Electrician Cost Guide In Singapore (Updated 2023)

As our society progresses, we need more electricity and energy consumption for the betterment of our lives.

Over the years, as electricity dependency increases, we become ever more reliant on it for our daily lives as well as at home – air-conditioners, charging ports, computers, lights, as well as television and many other appliances such as smart home functions.

Our general advice is that when it comes to electrical problems because it can become complicated and subject to many human errors or accidents, we strongly advise you to engage a local electrician for the work.

Hire an Electrician

 

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Cost of Electrical Works In Singapore

In general, the pricing and services of electrical works depend heavily on the job scope, location, and level of expertise. Some factors include transportation, ERP charges, car park charges.

In Singapore, you need to engage a licensed professional – it is required by law to do so. Check out EMA of Singapore for more information.

Emergency electrical services, especially those in the wee hours, have a separate surcharge. Likewise, if premium materials are being used, additional charges may be added too.

Generally, if there are more jobs within the same project/site, the individual project cost decreases.

For your reference, here is a downloadable Electrical Works Cost Guide for you:

 

Electrical Cost Guide

 

Electrical Works Calculator – Electrical Work Price Estimates in Singapore (2024)

Here is an electrical works calculator for you to estimate the cost of service required.

(Calculator is currently in beta phase.) 

Electrical Installation Costs

Electrical Re-wiring Prices for HDB Rooms

3-Room HDB Wiring

4-Room HDB Wiring

5-Room HDB Wiring

Lighting Fixtures Price

For Replacement Prices

LED Ceiling Light Price

Lighting is needed for us to continue with our daily routines. Thus, you might as well take the opportune moment to consider your lighting decor that best complements each room in your house.

Prices to install lighting may be cheaper than the lights itself but do consider the fact that labour costs depend on the ease of installation of your electrical appliances.

Helpful read: Causes of Outlets Sparking and What To Do About Them

Cost of Installing or Upgrading Your Distribution Board (DB) Box

• Cost of replacing a distribution box: $100-$140
• Cost of installing a distribution box: $350 to $900

*For landed houses, the price varies depending on the size of your home, as well as the number of electrical points in your house.

Integrating a new panel box into your home is a complicated job, and thus installation costs will fluctuate from household to household.

Get advice from your electrical contractor on whether your distribution box needs replacing so that potential hazards can be avoided.

Average Costs of Installing New Wiring, Rewiring and Switches

In Singapore, there may be instances where you will need rewiring or installing new wirings, such as kitchen or home renovation projects. A typical HDB rewiring cost for the type of housing is:

The pricing depends on the state and design of your home, and wiring can differ significantly in terms of price and duration. The wiring may also require you to modify your current distribution box, which will increase costs.

Sometimes, an electrical company may also offer HDB rewiring packages, which include changing out socket outlets, installing new outlets (including heavy-duty ones such as aircon/water heater points)or data points and replacing DB boxes. You can enquire about packages for your home rewiring with the company themselves.

Engage a reliable electrician to come up with a quote for your home spaces, as you could be paying $50-$150 per hour for their labour costs.

Find Electrical Wiring Services

 

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Cost of Installing or Replacing an Electrical Outlet

Installing an electrical outlet is simple, which is why some homeowners consider handling the task themselves to save money. You can try to install an electrical outlet yourself, but some outlets may require more expert knowledge to install.

A caveat: Installing the outlet incorrectly will lead to safety hazards. It is recommended to have a professional install an electrical outlet for safety reasons.

An outlet installation will set you back for about $200, but you can often get replacements for other outlets at the same time at a bargained price.

Install and Repair Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans come in different shapes and sizes and serve as an economical alternative to air conditioning, which costs more to operate and maintain. You can find fan installation professionals on Homees.

They can also help to reduce the humidity in your house to prevent moisture-related problems. As with lighting, the fan itself might cost more than its installation.

If you are looking to do any of the projects above, talk to an electrician and compare their quotations and work scope. Ask them for their advice and suggestion on how to go about completing your project.

 

Find an Electrician

 

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Helpful read: Circuit Breaker Tripping: Causes and Proposed Solutions

Cost of Hiring Electricians (Service call and inspection rates)

Generally, there are two kinds of ways for electricians to charge by:

• Per hour (time)
• Per project

When hiring professionals, do take note that most of them charge a minimum fee for their visit. This minimum fee (or inspection rate) could range between $30-$50, depending on your location. This fee is to cover their travel time and gas to get to the area.

Typically, the first hour costs more due to these miscellaneous items (such as travelling time, gas, time) representing most of the costs. Also, note that some electricians do charge a no-show or no-call fee if you miss the appointment.

It is important to note that professionals may charge two different kinds of hourly rates.

First, there is a rate at which an electrician gets paid and a rate at which the electrician will bill. Some charge only fees to cover their time and cost, while others add a professional assessment fee to the total sum.

There could also be some hidden costs in electrical projects, and all these could add up. Be sure to clarify in your call with electricians before hiring them to the site.

While professionals can give you an estimate, it may not necessarily be accurate all of the time. The best is to call up at least 2-3 electrical contractors and ask them for their experience and pricing for each project.

There could always be other factors that can affect the cost of your electrical project (such as ERP fees, and parking fees). Most importantly, look for a registered EMA licensed worker.

Factors that can affect electrician rates

To sum up, below are a few factors that can affect your cost when engaging a contractor:

Distance: Electricians will factor in the mileage travelled. For example, if you stay in Sentosa, it can cost more due to the entrance fee and the distance the professionals have to go out of town.

Complexity: A more extensive project such as a whole-house rewiring can cost more than just a simple light bulb or socket replacement – the more time needed for the job, the more costly the project.

Emergency or 24 hours: Needless to say, if you need an electrician in the middle of the night due to a blackout, you will need to pay a surcharge (or additional fees) for the service rendered, typically around $80-200 more for the emergency services.

Experience: According to EMA, there are three classes of Licensed Electrical Workers (LEWs). Typically, you have to pay more for the higher-level electricians. They are:

• Licensed Electricians
• Licensed Electrical Technicians
• Licensed Electrical Engineers

HDB Electrical Works Guidelines in Singapore

Before hiring a contractor for electrical works in Singapore, be sure to check out HDB’s guidelines in this area. HDB terms and conditions include requiring all wiring installation work to be carried out by an EMA licensed electrical worker. You can find out more about HDB’s regulations on electrical works here.

A licensed contractor should carry their valid license

It is important to make sure the licensed contractor you are engaging holds a valid license. This card includes the licensed worker’s photograph, and it shows his name, identity card number and licence number.  You can find out more about the license here.

Hiring the Right Electrical Contractor

Most electrical work requires a basic understanding of how electricity and circuits work, which requires expertise, knowledge and safety precautions. Though smaller projects such as replacing a light bulb can be DIY-ed, it is generally recommended that you hire a professional if you are unsure of the project.

The dangers of electrical shocks or fire cannot be understated. Therefore, if you are unsure of your abilities, please call in a professional immediately!

Be sure to do a background check before hiring a professional and follow these tips to hire the right one for your project today.

 

Hire an Electrician

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does rewiring cost in Singapore?

Rewiring costs in Singapore vary depending on property size, electrical requirements, and the materials used. For HDB flats, costs typically range from $2,000 to $12,000, with a 2-room flat costing $2,000 to $4,000, a 3-room flat between $3,000 and $6,000, and a 5-room flat ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. Landed properties may cost more based on the number of outlets and accessibility of wiring. 

Factors affecting the cost include the building’s age, the complexity of the rewiring, and specific customer needs. Rewiring usually involves replacing outdated wiring, upgrading electrical panels, and installing new outlets and switches. To get an accurate quote tailored to your home’s needs, always consult with a licensed electrician.

What do most electricians charge per hour?

In Singapore, electricians typically charge between $50 and $100 per hour, depending on several factors such as the job complexity, electrician’s experience, and the urgency of the work. For simpler tasks, like minor electrical repairs or installations, a flat service call fee ranging from $40 to $80 may apply. More experienced electricians or specialized services (e.g., emergency repairs or work in hard-to-reach areas) may incur higher charges. 

Additionally, charges may vary based on the location within Singapore, and electricians may charge extra for after-hours or emergency services. To avoid surprises, it’s always recommended to request an upfront quote or inquire about any potential additional fees.

How much does it cost to install a power point in Singapore?

The cost to install a power point in Singapore typically ranges from $120 to $200, with variations based on factors like the type of power point, installation location, and wiring complexity. A single 13AMP power point usually costs between $65 to $85, while a double 13AMP power point can range from $85 to $150. Labor costs typically range from $50 to $100, depending on the electrician’s experience and the complexity of the job. 

Additional charges may apply for tasks such as rewiring, wall hacking, or installation in hard-to-reach areas. It’s important to confirm whether the quoted price includes materials and labor to avoid unexpected costs. Always request a detailed quote from the electrician to ensure a transparent pricing structure.

How much does an electrician charge for a powerpoint?

In Singapore, electricians charge between $50 and $100 for labor when installing a power point, with the total cost (including labor and materials) typically ranging from $120 to $200. Prices vary depending on factors like the type of power point, location, and installation complexity. Standard 13AMP power points cost around $65 to $85, while a double power point can range from $85 to $150. More advanced options, such as USB power points or intelligent power points, can cost between $120 and $400. 

Additional costs may apply if rewiring, wall hacking, or installing in hard-to-reach areas is needed. Always confirm whether the quoted price includes both labor and materials to avoid unexpected fees.

How much does it cost to replace a circuit breaker in Singapore?

In Singapore, replacing a circuit breaker typically costs between $100 and $250, which includes both the price of the circuit breaker and the labor of a certified electrician. Factors such as the type of circuit breaker, location, and complexity of the job may affect the final cost. It’s essential to confirm with the electrician whether the quoted price covers both materials and labor to avoid unexpected charges. Always hire a licensed professional to ensure proper installation and safety.

How much does it cost to replace an RCCB in an HDB flat?

Replacing an RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker) in an HDB flat in Singapore typically costs between $200 and $400, which includes both parts and labor. The price can vary depending on the RCCB model, amperage, and the complexity of the installation. If additional rewiring or updates to an older electrical system are required, the cost may be higher. Always confirm with the electrician whether the quoted price includes all necessary components and labor to avoid any surprises.

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Electrician Singapore Price Infographic

Before we proceed further, we have prepared an electrician cost guide for your easy reference.

Check out the infographics we have created regarding electrical prices in Singapore, click on the image to see the full infographic.

Disclaimer: Homees aims to provide a guide of electrical job prices to the best of its ability but does not guarantee each project to be within the prices stated in the guide.

Please note some factors such as whether there are existing ports, whether there are existing materials (such as bulbs) provided by owners can affect project costs as well.