How Much Does to Install a Bathroom Lighting Fixture? [2024]

Wondering what the cost is to install bathroom lighting fixtures? Read on to find out. 

Are you are trying to create a luxurious spa atmosphere then bathroom lighting can help set the right mood, without breaking the bank? The right lighting can also help you design a more eco-friendly bathroom, especially if you install low-energy LED lighting.  

For a ballpark idea of the cost to install a bathroom lighting fixture, a licensed electrician will generally charge a service fee in the region of $70-$130 and $70-$95 per hour thereafter. A few factors that can affect this price include:

• Understanding types of bathroom lighting fixtures
• Cost to install bathroom lighting fixture
• Who can install my bathroom lighting?
• Hiring the right sparkie

Understanding types of bathroom lighting fixtures

The first step to designing the ultimate bathroom is to think like a lighting designer. Breakdown your light sources into three groups – ambient/general, task-specific and accent lighting. 

Ambient lighting is your main light source, which generally needs to be enough to allow you to shower and brush your teeth easily. Besides this, you need task specific lighting fixtures for grooming (shaving, make up) and accent lighting (mirror lighting) for visual interest. You also need to think about your energy saving options, where to position your lighting, switches and power points. 

Once you’ve got that sorted, you can start thinking about the cost, and who is going to install it for you. Take a look on how much bathroom lighting ideas can cost. 

How much does it cost to install a bathroom lighting fixture in Australia?

Let’s take a closer look at what the actual charges could be for installing a lighting fixture in your bathroom, starting with what factors impact the final cost, specifically:

• Your materials and bathroom lighting you want installed
• The complexity of the job and how much work is involved
• How much the tradie charges for this type of project

A simple powerpoint installation is less time consuming and expensive than having new wiring installed for a new build or renovation. 

Like many tradies, sparkies often charge a flat service fee and an hourly rate. The service fee will often cover the first 30 minutes they are working on your job. Expect them to charge a service fee in the region of $70 to $130 and then $70 to $95 per hour, with the hourly rate calculated in 15 minute increments. 

Others may have a set rate for doing a specific job - such as installing a downlight or powerpoint. It often makes more sense to get a quote for your entire job, especially if it is a larger project. Remember to make sure you have it in writing, otherwise you could be setting yourself up for a nasty surprise when the final bill arrives. Here is an idea of what electricians charge for specific jobs:

• Installing a powerpoint: Sydney-based GLENCO Electrical Services charges in the region of $150 to install a new light fitting. This includes labour and materials.
• Installing LED lighting: RJ and AM Lawrence Electrical Contractors charges around $60-$75 per point for installing LED downlights, a popular retrofit option to replace halogen downlights.
• GTK Group would charge $450-$850 for the wiring and connection of a larger renovation project, assuming 5 power points are being installed in a room.

Just remember that these costs are only for guidance, and may well vary where you live.

Who can install my bathroom lighting?

You have to use a licensed electrician to work on any aspect of your lighting or electrics if you are doing a DIY bathroom renovation. 

There are no shortcuts around this, everything from a full blown reno to installing new downlights needs the services of your friendly local sparkie.

Hiring the right electrician

When it comes time to hire an electrician you need to make sure they are right for your job. Some questions to ask them 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?
• Can I see examples of your work?

We then advise you get at least three quotes from local electricians so you can make an informed choice.  You may also like to get some inspiration from our article, bathroom lighting ideas, for tips to make your space really shine!