Last updated on August 25th, 2022
Cost to replace light switch
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 rate is around £320 per 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 |
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.
Ready to get that light switch installed? Use our free search tool to find a trusted electrician near you.
Checkatrade
Dear Fiona - having looked at this guide and reviewed your comment. Most electricians charge a half-day rate for work like this. In your scenario, we do not knowing the absolute detail of your job (there may have been some tricky issues to deal with etc.). However, basing your replacement of two electrical switches - an electrician day rate is ballparked around £320 so if the total was £284 (including VAT), that seems to fall into a fairly sensible band of costs. You also don't mention if you upgraded or asked for higher-end replacement products. We always recommend getting a few quotes in to ensure you have options to guide your decision.
Fiona
A tradesman we got through checkatrade has just charged us £284 to repair two electrical switches and replace fittings. £100 per hour plus parts and vat. Is that reasonable?