load test (not just voltage), starter motor function, starting circuits, charge system. This is checked first because it's the most common cause.
Fuel system
Fuel supply pressure (natural gas) or tank level/valve/regulator (propane), fuel lines, fuel pump operation (where applicable), carburetor or fuel injection function. Fuel issues are second most common.
Control system and transfer switch
Control board status, fault codes if any, communication between generator and transfer switch, transfer switch operation. Some 'generator won't start' scenarios are actually transfer switch failures — generator works fine but never gets the start signal.
03Pricing transparency.
Service call fee: $300-$450 typical for emergency dispatch (covers travel and first hour of diagnostic). After-hours (weekends, evenings, holidays) at higher rate. Common repair costs added to service call: battery $150-$300; fuel system component $100-$500; control board $300-$1,200; starter $300-$800; major component (alternator, engine repair) varies widely and may exceed cost-effective repair threshold for older units.
Decision framework for older generators: a 15+ year old generator with a major component failure (alternator, engine) may not be cost-effective to repair vs replace. New residential standby generator install $7,000-$15,000 typical depending on size; comparable to major repair on aging unit. We provide honest assessment when major repair is the question — repair vs replace decision matters and we don't recommend repairs that don't make economic sense for the customer.
Common questions.
How do I know when to call vs wait?
Call as soon as you confirm the generator isn't starting on its own when outage begins. Don't wait hours to see if it eventually starts (it won't, on its own). Don't troubleshoot extensively (you'll probably make it worse). Call us; we'll start dispatch while you describe symptoms. Early calls get earlier service slots during widespread outage scenarios.
Will you charge me if you can't fix it same visit?
Service call fee applies regardless of repair outcome (we're charging for diagnostic time and dispatch). If repair requires parts we don't carry: we quote the additional cost for parts and follow-up labor before ordering anything. Most cases resolve same-visit. The few that don't get clear timeline and cost communication before any commitment.
Do you service generators you didn't install?
Yes. We service all major brands regardless of installer. Most Marin standby generators are Generac, Kohler, Cummins, or Briggs; we have parts and diagnostic familiarity with all of these. Some specialty or imported brands may require parts ordering rather than same-visit completion.
What about ongoing service after the emergency?
After resolving emergency: we recommend signing up for annual service contract. Cost $250-$450/year for typical residential standby. Includes annual service (battery, oil, filters, fuel system, exercise, transfer switch test), priority dispatch during outages, and discount on parts. Most customers who experience one emergency-call scenario opt into annual service — the math is favorable.
How do you handle pricing — flat fee or hourly?
Both, depending on scope. Routine service calls and predictable scope (panel replacement, EV charger install, transfer switch install, fixture replacement) are flat-fee quoted up front. Diagnostic visits and emergency scope are hourly because we don't know what we'll find. Either way, you get a written quote before work starts on anything significant, and we don't proceed beyond the quote without your sign-off.
How quickly can you schedule?
Depends on scope and season. Emergency dispatch: same-day across Marin County (1-3 hours business hours, 1-4 hours after-hours). Same-day standard service: 3-6 hours from call when capacity allows; otherwise next business day. Scheduled service work: 1-3 weeks typical. Larger projects requiring permits and PG&E coordination: 4-12 weeks depending on scope. We're upfront about timeline at the quote stage.
What warranty do you offer on work?
Our standard residential warranty: 2 years on labor, manufacturer warranty on parts (varies by product — typically 1-10 years). Major installs (panels, generators, EV chargers) often have longer manufacturer warranties (5-10 years). If there's an issue with our work in the warranty period, we come back and fix it at no cost. We also stand behind work past warranty — repeat customers and referrals matter more than a transactional fix.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. California State License Board C-10 Electrical Contractor #989290, in good standing. Carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance as required by California law. Bondable on projects requiring it. Happy to provide proof of insurance to clients or property managers on request. License lookup: cslb.ca.gov.
Emergency response across Marin County.
Same-day dispatch for safety scenarios. Typical on-site time 1-3 hours weekday, 1-4 hours after-hours.