Cost of Electrical Renovations in 2024

Electrical renovations are among the most crucial improvements you can make to your home. They not only enhance the safety of your living space but also contribute to greater efficiency in how your home operates. Many homeowners may not realize that outdated or inefficient wiring can lead to increased energy costs.

Moreover, old or outdated wiring can pose a risk to your home’s insurability. Homes with outdated systems, such as knob and tube wiring, are particularly vulnerable to fire hazards, and many insurance companies may refuse coverage if such wiring is detected. Beyond enhancing safety, electrical renovations can improve your home’s efficiency, allowing you to run more appliances and devices. This can simplify daily tasks and even boost your home’s resale value by making it more attractive to potential buyers.

Regardless of the type of renovation you’re considering, careful planning and budgeting are essential to maximize the benefits and efficiency of your new design. Let’s take a look at some of the typical costs associated with an electrical renovation. Be aware that emergency electrical work often comes with a higher price tag.

When selecting an electrical contractor, invest time in researching to ensure you hire the right professional for the job at a price that fits your budget. Obtain multiple estimates and provide detailed information to receive an accurate quote that reflects the scope of work required.

Electrician Cost Per Hour

When planning an electrical renovation, the first cost to consider is the hourly rate for your installation team. Some electrical upgrades are straightforward and can be completed within a few hours, while others may be more complex, especially if the work requires accessing areas behind the walls.

Electricians typically charge between $50 and $170 per hour, depending on their experience and expertise. It’s wise to obtain multiple quotes to ensure you’re hiring a skilled professional who can complete the job correctly. Keep in mind that the hourly rate doesn’t include the cost of materials, so be sure to budget for both labor and materials when preparing your electrical renovation plan.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Electrical Renovations

Several factors can influence the cost of your electrical renovation, so it's important to ensure you're working with contractors who have the expertise to meet your expectations.

Additionally, it's crucial to secure a great deal while using high-quality materials and technology that will enhance your home's efficiency.

Electrical Wiring Costs

Electrical wiring costs can vary significantly depending on the project. When planning your budget, consider the number of fixtures, receptacles, and switches involved. Experts recommend budgeting between $8 and $12 per linear foot of wire when rewiring your home. Additionally, account for the cost of receptacles, which typically range from $150 to $250 per unit.

To develop a more accurate budget, be sure to include all materials and labor involved in the wiring renovation. Depending on the size of your home and the extent of the installation and replacement work required, you can expect to pay between $3,500 and $8,500. For a complete home rewiring, costs can range from $2,500 to $14,000, which includes prep work such as removing and reinstalling drywall, replacing old wiring, and covering other related expenses. These estimates align with typical electrician rates in Ontario.

Cost to Rewire a Light Switch

There are many simple and affordable wiring upgrades you can make in your home that can deliver immediate aesthetic and functional benefits. For instance, rewiring a light switch can improve how you light a room.

The cost to rewire or replace a light switch typically ranges from $70 to $200. If you have multiple switches to address, your contractor may be able to offer a discount, allowing you to save considerably.

Cost to Add Light Fixtures

Is it time to replace or repair your light fixtures? These are a key element in any room, significantly influencing the overall design and ambiance of your space. It's important to ensure they are properly wired and provide modern lighting solutions. The cost of installing a light fixture typically ranges from $390 to $1,500, depending on the complexity of the job.

For instance, installing a fixture in a location that has never had one before will require running new wiring, which can be more labor-intensive. However, if you’re replacing a fixture in a space that previously had one, you may only need to update the old wiring, making the installation process simpler and quicker.

Cost to Repair or Replace Electrical Outlet

Electrical outlets are essential for powering your home, so it's important to ensure they are up-to-date and functioning efficiently. If you notice power surges or sparks when using your outlets, it's likely time to call an electrician. If an outlet is malfunctioning, the electrician will replace it with a new, modern one.

This might include upgrading to more advanced outlets, such as those with built-in USB ports. Installation is typically quick and requires minimal materials. For an electrical outlet repair or replacement, you can expect the cost to range between $170 and $240.