EMCOR (EME) 10-Q 28 Oct 14 2014 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Oct. 23, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'
Entity Registrant Name	'EMCOR GROUP INC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000105634	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	64,747,535

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$437,446	$439,813
Accounts receivable, net	1,233,916	1,268,226
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	121,577	90,727
Inventories	67,173	52,123
Prepaid expenses and other	66,558	79,216
Total current assets	1,926,670	1,930,105
Investments, notes and other long-term receivables	7,634	6,799
Property, plant and equipment, net	122,240	123,414
Goodwill	834,102	834,825
Identifiable intangible assets, net	513,001	541,497
Other assets	31,020	29,275
Total assets	3,434,667	3,465,915
Current liabilities:	'	'
Borrowings under revolving credit facility	0	0
Current maturities of long-term debt and capital lease obligations	19,138	19,332
Accounts payable	404,094	487,738
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts	384,782	381,295
Accrued payroll and benefits	247,151	237,779
Other accrued expenses and liabilities	191,965	172,599
Total current liabilities	1,247,130	1,298,743
Borrowings under revolving credit facility	0	0
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations	321,222	335,331
Other long-term obligations	340,592	352,215
Total liabilities	1,908,944	1,986,289
EMCOR Group, Inc. stockholders' equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, zero issued and outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 66,230,165 and 67,627,359 shares issued, respectively	662	676
Capital surplus	342,247	408,083
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-64,678	-65,777
Retained earnings	1,243,762	1,133,873
Treasury stock, at cost 659,841 and 730,841 shares, respectively	-10,302	-10,590
Total EMCOR Group, Inc. stockholders' equity	1,511,691	1,466,265
Noncontrolling interests	14,032	13,361
Total equity	1,525,723	1,479,626
Total liabilities and equity	$3,434,667	$3,465,915

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Preferred stock, par value (in US dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value (in US dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	66,230,165	67,627,359
Treasury stock, shares	659,841	730,841

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Revenues	$1,566,711	$1,605,315	$4,710,169	$4,684,248
Cost of sales	1,344,482	1,398,753	4,051,496	4,099,473
Gross profit	222,229	206,562	658,673	584,775
Selling, general and administrative expenses	159,983	147,917	454,243	419,679
Restructuring expenses	398	601	799	652
Gain on sale of building	11,749	0	11,749	0
Operating income	73,597	58,044	215,380	164,444
Interest expense	-2,397	-2,351	-6,887	-5,978
Interest income	186	234	641	862
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	71,386	55,927	209,134	159,328
Income tax provision	23,998	24,024	75,428	60,622
Income from continuing operations	47,388	31,903	133,706	98,706
Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes	-611	-3,010	-4,087	-17,621
Net income including noncontrolling interests	46,777	28,893	129,619	81,085
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-1,753	-2,203	-3,421	-3,214
Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. (in US dollars)	$45,024	$26,690	$126,198	$77,871
Basic earnings (loss) per common share:	'	'	'	'
From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders (in US dollars per share)	$0.68	$0.44	$1.94	$1.42
From discontinued operation (in US dollars per share)	($0.01)	($0.04)	($0.06)	($0.26)
Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders (in US dollars per share)	$0.67	$0.40	$1.88	$1.16
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share:	'	'	'	'
From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders (in US dollars per share)	$0.68	$0.43	$1.92	$1.40
From discontinued operation (in US dollars per share)	($0.01)	($0.04)	($0.06)	($0.26)
Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders (in US dollars per share)	$0.67	$0.39	$1.86	$1.14
Dividends declared per common share (in US dollars per share)	$0.08	$0.06	$0.24	$0.12

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'		'		'		'
Net income including noncontrolling interests	$46,777		$28,893		$129,619		$81,085
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:	'		'		'		'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-312		-491		-246		-463
Post retirement plans, amortization of actuarial loss included in net income	449	[1]	611	[1]	1,345	[1]	1,714	[1]
Other comprehensive income	137		120		1,099		1,251
Comprehensive income	46,914		29,013		130,718		82,336
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-1,753		-2,203		-3,421		-3,214
Comprehensive income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc.	$45,161		$26,810		$127,297		$79,122
[1]	Net of tax of $0.1 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended SeptemberB 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and net of tax of $0.4 million and $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Post retirement plans, amortization of actuarial loss included in net income, tax	$0.10	$0.10	$0.40	$0.50

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme3

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Cash flows - operating activities:	'	'
Net income including noncontrolling interests	$129,619	$81,085
Depreciation and amortization	27,211	25,907
Amortization of identifiable intangible assets	28,497	21,317
Deferred income taxes	4,434	-666
Loss on sale of subsidiary	608	0
Gain on sale of building	-11,749	0
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	-5,886	-1,267
Equity income from unconsolidated entities	-1,349	-880
Other non-cash items	8,005	2,403
Distributions from unconsolidated entities	1,640	634
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, excluding the effect of businesses acquired	-72,036	-60,486
Net cash provided by operating activities	108,994	68,047
Cash flows - investing activities:	'	'
Payments for acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired	0	-448,943
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	1,108	0
Proceeds from sale of building	11,885	0
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment	3,138	1,171
Purchase of property, plant and equipment	-27,574	-24,006
Maturity of short-term investments	0	4,616
Investments in and advances to unconsolidated entities and joint ventures	-1,865	0
Net cash used in investing activities	-13,308	-467,162
Cash flows - financing activities:	'	'
Proceeds from revolving credit facility	0	250,000
Repayments of long-term debt	-13,074	-6
Repayments of capital lease obligations	-1,272	-1,256
Dividends paid to stockholders	-16,109	-8,052
Repurchase of common stock	-76,395	-4,998
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	5,044	2,320
Payments to satisfy minimum tax withholding	-1,481	-927
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan	2,677	2,088
Payments for contingent consideration arrangements	0	-537
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	-2,750	-1,300
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	5,886	1,267
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-97,474	238,599
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-579	-750
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	-2,367	-161,266
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	439,813	605,303
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	437,446	444,037
Cash paid for:	'	'
Interest	5,606	4,893
Income taxes	60,276	85,479
Non-cash financing activities:	'	'
Assets acquired under capital lease obligations	$93	$475

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme4

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Equity (USD $)		Total	Common Stock [Member]	Capital Surplus [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]		Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
In Thousands
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012		$1,357,179	$680	$416,104	($81,040)	[1]	$1,022,239	($11,903)	$11,099
Net income including noncontrolling interests		81,085	'	'	'		77,871	'	3,214
Other comprehensive income		1,251	'	'	1,251	[1]	'	'	'
Common stock issued under share-based compensation plans	[2]	2,660	2	2,451	'		'	207	'
Common stock issued under employee stock purchase plan		2,088	'	2,088	'		'	'	'
Common stock dividends		-8,052	'	40	'		-8,092	'	'
Repurchase of common stock		-4,998	-1	-4,997	'		'	'	'
Distributions to noncontrolling interests		-1,300	'	'	'		'	'	-1,300
Share-based compensation expense		5,288	'	5,288	'		'	'	'
Balance at Sep. 30, 2013		1,435,201	681	420,974	-79,789	[1]	1,092,018	-11,696	13,013
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013		1,479,626	676	408,083	-65,777	[1]	1,133,873	-10,590	13,361
Net income including noncontrolling interests		129,619	'	'	'		126,198	'	3,421
Other comprehensive income		1,099	'	'	1,099	[1]	'	'	'
Common stock issued under share-based compensation plans	[2]	9,805	6	9,511	'		'	288	'
Common stock issued under employee stock purchase plan		2,677	'	2,677	'		'	'	'
Common stock dividends		-16,109	'	200	'		-16,309	'	'
Repurchase of common stock		-84,565	-20	-84,545	'		'	'	'
Distributions to noncontrolling interests		-2,750	'	'	'		'	'	-2,750
Share-based compensation expense		6,321	'	6,321	'		'	'	'
Balance at Sep. 30, 2014		$1,525,723	$662	$342,247	($64,678)	[1]	$1,243,762	($10,302)	$14,032
[1]	Represents cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments and post retirement liability adjustments.
[2]	Includes the tax benefit associated with share-based compensation of $6.2 million and $1.3 million for the nine months ended SeptemberB 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme5

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'	'
Tax benefit associated with share-based compensation	$6.20	$1.30

Basis_Of_Presentation

Basis Of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis Of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with instructions to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Consequently, certain information and note disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States have been condensed or omitted. References to the “Company,” “EMCOR,” “we,” “us,” “our” and similar words refer to EMCOR Group, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries unless the context indicates otherwise. Readers of this report should refer to the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
	In our opinion, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting only of a normal recurring nature) necessary to present fairly our financial position and the results of our operations. The results of operations for the three months ended September 30, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year ending December 31, 2014.
	During the third quarter of 2014, we ceased construction operations in the United Kingdom. As a result, the segment formally named the United Kingdom construction and building services segment has been renamed the United Kingdom building services segment. Our reportable segments have been restated in all periods presented to reflect this change.

New_Accounting_Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]	'
New Accounting Pronouncements	'
	New Accounting Pronouncements
	In May 2014, an accounting pronouncement was issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") to clarify existing guidance on revenue recognition. This guidance includes the required steps to achieve the core principle that a company should recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This pronouncement is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with no early adoption permitted. The guidance permits the use of one of two retrospective transition methods. We have not yet selected a transition method nor have we determined the effect that the adoption of the pronouncement may have on our financial position and/or results of operations.

Acquisitions_Of_Businesses

Acquisitions Of Businesses	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Acquisitions Of Businesses	'
	Acquisitions of Businesses
	On July 29, 2013, we completed the acquisition of RepconStrickland, Inc. (“RSI”), a leading provider of recurring turnaround and specialty services to the North American refinery and petrochemical markets. This acquisition expands and strengthens our service offerings to new and existing customers and enhances our position within the industrial services and energy market sectors. Under the terms of the transaction, we acquired 100% of RSI's stock for total consideration of $463.6 million. The acquisition was funded with cash on hand and $250.0 million from borrowings under our revolving credit facility. This acquisition was accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. We acquired working capital of $35.5 million and other net liabilities of $67.1 million and have ascribed $267.8 million to goodwill and $227.4 million to identifiable intangible assets in connection with the acquisition of RSI, which has been included in our United States industrial services segment. We expect that $49.0 million of acquired goodwill will be deductible for tax purposes.
	On December 2, 2013 and May 31, 2013, we acquired two companies, each for an immaterial amount. These companies primarily provide mechanical construction services and have been included in our United States mechanical construction and facilities services segment. The purchase price accounting for the acquisition of these businesses was finalized with an insignificant impact during 2013. The acquisition of these businesses was accounted for by the acquisition method, and the prices paid for them have been allocated to their respective assets and liabilities, based upon the estimated fair values of their respective assets and liabilities at the date of their respective acquisitions. We believe these businesses further expand our service capabilities into new geographical and/or technical areas.
	During the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, we recorded a reversal of zero and $3.1 million of liabilities resulting in non-cash income attributable to contingent consideration arrangements relating to prior acquisitions. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, we recorded a net reversal of $0.2 million and $6.0 million of liabilities resulting in non-cash income attributable to contingent consideration arrangements relating to prior acquisitions.

Disposition_of_Assets

Disposition of Assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Disposition of Assets	'
	Disposition of Assets
	In January 2014, we sold a subsidiary reported in our United States building services segment. Proceeds from the sale totaled approximately $1.1 million. Included in net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was a loss of $0.6 million from this sale, which is classified as a component of "Selling, general and administrative expenses" in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	On July 22, 2014, we sold a building and land owned by one of our subsidiaries reported in the United States mechanical construction and facilities services segment. We recognized a gain of approximately $11.7 million for this transaction in the third quarter of 2014, which has been classified as a "Gain on sale of building" in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	Due to recurring losses over the last several years in the construction operations of our United Kingdom segment and our negative assessment of construction market conditions in the United Kingdom for the foreseeable future, we announced during the quarter ended June 30, 2013 our decision to withdraw from the construction market in the United Kingdom. During the third quarter of 2014, we ceased construction operations in the United Kingdom. The results of the construction operations of our United Kingdom segment for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 are presented in our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements as discontinued operations.
	The results of discontinued operations are as follows (in thousands):
		For the three months ended September 30,							For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Revenues	$	3,166			$	23,752		$	17,149		$	69,973
	Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes	$	(611	)		$	(3,010	)	$	(4,087	)	$	(17,621	)
	Diluted loss per share from discontinued operation	$	(0.01	)		$	(0.04	)	$	(0.06	)	$	(0.26	)
	Included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are the following major classes of assets and liabilities associated with the discontinued operation (in thousands):
		September 30,			December 31,
		2014			2013
	Assets of discontinued operation:
	Current assets	$	10,927		$	26,630
	Non-current assets	$	359		$	833
	Liabilities of discontinued operation:
	Current liabilities	$	15,555		$	41,024
	Non-current liabilities	$	140		$	513
	At September 30, 2014, the assets and liabilities of the discontinued operation consist of accounts receivable, contract retentions and contract warranty obligations that are expected to be collected or fulfilled in the ordinary course of business. Additionally at September 30, 2014, there remained $2.2 million of obligations related to employee severance and the termination of leased facilities, the majority of which is expected to be paid over the next twelve months.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Earnings Per Share
	Calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Common Share
	The following tables summarize our calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Common Share (“EPS”) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands, except share and per share data):
		For the three months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	45,635		$	29,700
	Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes	(611		)	(3,010		)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	45,024		$	26,690
	Denominator:
	Weighted average shares outstanding used to compute basic earnings (loss) per common share	66,714,641			67,174,848
	Effect of dilutive securities—Share-based awards	702,906			988,853
	Shares used to compute diluted earnings (loss) per common share	67,417,547			68,163,701
	Basic earnings (loss) per common share:
	From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	0.68		$	0.44
	From discontinued operation	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.04	)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	0.67		$	0.4
	Diluted earnings (loss) per common share:
	From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	0.68		$	0.43
	From discontinued operation	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.04	)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	0.67		$	0.39
		For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc.	$	130,285		$	95,492
	Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes	(4,087		)	(17,621		)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	126,198		$	77,871
	Denominator:
	Weighted average shares outstanding used to compute basic earnings (loss) per common share	67,062,732			67,127,149
	Effect of dilutive securities—Share-based awards	739,874			992,591
	Shares used to compute diluted earnings (loss) per common share	67,802,606			68,119,740
	Basic earnings (loss) per common share:
	From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	1.94		$	1.42
	From discontinued operation	(0.06		)	(0.26		)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	1.88		$	1.16
	Diluted earnings (loss) per common share:
	From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	1.92		$	1.4
	From discontinued operation	(0.06		)	(0.26		)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	1.86		$	1.14
	There were no anti-dilutive stock options for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	Inventories in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets consisted of the following amounts (in thousands):
		September 30,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Raw materials and construction materials	$	35,618	$	32,795
	Work in process	31,555		19,328
		$	67,173	$	52,123

Debt

Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt	'
	Debt
	Debt in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets consisted of the following amounts (in thousands):
		September 30,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Term Loan	$	336,875	$	350,000
	Capitalized lease obligations	3,423		4,652
	Other	62		11
		340,360		354,663
	Less: current maturities	19,138		19,332
		$	321,222	$	335,331
	Credit Facilities
	Until November 25, 2013, we had a revolving credit agreement (the "2011 Credit Agreement") as amended, which provided for a revolving credit facility of $750.0 million. The 2011 Credit Agreement was effective November 21, 2011. Effective November 25, 2013, we amended and restated the 2011 Credit Agreement to provide for a $750.0 million revolving credit facility (the “2013 Revolving Credit Facility”) and a $350.0 million term loan (the "Term Loan") (collectively referred to as the "2013 Credit Agreement") expiring November 25, 2018. The proceeds of the Term Loan were used to repay amounts drawn under the 2011 Credit Agreement. We may increase the 2013 Revolving Credit Facility to $1.05 billion if additional lenders are identified and/or existing lenders are willing to increase their current commitments. We may allocate up to $250.0 million of available borrowings under the 2013 Revolving Credit Facility to letters of credit for our account or for the account of any of our subsidiaries. The 2013 Credit Agreement is guaranteed by most of our direct and indirect subsidiaries and are secured by substantially all of our assets and most of the assets of most of our subsidiaries. The 2013 Revolving Credit Facility and the Term Loan contain various covenants providing for, among other things, maintenance of certain financial ratios and certain limitations on payment of dividends, common stock repurchases, investments, acquisitions, indebtedness and capital expenditures. A commitment fee is payable on the average daily unused amount of the 2013 Revolving Credit Facility, which ranges from 0.20% to 0.30%, based on certain financial tests. The fee is 0.20% of the unused amount as of September 30, 2014. Borrowings under the 2013 Credit Agreement bear interest at (1) a rate which is the prime commercial lending rate announced by Bank of Montreal from time to time (3.25% at September 30, 2014) plus 0.25% to 0.75%, based on certain financial tests or (2) United States dollar LIBOR (0.15% at September 30, 2014) plus 1.25% to 1.75%, based on certain financial tests. The interest rate in effect at September 30, 2014 was 1.40%. Fees for letters of credit issued under the 2013 Revolving Credit Facility range from 1.25% to 1.75% of the respective face amounts of outstanding letters of credit and are computed based on certain financial tests. We capitalized approximately $3.0 million of debt issuance costs associated with the 2013 Credit Agreement. This amount is being amortized over the life of the agreement and is included as part of interest expense. We are required to make principal payments on the Term Loan in installments on the last day of March, June, September and December of each year, which commenced with the calendar quarter ended March 31, 2014, in the amount of $4.4 million, with a payment of all unpaid principal and interest due on November 25, 2018. As of September 30, 2014, the balance of the Term Loan was $336.9 million. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, we had approximately $97.2 million and $83.3 million of letters of credit outstanding, respectively. There were no borrowings outstanding under the 2013 Revolving Credit Facility as of September 30, 2014.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Fair Value Measurements
	We use a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy, which gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets, is comprised of the following three levels:
	Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities.
	Level 2 – Observable inputs, other than Level 1 inputs. Level 2 inputs would typically include quoted prices in markets that are not active or financial instruments for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.
	Level 3 – Prices or valuations that require inputs that are both significant to the measurement and unobservable.
	The following tables provide the assets and liabilities carried at fair value measured on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		Assets at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Asset Category	Level 1		Level 2	Level 3	Total
	Cash and cash equivalents (1)	$	437,446	—	—	$	437,446
	Restricted cash (2)	6,938		—	—	6,938
	Total	$	444,384	—	—	$	444,384
		Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Asset Category	Level 1		Level 2	Level 3	Total
	Cash and cash equivalents (1)	$	439,813	—	—	$	439,813
	Restricted cash (2)	6,934		—	—	6,934
	Total	$	446,747	—	—	$	446,747
	________
	-1	Cash and cash equivalents include money market funds with original maturity dates of three months or less, which are Level 1 assets. At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, we had $167.4 million and $147.7 million, respectively, in money market funds.
	-2	Restricted cash is classified as “Prepaid expenses and other” in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	We believe that the carrying values of our financial instruments, which include accounts receivable and other financing commitments, approximate their fair values due primarily to their short-term maturities and low risk of counterparty default. The carrying value of our debt associated with the 2013 Credit Agreement approximates its fair value due to the variable rate on such debt.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, our income tax provision on income from continuing operations was $24.0 million and $24.0 million, respectively, based on effective income tax rates, before discrete items and less amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests, of 37.6% and 39.5%, respectively. The actual income tax rates on income from continuing operations, less amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests, for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, inclusive of discrete items, were 34.5% and 44.7%, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, our income tax provision on income from continuing operations was $75.4 million and $60.6 million, respectively, based on effective income tax rates, before discrete items and less amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests, of 37.6% and 37.5%, respectively. The actual income tax rates on income from continuing operations, less amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests, for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, inclusive of discrete items, were 36.6% and 38.8%, respectively. The increase in the 2014 income tax provision was primarily due to increased income before income taxes. The decrease in the actual income tax rates on income from continuing operations was primarily due to a change in the mix of earnings among various jurisdictions and the quarterly variance in discrete items.
	As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits was $4.3 million and $3.1 million (of which $2.2 million and $1.7 million, if recognized, would favorably affect our effective income tax rate, respectively.)
	We report interest expense related to unrecognized income tax benefits in the income tax provision. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, we had approximately $0.3 million of accrued interest related to unrecognized income tax benefits included as a liability in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, less than $0.1 million and $0.2 million of interest expense was recognized, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, less than $0.1 million of interest income and $0.6 million of interest expense was recognized, respectively.
	It is possible that approximately $0.1 million of unrecognized income tax benefits at September 30, 2014, primarily relating to uncertain tax positions attributable to compensation related accruals, will become recognized income tax benefits in the next twelve months due to the expiration of applicable statutes of limitations.
	We file income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service and various state, local and foreign tax agencies. The Company is currently under examination by various taxing authorities for the years 2008 through 2013. During the first quarter of 2014, the Internal Revenue Service finalized its audit of our federal income tax returns for the years 2010 through 2011. We agreed to and paid an assessment, for an immaterial amount, proposed by the Internal Revenue Service pursuant to such audit.

Common_Stock

Common Stock	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]	'
Common Stock	'
	Common Stock
	As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, 65,570,324 and 66,896,518 shares of our common stock were outstanding, respectively.
	During the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, 66,126 and 28,493 shares of common stock, respectively, were issued primarily upon: (a) the exercise of stock options and (b) the purchase of common stock pursuant to our employee stock purchase plan. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, 628,850 and 243,690 shares of common stock, respectively, were issued primarily upon: (a) the exercise of stock options, (b) the satisfaction of required conditions under certain of our share-based compensation plans and (c) the purchase of common stock pursuant to our employee stock purchase plan.
	On September 26, 2011, our Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $100.0 million of its outstanding common stock. On December 5, 2013, our Board of Directors authorized us to repurchase up to an additional $100.0 million of our outstanding common stock. During 2014, we repurchased approximately 2.0 million shares of our common stock for approximately $84.6 million. Since the inception of the repurchase programs through September 30, 2014, we have repurchased 4.7 million shares of our common stock for approximately $162.1 million. As of September 30, 2014, there remained authorization for us to repurchase approximately $37.9 million of our shares. On October 23, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized us to repurchase up to an additional $250.0 million of our outstanding common stock. The repurchase programs do not obligate the Company to acquire any particular amount of common stock and may be suspended, recommenced or discontinued at any time or from time to time without prior notice. Acquisitions under our repurchase programs may be made from time to time to the extent permitted by securities laws and other legal requirements, including provisions in our credit agreement placing limitations on such repurchases. The repurchase programs have been and will be funded from our operations.

Retirement_Plans

Retirement Plans	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Retirement Plans	'
	Retirement Plans
	Our United Kingdom subsidiary has a defined benefit pension plan covering all eligible employees (the “UK Plan”); however, no individual joining the company after October 31, 2001 may participate in the plan. On May 31, 2010, we curtailed the future accrual of benefits for active employees under this plan.
	Components of Net Periodic Pension Cost
	The components of net periodic pension cost of the UK Plan for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
		For the three months ended September 30,						For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Interest cost	$	3,510		$	3,044		$	10,573		$	9,147
	Expected return on plan assets	(4,226		)	(3,549		)	(12,729		)	(10,664		)
	Amortization of unrecognized loss	508			633			1,530			1,902
	Net periodic pension (income) expense	$	(208	)	$	128		$	(626	)	$	385
	Employer Contributions
	For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, our United Kingdom subsidiary contributed approximately $4.6 million to its UK Plan. It anticipates contributing an additional $1.3 million during the remainder of 2014.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Commitments and Contingencies
	Government Contracts
	As a government contractor, we are subject to U.S. government audits and investigations relating to our operations, including claims for fines, penalties and compensatory and treble damages, and possible suspension or debarment from doing business with the government. Based on currently available information, we believe the outcome of ongoing government disputes and investigations will not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
	Legal Matters
	One of our subsidiaries was a subcontractor to a mechanical contractor ("Mechanical Contractor") on a construction project where an explosion occurred. An investigation of the matter could not determine who was responsible for the explosion. As a result of the explosion, lawsuits have been commenced against various parties, but, to date, no lawsuits have been commenced against our subsidiary with respect to personal injury or damage to property as a consequence of the explosion. However, the Mechanical Contractor has asserted claims, in the context of an arbitration proceeding against our subsidiary, alleging that our subsidiary is responsible for a portion of the damages for which the Mechanical Contractor may be liable as a result of: (a) losses asserted by the owner of the project and/or the owner's general contractor because of delays in completion of the project and damages to its property, (b) personal injury suffered by individuals as a result of the explosion and (c) the Mechanical Contractor's legal fees and associated management costs in defending against any and all such claims. In the most recent filing with the Arbitrator, the Mechanical Contractor has indicated that it intends to pursue claims against our subsidiary for alleged violations of the Connecticut and Massachusetts Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Acts in the ongoing arbitration proceeding. We believe, and have been advised by counsel, that we have a number of meritorious defenses to all such matters. We believe that the ultimate outcome of such matters will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity. Notwithstanding our assessment of the final impact of this matter, we are not able to estimate with any certainty the amount of loss, if any, which would be associated with an adverse resolution.
	One of our subsidiaries, USM, Inc. ("USM"), doing business in California provides, among other things, janitorial services to its customers by having those services performed by independent janitorial companies. USM and one of its customers, which owns retail stores (the “Customer”), are co-defendants in a federal class action lawsuit brought by employees of five of USM’s California janitorial contractors. The action was commenced on September 5, 2013 in a Superior Court of California and was removed by USM on November 22, 2013 to the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The employees allege in their complaint, among other things, that USM and the Customer violated a California statute that prohibits USM from entering into a contract with a janitorial contractor when it knows or should know that the contract does not include funds sufficient to allow the janitorial contractor to comply with all local, state and federal laws or regulations governing the labor or services to be provided. The employees have asserted that the amounts USM pays to its janitorial contractors are insufficient to allow those janitorial contractors to meet their obligations regarding, among other things, wages due for all hours their employees worked, minimum wages, overtime pay and meal and rest breaks. These employees seek to represent not only themselves, but also all other individuals who provided janitorial services at the Customer’s stores in California during the relevant four year time period. We do not believe USM or the Customer has violated the California statute or that the employees may bring the action as a class action on behalf of other employees of janitorial contractors with whom USM contracted for the provision of janitorial services to the Customer. However, if the pending lawsuit is certified as a class action and USM is found to have violated the California statute, USM might have to pay significant damages and might be subject to similar lawsuits regarding the provision of janitorial services to its other customers in California. The plaintiffs seek a declaratory judgment that USM has violated the California statute, monetary damages, including all unpaid wages and interest thereon, restitution for unpaid wages, and an award of attorney fees and costs.
	We are involved in several other proceedings in which damages and claims have been asserted against us. Other potential claims may exist that have not yet been asserted against us. We believe that we have a number of valid defenses to such proceedings and claims and intend to vigorously defend ourselves. We do not believe that any such matters will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity. Litigation is subject to many uncertainties and the outcome of litigation is not predictable with assurance. It is possible that some litigation matters for which reserves have not been established could be decided unfavorably to us, and that any such unfavorable decisions could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
	Restructuring expenses
	Restructuring expenses were $0.4 million and $0.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively. Restructuring expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2014 included $0.4 million of employee severance obligations. Restructuring expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 included $0.6 million of employee severance obligations and $0.2 million relating to the termination of leased facilities. Restructuring expenses were $0.6 million and $0.7 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively. Restructuring expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2013 included $0.5 million of employee severance obligations and $0.1 million relating to the termination of leased facilities. Restructuring expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 included $0.6 million of employee severance obligations and $0.1 million relating to the termination of leased facilities. As of September 30, 2014, the balance of these restructuring obligations yet to be paid was $0.2 million, the majority of which is expected to be paid in 2014. No material expenses in connection with restructuring from continuing operations are expected to be incurred during the remainder of 2014.
	The changes in restructuring activity by reportable segments during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
		United States			United States			United States			Corporate administration			Total
		electrical			mechanical			building
		construction			construction			services segment
		and facilities			and facilities
		services segment			services segment
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	53		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	53
	Charges	—			473			179			—			652
	Payments	(18		)	(129		)	(162		)	—			(309		)
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	35		$	344		$	17		$	—		$	396
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	30		$	164		$	—		$	—		$	194
	Charges	375			124			—			300			799
	Payments	(405		)	(114		)	—			(300		)	(819		)
	Balance at September 30, 2014	$	—		$	174		$	—		$	—		$	174
	A summary of restructuring expenses by reportable segments recognized for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was as follows (in thousands):
		United States			United States			United States			Corporate administration			Total
		electrical			mechanical			building
		construction			construction			services segment
		and facilities			and facilities
		services segment			services segment
	Severance	$	375		$	205		$	—		$	—		$	580
	Leased facilities	—			(81		)	—			300			219
	Total charges	$	375		$	124		$	—		$	300		$	799

Segment_Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	Segment Information
	We have the following reportable segments which provide services associated with the design, integration, installation, start-up, operation and maintenance of various systems: (a) United States electrical construction and facilities services (involving systems for electrical power transmission and distribution; premises electrical and lighting systems; low-voltage systems, such as fire alarm, security and process control; voice and data communication; roadway and transit lighting; and fiber optic lines); (b) United States mechanical construction and facilities services (involving systems for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration and clean-room process ventilation; fire protection; plumbing, process and high-purity piping; controls and filtration; water and wastewater treatment and central plant heating and cooling; cranes and rigging; millwrighting; and steel fabrication, erection and welding); (c) United States building services; (d) United States industrial services; and (e) United Kingdom building services. The “United States building services” and "United Kingdom building services" segments principally consists of those operations which provide a portfolio of services needed to support the operation and maintenance of customers’ facilities, including commercial and government site-based operations and maintenance; facility maintenance and services; outage services to utilities and industrial plants; military base operations support services; mobile maintenance and services; floor care and janitorial services; landscaping, lot sweeping and snow removal; facilities management; vendor management; call center services; installation and support for building systems; program development, management and maintenance for energy systems; technical consulting and diagnostic services; infrastructure and building projects for federal, state and local governmental agencies and bodies; small modification and retrofit projects; and retrofit projects to comply with clean air laws, which services are not generally related to customers' construction programs. The segment "United States industrial services" principally consists of those operations which provide industrial maintenance and services, mainly for refineries and petrochemical plants, including on-site repairs, maintenance and service of heat exchangers, towers, vessels and piping; design, manufacturing, repair and hydro blast cleaning of shell and tube heat exchangers and related equipment; refinery turnaround planning and engineering services; specialty welding services; overhaul and maintenance of critical process units in refineries and petrochemical plants; and specialty technical services for refineries and petrochemical plants.
	The following tables present information about industry segments and geographic areas for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		For the three months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Revenues from unrelated entities:
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	314,666		$	340,529
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	565,227			616,403
	United States building services	427,564			457,777
	United States industrial services	172,452			110,879
	Total United States operations	1,479,909			1,525,588
	United Kingdom building services	86,802			79,727
	Total worldwide operations	$	1,566,711		$	1,605,315
	Total revenues:
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	316,409		$	347,488
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	569,794			629,481
	United States building services	438,864			471,576
	United States industrial services	172,608			111,212
	Less intersegment revenues	(17,766		)	(34,169		)
	Total United States operations	1,479,909			1,525,588
	United Kingdom building services	86,802			79,727
	Total worldwide operations	$	1,566,711		$	1,605,315
		For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Revenues from unrelated entities:
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	958,295		$	984,443
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	1,616,794			1,741,483
	United States building services	1,293,750			1,361,392
	United States industrial services	581,642			335,358
	Total United States operations	4,450,481			4,422,676
	United Kingdom building services	259,688			261,572
	Total worldwide operations	$	4,710,169		$	4,684,248
	Total revenues:
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	971,361		$	1,000,598
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	1,632,511			1,780,112
	United States building services	1,324,816			1,395,607
	United States industrial services	582,426			337,282
	Less intersegment revenues	(60,633		)	(90,923		)
	Total United States operations	4,450,481			4,422,676
	United Kingdom building services	259,688			261,572
	Total worldwide operations	$	4,710,169		$	4,684,248
		For the three months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Operating income (loss):
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	20,666		$	23,971
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	30,206			27,421
	United States building services	19,388			23,285
	United States industrial services	7,385			308
	Total United States operations	77,645			74,985
	United Kingdom building services	3,082			3,192
	Corporate administration	(18,481		)	(19,532		)
	Restructuring expenses	(398		)	(601		)
	Gain on sale of building	11,749			—
	Total worldwide operations	73,597			58,044
	Other corporate items:
	Interest expense	(2,397		)	(2,351		)
	Interest income	186			234
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes	$	71,386		$	55,927
		For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Operating income (loss):
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	67,162		$	68,147
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	78,052			56,809
United States building services	53,606			52,928
United States industrial services	43,155			26,320
Total United States operations	241,975			204,204
United Kingdom building services	12,647			11,845
Corporate administration	(50,192		)	(50,953		)
Restructuring expenses	(799		)	(652		)
Gain on sale of building	11,749			—
Total worldwide operations	215,380			164,444
Other corporate items:
Interest expense	(6,887		)	(5,978		)
Interest income	641			862
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	$	209,134		$	159,328
	September 30,			December 31,
	2014			2013
Total assets:
United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	333,416		$	329,742
United States mechanical construction and facilities services	805,382			795,256
United States building services	749,382			756,785
United States industrial services	958,856			940,916
Total United States operations	2,847,036			2,822,699
United Kingdom building services	135,728			160,828
Corporate administration	451,903			482,388
Total worldwide operations	$	3,434,667		$	3,465,915
Our United Kingdom building services segment recognized income of $4.8 million during the second quarter of 2014, which has been recorded as a reduction of "Cost of sales" in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, as a result of a reduction in the estimate of certain accrued contract costs that were no longer expected to be incurred within its building services operations. Our corporate administration operating loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was reduced by the receipt of an insurance recovery of approximately $2.6 million that was received in January 2013 associated with a previously disposed of operation, which is classified as a component of "Cost of sales" in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Policy

Fair Value Measurements (Policy)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	We use a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy, which gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets, is comprised of the following three levels:
	Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities.
	Level 2 – Observable inputs, other than Level 1 inputs. Level 2 inputs would typically include quoted prices in markets that are not active or financial instruments for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.
	Level 3 – Prices or valuations that require inputs that are both significant to the measurement and unobservable.

Disposition_of_Assets_Tables

Disposition of Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'
Components Of The Results of Discontinued Operations For The Construction Operations of the United Kingdom Segment	'
	The results of discontinued operations are as follows (in thousands):
		For the three months ended September 30,							For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Revenues	$	3,166			$	23,752		$	17,149		$	69,973
	Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes	$	(611	)		$	(3,010	)	$	(4,087	)	$	(17,621	)
	Diluted loss per share from discontinued operation	$	(0.01	)		$	(0.04	)	$	(0.06	)	$	(0.26	)
	Included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are the following major classes of assets and liabilities associated with the discontinued operation (in thousands):
		September 30,			December 31,
		2014			2013
	Assets of discontinued operation:
	Current assets	$	10,927		$	26,630
	Non-current assets	$	359		$	833
	Liabilities of discontinued operation:
	Current liabilities	$	15,555		$	41,024
	Non-current liabilities	$	140		$	513

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Calculation Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Common Share	'
	The following tables summarize our calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Common Share (“EPS”) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands, except share and per share data):
		For the three months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	45,635		$	29,700
	Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes	(611		)	(3,010		)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	45,024		$	26,690
	Denominator:
	Weighted average shares outstanding used to compute basic earnings (loss) per common share	66,714,641			67,174,848
	Effect of dilutive securities—Share-based awards	702,906			988,853
	Shares used to compute diluted earnings (loss) per common share	67,417,547			68,163,701
	Basic earnings (loss) per common share:
	From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	0.68		$	0.44
	From discontinued operation	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.04	)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	0.67		$	0.4
	Diluted earnings (loss) per common share:
	From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	0.68		$	0.43
	From discontinued operation	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.04	)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	0.67		$	0.39
		For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc.	$	130,285		$	95,492
	Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes	(4,087		)	(17,621		)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	126,198		$	77,871
	Denominator:
	Weighted average shares outstanding used to compute basic earnings (loss) per common share	67,062,732			67,127,149
	Effect of dilutive securities—Share-based awards	739,874			992,591
	Shares used to compute diluted earnings (loss) per common share	67,802,606			68,119,740
	Basic earnings (loss) per common share:
	From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	1.94		$	1.42
	From discontinued operation	(0.06		)	(0.26		)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	1.88		$	1.16
	Diluted earnings (loss) per common share:
	From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	1.92		$	1.4
	From discontinued operation	(0.06		)	(0.26		)
	Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders	$	1.86		$	1.14

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Inventories in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets consisted of the following amounts (in thousands):
		September 30,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Raw materials and construction materials	$	35,618	$	32,795
	Work in process	31,555		19,328
		$	67,173	$	52,123

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Debt	'
	Debt in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets consisted of the following amounts (in thousands):
		September 30,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Term Loan	$	336,875	$	350,000
	Capitalized lease obligations	3,423		4,652
	Other	62		11
		340,360		354,663
	Less: current maturities	19,138		19,332
		$	321,222	$	335,331

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Assets And Liabilities Carried At Fair Value Measured On A Recurring Basis	'
	The following tables provide the assets and liabilities carried at fair value measured on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		Assets at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Asset Category	Level 1		Level 2	Level 3	Total
	Cash and cash equivalents (1)	$	437,446	—	—	$	437,446
	Restricted cash (2)	6,938		—	—	6,938
	Total	$	444,384	—	—	$	444,384
		Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Asset Category	Level 1		Level 2	Level 3	Total
	Cash and cash equivalents (1)	$	439,813	—	—	$	439,813
	Restricted cash (2)	6,934		—	—	6,934
	Total	$	446,747	—	—	$	446,747
	________
	-1	Cash and cash equivalents include money market funds with original maturity dates of three months or less, which are Level 1 assets. At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, we had $167.4 million and $147.7 million, respectively, in money market funds.
	-2	Restricted cash is classified as “Prepaid expenses and other” in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Retirement_Plans_Tables

Retirement Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Components Of Net Periodic Pension Cost	'
	The components of net periodic pension cost of the UK Plan for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
		For the three months ended September 30,						For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Interest cost	$	3,510		$	3,044		$	10,573		$	9,147
	Expected return on plan assets	(4,226		)	(3,549		)	(12,729		)	(10,664		)
	Amortization of unrecognized loss	508			633			1,530			1,902
	Net periodic pension (income) expense	$	(208	)	$	128		$	(626	)	$	385

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies Restructuring and Related Activities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block]	'
	The changes in restructuring activity by reportable segments during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
		United States			United States			United States			Corporate administration			Total
		electrical			mechanical			building
		construction			construction			services segment
		and facilities			and facilities
		services segment			services segment
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	53		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	53
	Charges	—			473			179			—			652
	Payments	(18		)	(129		)	(162		)	—			(309		)
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	35		$	344		$	17		$	—		$	396
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	30		$	164		$	—		$	—		$	194
	Charges	375			124			—			300			799
	Payments	(405		)	(114		)	—			(300		)	(819		)
	Balance at September 30, 2014	$	—		$	174		$	—		$	—		$	174
Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block]	'
	A summary of restructuring expenses by reportable segments recognized for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was as follows (in thousands):
		United States			United States			United States			Corporate administration			Total
		electrical			mechanical			building
		construction			construction			services segment
		and facilities			and facilities
		services segment			services segment
	Severance	$	375		$	205		$	—		$	—		$	580
	Leased facilities	—			(81		)	—			300			219
	Total charges	$	375		$	124		$	—		$	300		$	799

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Information About Industry Segments And Geographic Areas	'
	The following tables present information about industry segments and geographic areas for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		For the three months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Revenues from unrelated entities:
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	314,666		$	340,529
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	565,227			616,403
	United States building services	427,564			457,777
	United States industrial services	172,452			110,879
	Total United States operations	1,479,909			1,525,588
	United Kingdom building services	86,802			79,727
	Total worldwide operations	$	1,566,711		$	1,605,315
	Total revenues:
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	316,409		$	347,488
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	569,794			629,481
	United States building services	438,864			471,576
	United States industrial services	172,608			111,212
	Less intersegment revenues	(17,766		)	(34,169		)
	Total United States operations	1,479,909			1,525,588
	United Kingdom building services	86,802			79,727
	Total worldwide operations	$	1,566,711		$	1,605,315
		For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Revenues from unrelated entities:
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	958,295		$	984,443
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	1,616,794			1,741,483
	United States building services	1,293,750			1,361,392
	United States industrial services	581,642			335,358
	Total United States operations	4,450,481			4,422,676
	United Kingdom building services	259,688			261,572
	Total worldwide operations	$	4,710,169		$	4,684,248
	Total revenues:
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	971,361		$	1,000,598
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	1,632,511			1,780,112
	United States building services	1,324,816			1,395,607
	United States industrial services	582,426			337,282
	Less intersegment revenues	(60,633		)	(90,923		)
	Total United States operations	4,450,481			4,422,676
	United Kingdom building services	259,688			261,572
	Total worldwide operations	$	4,710,169		$	4,684,248
		For the three months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Operating income (loss):
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	20,666		$	23,971
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	30,206			27,421
	United States building services	19,388			23,285
	United States industrial services	7,385			308
	Total United States operations	77,645			74,985
	United Kingdom building services	3,082			3,192
	Corporate administration	(18,481		)	(19,532		)
	Restructuring expenses	(398		)	(601		)
	Gain on sale of building	11,749			—
	Total worldwide operations	73,597			58,044
	Other corporate items:
	Interest expense	(2,397		)	(2,351		)
	Interest income	186			234
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes	$	71,386		$	55,927
		For the nine months ended September 30,
		2014			2013
	Operating income (loss):
	United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	67,162		$	68,147
	United States mechanical construction and facilities services	78,052			56,809
	United States building services	53,606			52,928
	United States industrial services	43,155			26,320
Total United States operations	241,975			204,204
United Kingdom building services	12,647			11,845
Corporate administration	(50,192		)	(50,953		)
Restructuring expenses	(799		)	(652		)
Gain on sale of building	11,749			—
Total worldwide operations	215,380			164,444
Other corporate items:
Interest expense	(6,887		)	(5,978		)
Interest income	641			862
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	$	209,134		$	159,328
	September 30,			December 31,
	2014			2013
Total assets:
United States electrical construction and facilities services	$	333,416		$	329,742
United States mechanical construction and facilities services	805,382			795,256
United States building services	749,382			756,785
United States industrial services	958,856			940,916
Total United States operations	2,847,036			2,822,699
United Kingdom building services	135,728			160,828
Corporate administration	451,903			482,388
Total worldwide operations	$	3,434,667		$	3,465,915

Acquisitions_Of_Businesses_Det

Acquisitions Of Businesses (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Dec. 02, 2013	Jul. 29, 2013	31-May-13	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
	Company	Company	Company
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Business acquisition date	2-Dec-13	'	31-May-13	'	'	'	'	'
Proceeds from revolving credit facility	'	'	'	'	'	$0	$250,000,000	'
Goodwill	'	'	'	834,102,000	'	834,102,000	'	834,825,000
Number of businesses acquired	1	1	1	'	'	'	'	'
Non-cash income from contingent consideration arrangements	'	'	'	0	3,100,000	200,000	6,000,000	'
RepconStrickland [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Business acquisition date	'	29-Jul-13	'	'	'	'	'	'
Business acquisition, percentage of voting interests acquired	'	100.00%	'	'	'	'	'	'
Purchase price	'	463,600,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Proceeds from revolving credit facility	'	250,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Working capital acquired	'	35,500,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Other net liabilities acquired	'	67,100,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Goodwill	'	267,800,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Identifiable intangible assets	'	227,400,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Acquired goodwill, tax deductible amount	'	49,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'

Disposition_of_Assets_Narrativ

Disposition of Assets (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	'	'	$1,108	$0	'	'
Loss on sale of subsidiary	'	'	608	0	'	'
Gain on sale of building	11,749	0	11,749	0	'	'
Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes	-611	-3,010	-4,087	-17,621	'	'
From discontinued operation (in US dollars per share)	($0.01)	($0.04)	($0.06)	($0.26)	'	'
Restructuring reserve	174	396	174	396	194	53
United Kingdom Construction [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	3,166	23,752	17,149	69,973	'	'
Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes	-611	-3,010	-4,087	-17,621	'	'
From discontinued operation (in US dollars per share)	($0.01)	($0.04)	($0.06)	($0.26)	'	'
Restructuring reserve	2,200	'	2,200	'	'	'
Assets of discontinued operation:	'	'	'	'	'	'
Current assets	10,927	'	10,927	'	26,630	'
Non-current assets	359	'	359	'	833	'
Liabilities of discontinued operation:	'	'	'	'	'	'
Current liabilities	15,555	'	15,555	'	41,024	'
Non-current liabilities	140	'	140	'	513	'
United States Building Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	'	'	1,100	'	'	'
Loss on sale of subsidiary	'	'	$600	'	'	'

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Numerator	'	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders (in US dollars)	$45,635	$29,700	$130,285	$95,492
Loss from discontinued operation, net of income taxes (in US dollars)	-611	-3,010	-4,087	-17,621
Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. (in US dollars)	$45,024	$26,690	$126,198	$77,871
Denominator	'	'	'	'
Weighted average shares outstanding used to compute basic earnings (loss) per common share (in shares)	66,714,641	67,174,848	67,062,732	67,127,149
Effect of dilutive securities-Share-based awards (in shares)	702,906	988,853	739,874	992,591
Shares used to compute diluted earnings (loss) per common share (in shares)	67,417,547	68,163,701	67,802,606	68,119,740
Basic earnings (loss) per common share:	'	'	'	'
From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders (in US dollars per share)	$0.68	$0.44	$1.94	$1.42
From discontinued operation (in US dollars per share)	($0.01)	($0.04)	($0.06)	($0.26)
Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders (in US dollars per share)	$0.67	$0.40	$1.88	$1.16
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share:	'	'	'	'
From continuing operations attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders (in US dollars per share)	$0.68	$0.43	$1.92	$1.40
From discontinued operation (in US dollars per share)	($0.01)	($0.04)	($0.06)	($0.26)
Net income attributable to EMCOR Group, Inc. common stockholders (in US dollars per share)	$0.67	$0.39	$1.86	$1.14
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Anti-dilutive stock options excluded from calculation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)	0	0	0	0

Inventories_Inventories_Detail

Inventories (Inventories) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Raw materials and construction materials	$35,618	$32,795
Work in process	31,555	19,328
Inventories	$67,173	$52,123

Debt_Narrative_Details

Debt (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

2011 Credit Agreement

2013 Credit Agreement

2013 Credit Agreement

2013 Revolving Credit Facility

2013 Revolving Credit Facility

2013 Term Loan

2013 Term Loan

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Prime Rate [Member]

Prime Rate [Member]

Prime Rate [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

2013 Revolving Credit Facility

2013 Revolving Credit Facility

2013 Credit Agreement

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

2013 Credit Agreement

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

2013 Credit Agreement

2013 Credit Agreement

2013 Credit Agreement

2013 Credit Agreement

Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of credit facility maximum borrowing capacity (in US dollars)

'

'

$750,000,000

'

'

'

$750,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Term Loan (in US dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

336,875,000

350,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expiration date of revolving credit facility

'

'

'

25-Nov-18

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Increase in borrowing capacity (in US dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,050,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Letters of credit maximum borrowing capacity (in US dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

250,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Commitment fee percentage of unused amount

'

'

'

'

'

0.20%

'

'

'

0.20%

0.30%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest rate description

'Borrowings under the 2013 Credit Agreement bear interest at (1) a rate which is the prime commercial lending rate announced by Bank of Montreal from time to time (3.25% at September 30, 2014) plus 0.25% to 0.75%, based on certain financial tests or (2) United States dollar LIBOR (0.15% at September 30, 2014) plus 1.25% to 1.75%, based on certain financial tests. The interest rate in effect at September 30, 2014 was 1.40%. Letter of credit fees issued under the 2013 Revolving Credit Facility range from 1.25% to 1.75% of the respective face amounts of outstanding letters of credit and are computed based on certain financial tests.

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Commercial lending rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.25%

'

'

0.15%

'

'

Basis spread on variable rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.25%

0.75%

'

1.25%

1.75%

Interest rate

'

'

'

1.40%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Letter of credit fees

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.25%

1.75%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt issuance costs, capitalized (in US dollars)

'

'

'

'

3,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Periodic principal payment on term loan (in US dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,375,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Letters of credit outstanding (in US dollars)

97,200,000

83,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Borrowings under revolving credit facility (in US dollars)

$0

$0

'

'

'

$0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt_Schedule_Of_Debt_Details

Debt (Schedule Of Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Capitalized lease obligations	$3,423	$4,652
Other	62	11
Total debt	340,360	354,663
Less: current maturities	19,138	19,332
Total long-term debt	321,222	335,331
2013 Term Loan	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Term Loan	$336,875	$350,000

Fair_Value_Measurements_Schedu

Fair Value Measurements (Schedule Of Assets And Liabilities Carried At Fair Value Measured On A Recurring Basis) (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	$437,446	[1]	$439,813	[1]
Restricted cash	6,938	[2]	6,934	[2]
Total	444,384		446,747
Level 1 [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	437,446	[1]	439,813	[1]
Restricted cash	6,938	[2]	6,934	[2]
Total	444,384		446,747
Level 2 [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	0	[1]	0	[1]
Restricted cash	0	[2]	0	[2]
Total	0		0
Level 3 [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	0	[1]	0	[1]
Restricted cash	0	[2]	0	[2]
Total	0		0
Money Market Funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	$167,400		$147,700
[1]	Cash and cash equivalents include money market funds with original maturity dates of three months or less, which are Level 1 assets. At SeptemberB 30, 2014 and DecemberB 31, 2013, we had $167.4 million and $147.7 million, respectively, in money market funds.
[2]	Restricted cash is classified as bPrepaid expenses and otherb in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Income tax provision	$23,998,000	$24,024,000	$75,428,000	$60,622,000	'
Effective income tax rates	37.60%	39.50%	37.60%	37.50%	'
Actual income tax rates	34.50%	44.70%	36.60%	38.80%	'
Unrecognized income tax benefits	4,300,000	'	4,300,000	'	3,100,000
Unrecognized income tax benefits, if recognized, that would favorably affect the effective income tax rate	2,200,000	'	2,200,000	'	1,700,000
Accrued interest expense related to unrecognized income tax benefits	300,000	'	300,000	'	300,000
Interest expense related to unrecognized income tax benefits	100,000	200,000	'	600,000	'
Interest income related to unrecognized income tax benefits	'	'	100,000	'	'
Unrecognized income tax benefits to be recognized in the next twelve months	$100,000	'	$100,000	'	'

Common_Stock_Details

Common Stock (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		36 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 26, 2011	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 05, 2013	Oct. 23, 2014
							RepurchaseProgramSep262011	RepurchaseProgramDec052013	RepurchaseProgramDec052013	Subsequent Event [Member]
										RepurchaseProgramOct232014
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Common stock, outstanding	65,570,324	'	65,570,324	'	65,570,324	66,896,518	'	'	'	'
Common stock, issued	66,126	28,493	628,850	243,690	'	'	'	'	'	'
Stock repurchase, authorized amount (in US dollars)	'	'	'	'	'	'	$100,000,000	'	$100,000,000	$250,000,000
Number of shares repurchased	'	'	2,000,000	'	4,700,000	'	'	'	'	'
Stock repurchased (in US dollars)	'	'	84,565,000	4,998,000	162,100,000	'	'	'	'	'
Remaining authorized repurchase amount (in US dollars)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$37,900,000	'	'

Retirement_Plans_Narrative_Det

Retirement Plans (Narrative) (Details) (United Kingdom Subsidiary [Member], Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member], USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
United Kingdom Subsidiary [Member] | Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Contribution of U.K. subsidiary to its defined benefit pension plan	$4.60
Anticipated additional contribution	$1.30

Retirement_Plans_Components_Of

Retirement Plans (Components Of Net Periodic Pension Benefit Cost) (Details) (United Kingdom Subsidiary [Member], Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
United Kingdom Subsidiary [Member] | Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Interest cost	$3,510	$3,044	$10,573	$9,147
Expected return on plan assets	-4,226	-3,549	-12,729	-10,664
Amortization of unrecognized loss	508	633	1,530	1,902
Net periodic pension (income) expense	($208)	$128	($626)	$385

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies Narrative (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	$398	$601	$799	$652	'	'
Restructuring reserve	174	396	174	396	194	53
Employee Severance [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	400	500	580	600	'	'
Facility Closing [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	$100	$219	$100	'	'

Schedule_of_Restructuring_Acti

Schedule of Restructuring Activities (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring reserve	$174	$396	$174	$396	$194	$53
Restructuring expenses	398	601	799	652	'	'
Payments for restructuring	'	'	-819	-309	'	'
Employee Severance [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	400	500	580	600	'	'
Facility Closing [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	100	219	100	'	'
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring reserve	0	0	0	0	0	0
Restructuring expenses	'	'	300	0	'	'
Payments for restructuring	'	'	-300	0	'	'
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] | Employee Severance [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	0	'	'	'
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] | Facility Closing [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	300	'	'	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | United States Electrical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring reserve	0	35	0	35	30	53
Restructuring expenses	'	'	375	0	'	'
Payments for restructuring	'	'	-405	-18	'	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | United States Mechanical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring reserve	174	344	174	344	164	0
Restructuring expenses	'	'	124	473	'	'
Payments for restructuring	'	'	-114	-129	'	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | United States Building Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring reserve	0	17	0	17	0	0
Restructuring expenses	'	'	0	179	'	'
Payments for restructuring	'	'	0	-162	'	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | Employee Severance [Member] | United States Electrical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	375	'	'	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | Employee Severance [Member] | United States Mechanical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	205	'	'	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | Employee Severance [Member] | United States Building Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	0	'	'	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | Facility Closing [Member] | United States Electrical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	0	'	'	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | Facility Closing [Member] | United States Mechanical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	-81	'	'	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | Facility Closing [Member] | United States Building Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	$0	'	'	'

Segment_Information_Informatio

Segment Information (Information About Industry Segments And Geographic Areas) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues from unrelated entities	$1,566,711,000	$1,605,315,000	$4,710,169,000	$4,684,248,000	'
Total revenues	1,566,711,000	1,605,315,000	4,710,169,000	4,684,248,000	'
Operating income (loss)	73,597,000	58,044,000	215,380,000	164,444,000	'
Restructuring expenses	-398,000	-601,000	-799,000	-652,000	'
Gain on sale of building	11,749,000	0	11,749,000	0	'
Interest expense	-2,397,000	-2,351,000	-6,887,000	-5,978,000	'
Interest income	186,000	234,000	641,000	862,000	'
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	71,386,000	55,927,000	209,134,000	159,328,000	'
Total assets	3,434,667,000	'	3,434,667,000	'	3,465,915,000
Insurance recoveries	'	'	'	2,600,000	'
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	-17,766,000	-34,169,000	-60,633,000	-90,923,000	'
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Operating income (loss)	-18,481,000	-19,532,000	-50,192,000	-50,953,000	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	-300,000	0	'
Total assets	451,903,000	'	451,903,000	'	482,388,000
UNITED STATES	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues from unrelated entities	1,479,909,000	1,525,588,000	4,450,481,000	4,422,676,000	'
Total revenues	1,479,909,000	1,525,588,000	4,450,481,000	4,422,676,000	'
Operating income (loss)	77,645,000	74,985,000	241,975,000	204,204,000	'
Total assets	2,847,036,000	'	2,847,036,000	'	2,822,699,000
UNITED STATES | United States Electrical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues from unrelated entities	314,666,000	340,529,000	958,295,000	984,443,000	'
UNITED STATES | United States Mechanical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues from unrelated entities	565,227,000	616,403,000	1,616,794,000	1,741,483,000	'
UNITED STATES | United States Building Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues from unrelated entities	427,564,000	457,777,000	1,293,750,000	1,361,392,000	'
UNITED STATES | United States Industrial Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues from unrelated entities	172,452,000	110,879,000	581,642,000	335,358,000	'
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | United States Electrical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	316,409,000	347,488,000	971,361,000	1,000,598,000	'
Operating income (loss)	20,666,000	23,971,000	67,162,000	68,147,000	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	-375,000	0	'
Total assets	333,416,000	'	333,416,000	'	329,742,000
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | United States Mechanical Construction And Facilities Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	569,794,000	629,481,000	1,632,511,000	1,780,112,000	'
Operating income (loss)	30,206,000	27,421,000	78,052,000	56,809,000	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	-124,000	-473,000	'
Total assets	805,382,000	'	805,382,000	'	795,256,000
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | United States Building Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	438,864,000	471,576,000	1,324,816,000	1,395,607,000	'
Operating income (loss)	19,388,000	23,285,000	53,606,000	52,928,000	'
Restructuring expenses	'	'	0	-179,000	'
Total assets	749,382,000	'	749,382,000	'	756,785,000
UNITED STATES | Operating Segments [Member] | United States Industrial Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	172,608,000	111,212,000	582,426,000	337,282,000	'
Operating income (loss)	7,385,000	308,000	43,155,000	26,320,000	'
Total assets	958,856,000	'	958,856,000	'	940,916,000
UNITED KINGDOM | United Kingdom Building Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues from unrelated entities	86,802,000	79,727,000	259,688,000	261,572,000	'
UNITED KINGDOM | Operating Segments [Member] | United Kingdom Building Services [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	86,802,000	79,727,000	259,688,000	261,572,000	'
Operating income (loss)	3,082,000	3,192,000	12,647,000	11,845,000	'
Total assets	135,728,000	'	135,728,000	'	160,828,000
United Kingdom Subsidiary [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Income from reduction in estimate of certain accrued contract costs	$0	'	$4,800,000	'	'