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Last updated: 25 March 2023
Cost to replace light switch
Looking to replace or install new light switches? Find out how much you should be budgeting to upgrade your switches.
What are the factors that influence the cost to install a light switch?
There are a number of factors that could affect the cost of installing a light switch:
What finish you choose: Adding a dimmer switch instead of a conventional light switch or opting for a chrome finish will cost more.
How many switches need replacing: Most electricians charge a minimum of half a day’s labour, so getting just one light switch replaced won’t be economical.
Whether your electrician works in a pair: Many electricians work in pairs for safety reasons. An electrician's day rateis around £320per person.
Whether you’re replacing, adding or moving switches: In general, replacing a light switch like-for-like will cost less than installing a new switch.
Cost of replacing a light switch
| Cost provided item | Typical UK cost + VAT |
|---|---|
| Replace a light switch like-for-like | £75 |
| Move a light switch | £150 |
| Add a light switch | £150 |
| Replace 5 light switches like-for-like | £100 |
| Add 5 light switches | £250 |
| Last updated: May 2024 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | |
Replacing a light switch like-for-like typically costs around £75 (including materials). Although the job will only take around an hour, most electricians will charge for a minimum of half a day’s work.
On the other hand, replacing five light switches (or plug sockets) like-for-like will cost around £100 and take around two to three hours. As you can see, it’s much more cost-effective to replace more than one light switch at a time (or to get your electrician in for more than one job).
How much does it cost to install a light switch?
If you’re hoping to install a new light switch or to move one to a new position, you can expect to pay around £150 - £200 (including materials and a quick replastering job where necessary).
Unlike a simple light switch replacement, these options usually involve additional wiring, tapping into existing cables, adding a new junction box, cutting into the wall and plasterwork. So, it’s no surprise that the cost is higher.
Cost to install a light switch summary
It’s more economical to replace a number of light switches or plug sockets at once.
The cost to replace a light switch like-for-like is approximately £75.
The cost to move or install a new light switch is approximately £150 - £200.
The average day rate for an electrician is £320.
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