How much are average Electrician prices/rates in South Africa?

Looking for a cost estimation on getting electrical work done? Learn more about the hourly rates, fees and costs associated with hiring a professional electrician in South Africa.

National Average rate (per hour)
R
650
High-End Rate (per hour)
R
1000
Typical Home+ Rate (Per hour)*
R
599
Low-End Rate (Per hour)
R
500
Average Callout Fee
R
600
Average Emergency Callout Fee
R
900
*Read Disclaimer
arrow icon
fairwork logo

*We prioritize fair pay, fair working conditions, fair contracts and recognize the role of trade unions in collective bargaining for platform workers.

Electrician Prices
A snapshot by numbers:

In South Africa, securing the services of a skilled electrician is crucial for addressing electrical issues safely and efficiently. The fees charged by electricians can vary widely, influenced by factors such as the electrician's level of experience, the complexity of the electrical problem, and the geographic location of the service. This post will explore the average rates and prices as informed by the Electrical Contractors Association of South Africa (ECASA) that one can expect to pay when hiring an electrician in South Africa.

National Average Rates (ZAR per Hour)

Breakdown of national average rates

Rates by province

Breakdown of rates per province

Example costing of a typical job

Example costing breakdown

Labour vs. materials

Breakdown of labour vs. materials

What's in this cost guide?

Whatsapp icon

We're on Whatsapp!

What is the average hourly rate for a professional electrician in South Africa?

In South Africa, electrician services encompass a wide range of tasks from simple electrical repairs to complex system installations. The cost varies based on several factors including the job's complexity, the electrician's level of expertise, and the geographical location of the service. On average, the cost to hire an electrician is around R650 per hour. The rates generally fluctuate between R450/hour for basic tasks to R950/hour for more intricate work. It's important to note that these prices are exclusive of any materials required for the job, and additional travel costs may be incurred depending on the electrician's location in relation to the job site.

National Average Cost of Electrician Services

According to the latest guidelines from the Electrical Contractors Association of South Africa (ECASA), here are the suggested service rates for electricians in 2023:

  • Service Rate Per Hour: R500 to R900, with the average rate being around R650 per hour across different provinces.
  • Call-out Fee: Typically ranges from R500 to R700, varying with the electrician's policies and the job's urgency.

Average Emergency Electrician Call-out Fees

For emergency electrical services, the rates are generally higher, reflecting the urgency and potential risk involved. Emergency services can range from R600 to R1200 per hour. This rate usually encompasses the call-out fee and may include the cost of the first hour of labor. The average cost for an emergency electrician's call-out fee is around R900 per hour, with a typical range of R600 to R1200 per hour.

High-End Electrician Cost

High-end electrical services in South Africa command a premium, with hourly rates ranging from R900 to R1300. These rates are associated with more complex and specialized tasks, such as:

  • Electrical Panel Upgrades: Upgrading old or inadequate electrical panels to support modern electrical loads.
  • Solar Panel Installation: Installing and integrating solar panels into existing electrical systems.
  • Home Automation Systems: Setting up smart home technologies requiring intricate electrical work.
  • Advanced Fault-Finding and Repairs: Diagnosing and fixing complex electrical issues.
  • Custom Electrical System Design and Installation: Tailoring electrical systems for specific, often high-end, applications.

These services demand advanced technical knowledge, certification, and the use of specialized equipment, which are factors contributing to the higher cost.

Low-End Electrician Cost

For more basic electrical services, the cost is generally lower. You can expect to pay around R500 per hour for tasks like:

  • Minor Electrical Repairs: Addressing simple electrical issues.
  • Basic Wiring Tasks: Such as adding new outlets or light fixtures.
  • Light Fixture Installation: Including ceiling fans and external lighting.
  • Switch and Outlet Replacement: Updating or repairing existing fixtures.
  • Circuit Breaker Repairs: Fixing or replacing faulty breakers.

Regional Electrician Costs

Costs can vary significantly across different regions in South Africa:

  • Western Cape: Average hourly rates range from R500 to R900, with call-out fees typically between R500 and R700.
  • Johannesburg: The going rate is about R600 per hour, with a range from R450 to R750 per hour.
  • Pretoria: Rates span from R350 to R750 per hour.
  • Kwa-Zulu Natal: A general residential electrical service costs around R700 per hour on average, with a standard call-out fee of about R600.

Factors Influencing Electrician Cost

Several factors can affect the cost of electrician services:

  • Job Complexity: Complex jobs require advanced skills and longer time, increasing costs.
  • Electrician Experience: More experienced electricians generally charge higher rates.
  • Labour Costs: These vary based on the type of job and its duration.
  • Emergency Services: Higher fees are typically charged for urgent jobs.
  • Time of Day: After-hours or weekend services may incur additional charges.
  • Location: Regional differences can influence costs.
  • Materials Used: The price and quality of materials required for the job. Visit Builders Warehouse Online to check prices of electronic parts and equipment
  • Travelling Distance: Longer travel distances may lead to extra charges.

Task Difficulty affects cost

Easy Jobs:

  • Replacing a Switch: Approximately 1 hour of labor costing around R500, plus materials costing about R100.
  • Installing a Light Fixture: This can take 1-2 hours, with labor costing R700 and materials around R300.

Difficult Jobs:

  • Wiring a House: This is a multi-day job (5-10 days), costing R700 per hour in labor and about R10,000 for materials.
  • Panel Upgrade: A 6-8 hour job, with labor at R900 per hour and material costs around R5,000.

Common Electrician Jobs and Estimated Costs

Here's a look at some common electrical tasks and their estimated costs:

  • Minor Electrical Repair: R500-R800, for tasks like fixing faulty switches.
  • Basic Wiring Job: R1,200-R2,500, such as adding new electrical outlets.
  • Light Fixture Installation: R1,000-R2,000, depending on the fixture's complexity.
  • Switch/Outlet Replacement: R400-R700, a relatively straightforward task.
  • Circuit Breaker Repair: R700-R1,200, varying with the breaker's specifications.

Example Costing of a Typical Electrical Job

  • Task: Wiring a New Room
  • Materials: Wires, outlets, switches, totalling R2,000
  • Labour: 8 hours at R700/hour
  • Call Out Fee: R600
  • Additional Fees: Travel costs, estimated at R200
  • Estimated Total Cost: +/- R8000

When to Hire a Professional Electrician?

It's advisable to hire a professional electrician for tasks that are beyond basic electrical knowledge, involve safety concerns, or when dealing with multiple electrical issues. Situations that warrant professional help include electrical panel upgrades, new installations, and troubleshooting complex problems. Click here to get connected with a vetted expert.

Tips to Save Money When Hiring an Electrician

  • Bundle Minor Tasks: Combine several small jobs into one visit to reduce overall costs.
  • Purchase Materials Independently: If feasible, buy the necessary materials yourself. Visit Builders Warehouse to buy materials online.
  • Regular Maintenance: Keeping your electrical system well-maintained can prevent expensive repairs down the line.

How to Hire a Great Electrician?

Utilize the Home+ app. We connect you with vetted, cost-effective electricians in your local area. Simply download the app or book online to quickly find reliable electrician services near you.

Find An Electrician Near You

If you're ready to perform electrical maintenance and repairs around your home, take the next steps and get connected with an expert electrician near you. Download the Home+ App or simply book your job online to get connected with a vetted and affordable electricians near you.

*Disclaimer

The information provided in this Electrician Cost Guide is intended for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the guide or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the guide for any purpose.

The costs and estimates mentioned in this guide are based on averages and typical scenarios in South Africa and should not be taken as exact figures or quotations. Prices and rates can vary significantly based on specific circumstances, locations, and changes in market conditions.

This guide is not intended to substitute for professional advice. Always seek the expertise of a qualified and licensed electrician for any electrical needs. The user's reliance on any information in this guide is strictly at their own risk. Click here to get a free and accurate quote on your electrician related needs today.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this electrician cost guide.

Book a job now
Get connected directly to one of our heroes through our web app
Book your job online
icons representing the jobs that can be booked through Home+
Request a call back
Not sure what you need? 
Let us call you and we can manually connect you to a Hero!
Comprehensive cost breakdowns

Related cost guides

Don’t let the complexity of trade service costs leave you in the dark. Our comprehensive cost guides offer clear, detailed insights into the pricing landscape of trade services across South Africa. Whether you’re planning a project or budgeting for repairs, our guides are meticulously crafted to save you time and money. Dive into our guides now and take the first step towards cost-effective planning!

View all cost guides...

Join our news letter

Get all the latest updates, events, tips and news

Thank you! We've added you to our mailing list.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

By submitting this form you consent to us emailing you occasionally about our products and services. You can unsubscribe from emails at any time, and we will never pass your email to third parties.

Home maintenance made easy

Download the Home+ app

Save time and hassle with our reliable and professional tradespeople

Download App
Home+ app interface
App store buttons
phone icon
Effortless booking and payment

Say goodbye to the hassle of looking for tradesmen and paying via EFT's – we match you with the best available professionals in your local area and handle all payments securely and conveniently through the app so you don't have to.

clock icon
Your schedule, your way

Whether it's an emergency that needs immediate attention or a planned service at your convenience, simply specify your preferred time frame, and rest assured that your needs will be met precisely when you need them to be.

connect icon
Vetted professionals

No more worrying about the quality of service or your personal safety. With Home+, you can trust that only vetted and qualified tradespeople are at your service. We've done the legwork to ensure you receive the best professionals in your local area.

Home+ is now Kandua!  💪

Kandua is South Africa's leading tech start-up for home maintenance services.

circular tick icon

Our pros are rated 4.6 ★ on average from over 85 000 Reviews