Is it expensive to hire an electrician in Sydney? It depends on the job, and that’s the honest answer. The cost of hiring an electrician in Sydney comes down to what needs doing, how hard it is to get to and what parts are involved. A quick fix and a rewire are very different jobs, so they cost very different amounts.
You want a fair price, and you don’t want to get ripped off. The best way to get both is to ask a licensed, insured electrician for a written fixed quote before any work starts.
You’ll see hourly rates advertised, but a rate on its own doesn’t tell you what you’ll actually pay. A low hourly rate can still add up if the job runs long, and it makes two businesses hard to compare. A fixed quote tells you the total up front, so there are no surprises when the invoice arrives. Going for the cheapest option isn’t always the best value when it’s your wiring.
Why the proper credentials matter
Unfortunately, there are people out there doing electrical work who aren’t licensed. In NSW, most electrical work has to be done by a licensed electrician, so always ask who is doing the job and check their licence with NSW Fair Trading. A licensed electrician has the training to work to the relevant safety standards.
Insurance matters too. It covers you if something goes wrong and there’s property damage or someone gets hurt. Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured operator to save a bit up front can cost you a lot more later.
What drives the cost of hiring an electrician in Sydney?
Every job is different, but these things move the price the most: the type of work, how much of it there is, how easy the wiring is to reach (roof spaces, brick walls and double-storey homes take more time), the age and condition of your existing wiring, the parts and fittings you choose, and how urgent the job is. Here’s how that plays out for some common jobs.
Installing additional power outlets or sockets
The price depends on how many points you need, whether the cable can be run through existing walls and roof space, and the type of outlet. Weatherproof outdoor points or ones with USB ports cost more than a standard double. Getting several done in one visit usually works out better than separate trips.
Data cables
Cost depends on how many data points you want, how far the cable has to run and whether you need standard network cabling or something faster. Better cable and fittings cost more up front, but they last and handle more.
Installing lighting
A simple light swap is a small job. Downlights take longer because each one needs a cut-out, wiring and a proper fitting, and the fittings themselves vary a lot in quality. Choose your fittings first, or ask your electrician what they recommend, and always get a quote before you book.
Electrical repairs
It depends on the fault and how easy it is to reach. Replacing a damaged power point is usually straightforward. Tracking down faulty cabling takes longer because the electrician has to find the problem first. Ceiling fan repairs depend on the fan and the wiring behind it. If you’ve got an older home, a look at the house wiring can show whether a quick repair is enough.
Emergency callouts
Save a reliable electrician’s number in your phone before something goes wrong. A callout covers getting to you and making things safe, and any extra repair work should be quoted before it starts. Ask what’s included when you call. If there’s fire, smoke or someone has been shocked, call 000 first. For urgent faults, see our emergency electrician service.
How to get a fair quote
Describe the problem clearly, and send photos if you can. Ask for the quote in writing, check that it covers labour and parts, and ask what could change the price (for example, finding old wiring behind a wall). If you’ve got a few small jobs, ask for them to be done in one visit.
Want a straight answer on price? Call Olympic Electrical on 02 8999 3691 or ask for a free quote.
