Wondering how much an electrician charges per hour in the UK? Whether you’re dealing with an urgent repair or planning a major installation, understanding the average costs for electricians can help you budget accurately. With rates varying across regions and depending on the job’s complexity, having a clear idea of what to expect is essential.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through electricians’ hourly rates in the UK, including rates for self-employed electricians and day rates for larger projects. Let’s explore the costs and factors that influence them in 2024!
Average Electricians Hourly Rate UK
In 2024, the average hourly rate for electricians across the UK ranges between £40 and £60. However, this can vary significantly based on factors like location, the complexity of the job, and the electrician’s experience.
For instance, electricians in London tend to charge higher rates due to the increased cost of living and demand for services in the capital. On the other hand, rates in rural areas or smaller towns may be closer to the lower end of the spectrum.
Regional Breakdown of electrician hourly rates:
- London: £50 to £80 per hour
- South East England: £45 to £70 per hour
- Northern England: £35 to £55 per hour
- Scotland: £40 to £60 per hour
- Wales: £40 to £55 per hour
Factors that can affect the hourly rate include:
- Experience and qualifications: Electricians with advanced certifications or years of experience can justify charging more.
- Job complexity: Simple jobs like installing a socket will be cheaper than rewiring an entire house.
Self-Employed Electricians Hourly Rate in the UK
Self-employed electricians operate slightly differently than those employed by larger firms. They set their own rates, often providing more flexibility but potentially higher costs due to the lack of large business overheads.
In 2024, the average hourly rate for a self-employed electrician in the UK is around £35 to £60. While these rates might be slightly lower than larger electrical firms, self-employed electricians can charge more for urgent or specialist work.
Key reasons self-employed rates vary:
- Flexibility: Self-employed electricians can often offer more flexible scheduling, but they may charge a premium for same-day service or out-of-hours calls.
- Operating costs: Without the backing of a more prominent firm, self-employed electricians must cover their own tools, transportation, and insurance costs, influencing their pricing.
Electrician Price List UK: Common Services and Costs
Electricians provide a wide range of services, from simple fixes to complex installations. Below is a breakdown of everyday electrical services and their average costs in 2024:
| Service | Average Hourly Rate/Cost |
| Installing a new plug socket | £50 – £100 |
| Replacing a light-fitting | £40 – £75 |
| Full house rewiring | £3,000 – £6,000 (Fixed rate) |
| Electrical safety inspection | £150 – £300 |
| Installing an electric shower | £250 – £400 |
| Consumer unit replacement | £400 – £700 |
These rates are guidelines and can vary based on the job’s complexity, the electrician’s expertise, and regional factors. Additionally, the size of the property and the quality of materials used can also affect the overall cost. Always be sure to get multiple quotes and clarify what is included in each before committing to a project.
Residential vs. Commercial Electricians: What’s the Cost Difference?
Residential and commercial electricians often have different pricing structures due to the nature of the work involved.
- Residential Electricians: These electricians typically handle tasks like rewiring houses, installing new lighting, and addressing electrical faults. Their rates are more straightforward, often charged on an hourly basis, with costs ranging from £40 to £60 per hour for standard services.
- Commercial Electricians: Commercial work, such as electrical installations in office buildings, factories, or retail stores, tends to be more complex and demanding. Commercial electricians may charge upwards of £60 to £90 per hour, depending on the project’s scope. They often require specialised knowledge, and there may be additional safety regulations that need to be met, contributing to higher costs.
Electrician Day Rates: When Is It Better to Pay Per Day?
For larger projects, hiring an electrician on a day rate can sometimes be more cost-effective than paying by the hour. Electricians typically offer day rates for extensive jobs, such as complete home rewiring or large commercial installations.
- Average day rate: £250 to £400
- When to opt for a day rate: If the job is expected to take more than 4-5 hours, it’s often cheaper to negotiate a day rate. This approach ensures you won’t be paying for unexpected delays or extra hours beyond the initial estimate.
However, day rates are often only available for non-emergency projects. Emergency call-outs, particularly outside of standard working hours, will usually revert to an hourly rate, which can be considerably higher.
Factors That Affect Electricians Hourly Rates in the UK
Electricians’ rates aren’t one-size-fits-all, and various factors can influence the cost:
- Location: Urban areas like London tend to have higher rates than rural regions due to increased demand and cost of living.
- Job Type: More complex jobs like rewiring a house or installing a new consumer unit will naturally cost more than basic electrical repairs.
- Experience: Electricians with specialised skills or many years of experience often charge higher rates.
- Certification: Electricians who hold advanced qualifications or are registered with certification bodies like NICEIC or NAPIT may charge more.
- Emergency Work: Urgent jobs, especially those done outside of regular working hours, often incur additional fees.
How to Find the Best Electrician Rates in the UK?
Finding the right electrician at a reasonable price is vital to ensuring the job is done safely and to a high standard. Here are some tips for finding competitive electrician rates in the UK:
- Get multiple quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Use comparison platforms like Checkatrade, MyBuilder, and HaMuch to compare prices and reviews from local electricians. It’s a good idea to request at least three quotes to ensure you’re getting a competitive price.
- Check qualifications: Always ensure your electrician is fully certified and insured. Look for electricians registered with recognised bodies like NICEIC, NAPIT, or Stroma, which ensure that the electrician meets national safety standards. Certification is essential for larger or more complex jobs, such as rewiring or installing a new consumer unit.
- Ask for fixed rates: For larger jobs, try to negotiate a fixed rate rather than paying per hour, which can help avoid unexpected costs. Fixed-rate quotes can provide peace of mind, as you won’t have to worry about the job taking longer than expected and driving up the price.
- Inquire about call-out charges: Some electricians may charge a call-out fee in addition to their hourly rate, especially for smaller jobs or emergency services. Make sure you ask about this fee upfront so you’re not caught off guard. For non-urgent work, it’s worth seeking electricians who do not charge call-out fees.
- Look for local electricians: Hiring a local electrician can help reduce travel costs, which are sometimes added to the final bill. Electricians who live nearby are also more likely to offer flexible scheduling and may be available for follow-up visits more easily.
By taking these steps, you’ll increase your chances of finding a professional electrician who offers quality service at a fair price.
Conclusion
Understanding electrician rates in the UK is essential for budgeting any electrical work, whether it’s a simple fix or a central installation. The average hourly rate for electricians ranges between £40 and £60, with self-employed electricians offering more flexible pricing.
Keep in mind factors like location, job complexity, and qualifications when comparing quotes, and always ensure your chosen electrician is certified and insured. Ready to hire an electrician? Use trusted platforms to compare rates and services to find the best match for your needs.
FAQs on Electricians Hourly Rates in the UK
How much does a self-employed electrician charge in the UK?
Self-employed electricians in the UK typically charge between £35 and £60 per hour. Rates can vary depending on the electrician’s experience, location, and the type of work required.
Are electricians more expensive in London compared to other regions?
Yes, electricians in London tend to charge higher rates, typically ranging from £50 to £80 per hour, due to the increased cost of living and demand for services in the capital.
What’s the difference between an electrician’s call-out charge and hourly rate?
A call-out charge is a flat fee that covers the cost of the electrician travelling to your location, while the hourly rate covers the time spent working on the job. Call-out charges are standard for emergency services.
Is there a standard rate for emergency electricians in the UK?
Emergency electricians often charge premium rates, with fees ranging from £75 to £120 per hour, especially for jobs outside regular working hours.
How can I ensure I get a fair quote from an electrician?
To get a fair quote, always request multiple quotes from different electricians, check their qualifications, and ensure the quote includes all potential additional charges like materials and VAT.
Do electricians charge extra for weekends or after hours?
Yes, electricians often charge a higher rate for a weekend or after-hours work. Emergency call-outs during these times can cost significantly more than standard rates.
Is it cheaper to hire an apprentice or trainee electrician?
Hiring an apprentice or trainee may be cheaper, but their work must be supervised by a fully qualified electrician to ensure it meets safety standards.