How Much Does an Electrician Cost in the UK?
Electrical work is one of the most tightly regulated trades in the UK — and one of the hardest to price-check without knowing the market. Whether you need a new socket, a consumer unit replacement, an EICR, or a full rewire, this guide covers what UK electricians typically charge and what factors push costs up or down.
Electrician hourly rates in the UK
UK electricians typically charge £50–£80/hour across most of England and Wales, rising to £70–£120/hour in London and the South East. Most domestic jobs are quoted as a fixed price rather than an hourly rate — so you know the total before you commit.
Call-out fees range from £50–£80 and cover travel and initial assessment. Many electricians waive the call-out fee if they complete the repair on the same visit.
Typical costs by job type
These are indicative 2025/26 market prices for common domestic electrical jobs:
- New single socket: £80–£150
- Replace consumer unit (fuse box): £500–£900
- Full rewire (3-bed house): £2,500–£5,000
- EV charger installation (OZEV-approved): £700–£1,200
- EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report): £150–£300
- Security / smart lighting: £200–£500
- Smoke alarm installation (per alarm): £60–£120
- Outdoor socket or garden lighting: £150–£350
Prices at the higher end reflect London rates, older properties, or jobs requiring additional materials.
EICR certificate cost
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a legal requirement for all private rental properties in England. The inspection and written report typically costs:
- 1-bed flat: £150–£200
- 2-bed house: £175–£250
- 3-bed house: £200–£300
- 4-bed house: £250–£400
- HMO: add £20–£40 per room
See the full guide: EICR Certificate Cost UK 2025.
Factors that affect electrician costs
- Age of property — pre-1970s wiring often needs upgrading before new circuits can be added.
- Access — loft work, floorboard lifting, or plasterboard removal takes longer.
- Parts and materials — confirm whether the quote includes components.
- Part P certification — registered electricians self-certify their work; unregistered tradespeople require a separate local authority inspection.
- Urgency — emergency call-outs attract a 50–100% premium over standard rates.
Does an electrician need to be registered?
Yes. For domestic electrical work in England and Wales, electricians should be registered with a government-approved competent person scheme: NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA, or SELECT (Scotland). Registered electricians self-certify their work under Part P. Unregistered tradespeople must notify the local authority and have work inspected separately — adding cost and delay.
All electricians on EzeAla Trades have their registration scheme and insurance verified before accepting jobs.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an electrician charge per hour in the UK?
£50–£80/hour outside London; £70–£120/hour in London. Most domestic jobs are fixed-price, not hourly.
How much does a consumer unit replacement cost?
£500–£900 including parts, labour, and Part P certification. Old wiring or extra circuits increase the cost.
What does a full rewire cost for a 3-bed house?
£2,500–£5,000 depending on property size, access, and existing wiring condition.
Is electrical work VAT-rated?
Most domestic electrical work is subject to 20% VAT. Some energy-saving measures (e.g., certain EV charger installations) may qualify for reduced rates — confirm with your electrician.
How do I find a verified electrician near me?
Use the EzeAla Trades finder to get fixed-price quotes from NICEIC/NAPIT-registered electricians in your area. All are verified before joining the platform.
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