How Much Does an Electrician Cost in London? 2026 Price Guide

One of the most common questions we hear is "how much does an electrician cost in London?" The honest answer is: it depends on the job. But we believe in transparent pricing, so here's a straightforward breakdown of typical electrician costs across London in 2026.

Electrician Hourly Rates in London

Most London electricians charge between £50 and £80 per hour, though rates can be higher in Central London or for specialist work. Some electricians charge day rates instead — typically £350–£500 per day for a qualified electrician.

However, for most jobs, a fixed quoted price is better for the customer. At OS Electrical Safety Ltd, we quote a fixed price upfront for every job — so you know exactly what you'll pay before we start, with no surprises.

Common Electrical Job Prices in London (2026)

Here's what you can expect to pay for the most common electrical work in London. These are typical market rates — your actual price will depend on property specifics.

For detailed information on EICR inspections specifically, see our complete EICR guide for London.

What Affects the Cost?

Several factors can influence the final price of electrical work in London:

• Property size and age: Older properties with dated wiring take longer and may need more extensive work
• Access: Difficult access (e.g., high ceilings, loft spaces, under floors) can increase labour time
• Location within London: Central London can carry a premium due to congestion charges and parking costs
• Scope of work: A straightforward socket swap costs less than running a new circuit from the consumer unit
• Materials: Higher-spec components (e.g., metal consumer units, smart switches) cost more than standard
• Certification requirements: Notifiable work under Part P requires certification, which is included in our prices

How to Avoid Overpaying

Getting value for money doesn't mean choosing the cheapest quote. Here's how to ensure you're paying a fair price:

• Get at least 2–3 quotes — but compare like-for-like. Check what's included (materials, certification, VAT)
• Check credentials — a NAPIT or NICEIC registered electrician may cost slightly more, but their work is certified and insured
• Ask for a fixed price — hourly rates can lead to unexpected bills. A fixed quote gives you certainty
• Beware very low prices — unqualified electricians may undercut on price but leave you with unsafe, uncertified work that costs more to fix later
• Ask about call-out charges — some electricians charge £50–£100 just to turn up. We don't

Fuse Board Upgrades: A Common Cost

One of the most frequently quoted jobs is a fuse board (consumer unit) upgrade. If your board still uses rewirable fuses or lacks RCD protection, upgrading is strongly recommended — and may be required after an EICR. Read our fuse board upgrade guide for a detailed breakdown of costs, timelines, and what to expect.

Smart Home Installation Costs

Smart home technology is increasingly popular in London homes. From smart lighting to automated heating, the cost varies depending on the systems you choose. Our smart home installation guide covers what's involved and typical pricing.

Why Choose OS Electrical Safety Ltd?

We offer free, no-obligation quotes with transparent pricing. No call-out charge, no hidden fees. All work is carried out by qualified, DBS checked electricians and comes with a 2-year workmanship guarantee. We're NAPIT approved and carry £5 million public liability insurance. View all our services or get in touch for a free quote.