How Much Does an Electrician Cost? [2024]

If you're looking at any project that involves electrical work – whether it's installing a new light fitting or ceiling fan or building an extension – you'll need a licensed electrician. Not only is it the law, it's also vital for your own safety and those around you.

So how much does an electrician cost? That depends on the type and size of the job, among other factors. This article will give you an idea of what electricians do, how they can help and how much they charge.

• How much does an electrician cost per hour?
• How much do electricians cost in different states?
• How much do electricians charge for different jobs?
• Planning your home's electrical system
• Do I need a licensed electrician?
• Hiring an electrician near me

The right lighting can help transform a home from drab to fab. © Builtex Design & Construction

How much does an electrician cost per hour?

For most jobs, electricians charge an hourly rate or a flat service/call-out fee. Expect them to charge in the region of:

• $80 - $130 service fee
• $80 - $100 per hour

The service fee will often cover the first 30 minutes they're working on your job, with the hourly rate calculated in 15-minute increments. Electricians who don't charge a call-out fee may charge extra for their first hour's work.

Factors that determine the final cost of electrician services include:

• your location
• the complexity of the job
• ease of access to the work site

For example, installing wiring in a new build home will typically be quicker than in an older home, as it's likely to have better access to all the necessary points, such as the ceiling cavity.

How much do electricians cost in different states?

Local rates for electricians vary, depending on your state and whether you live in the inner city or suburbs. Average hourly rates for electricians are approximately:

• Australia Capital Territory: $95
• New South Wales: $105
• Queensland: $100
• South Australia: $95
• Western Australia: $95

• Victoria: $105

The best way to get a sense of market rates in your area is to get quotes from at least 3 local electricians near you.

Electricians are required for renovation projects, including kitchens. © Luke Interiors

How much do electricians charge for different jobs?

Sparkies often have set rates for specific tasks and jobs. Here are some common projects and average prices to give you a ballpark idea of what you may be charged.

Installing a power point

The average cost to install a power point is between $140 and $180, including labour and materials. This will usually cost more if the power point needs to be installed in a brick wall.

Installing a wired smoke alarm

It costs around $150 to have a smoke alarm installed and connected to the mains, though this figure could be higher if access is difficult and the job takes longer.

Installing lights

Electricians can install all types of lighting and can recommend the best lighting solutions for different spaces. Expect to pay around:

• $55 - $70 to install a new downlight
• $60 - $80 per point for high-quality LED lighting
• $75 - $90 to install an outdoor light

Installing wiring for renovations

Whatever the size of your reno project, chances are you'll need an electrician to wire it up. For a kitchen renovation with 5 power points, expect to pay between $450 - $850.

Rewiring a home

If you live in an older home, it may have wiring that's unsafe or doesn't meet the latest standards. Hiring a licensed electrician to rewire your home can be an expensive project, costing anywhere from $800 - $8,000 depending on the size of the home and amount of work involved.

Installing ducted heating or cooling

Installing a whole-house ducted air conditioning and/or heating system can cost $3,000 - $4,000. Expect to pay more for a larger home or a more energy-efficient unit.

Installing a home automation system

Turning your home into a smart home will give you more control over access, security, lighting and more, but it doesn't come cheap. Electricians who specialise in home automation start from $2,000 for a small home to $50,000 - $100,000 for a large home.

Installing safety switches

Safety switches are an essential component of a home's electrical system, protecting you from power surges, faulty appliances and damaged wiring. The cost to install safety switches ranges from $90 - $250.

Installing electric vehicle (EV) chargers

EV's are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint as you travel, and electricians can help install charging stations for your brand new car. The cost to install EV charging stations range from $5,000 - $40,000. 

Upgrading switchboards

Older homes may need their switchboards upgraded after a number of years. Expect to pay between $500 - $1,200 for a new switchboard, depending on its size and capacity.

Planning your home's electrical system

If you're building a new home or renovating, this will involve substantial electrical work. To make sure electrician costs stay within your budget, take the time to consider these practicalities:

• What type of lighting does each room or space require? (General, task, ambient)
• The positioning and number of light switches, power points and data outlets in each room
• If you want or need the functionality of a home automation system
• If you require a home security system

Read more: 8 signs you need to hire an electrician

Do I need a licensed electrician?

Only a licensed electrician can legally carry out electrical work in a home or commercial building. This means that any electrical task more complex than changing a lightbulb or plugging in an appliance has to be done by someone appropriately qualified and licensed.

Each state and territory has slightly different regulations and classes for electricians, but anyone who carries out electrical work in your home must be a licence holder.

Licence classes define what type of electrical work an electrician can legally carry out. This should be clearly detailed on their physical licence, alongside their number, name, registered address and expiry date. Licences generally expire after 3 or 5 years.

If a trainee electrician is working in your home, they must be supervised by a fully licensed contractor. Electricians are also required to sign an electrical certificate validating that your job has been done to spec.

Hiring an electrician near me

When it comes time to hire a sparkie, you need to make sure they're right for your job. Some questions to ask local electricians include:

• Are you licensed?
• Are you insured to work in my home?
• Can you provide a written quote?
• Do you have references I can follow up?

Get a sense how much your project will cost by getting quotes from licensed electricians where you live. Request a detailed quote so you can see exactly where the money is going and avoid hidden costs.

 

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.