Hiring an electrician in Singapore shouldn’t feel like a gamble, but it often does. With unclear pricing, hidden fees, and wildly different rates, how do you know if you’re getting a fair deal?
Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this article, I’ll be sharing:
- What really drives up the cost of electrician services
- The ultimate electrician price list in Singapore
- 6 hidden costs to watch out for when engaging an electrician
- The simplest way to find a competent electrician in Singapore
If you’re looking to engage electrician services in Singapore, keep reading. This could save you hundreds of dollars (and a massive headache).
Why Knowing the Prices of Electrician Services Matters
Pricing isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about peace of mind.
But here's the thing: Electricians in Singapore handle a wide range of jobs, from simple fixes to major installations. They charge based on project complexity, materials, and qualifications. With so many variables, it’s easy to get lost in the details.
That’s why I always recommend asking for a clear, itemised quote before commencing any electrical service. When you know what an electrician charges for their services, you can plan your budget without worrying about hidden fees or unexpected costs. For homeowners, this means avoiding overspending on small fixes. For interior designers, it helps allocate project budgets more effectively.
As you navigate the complexities of choosing the right electrician, it's essential to have as much information as possible at your fingertips. For that reason, I'll be sharing an electrician price list, along with insights on how to make an informed decision when hiring an electrician in Singapore.
What Affects Cost of Electrician Services in Singapore?
Let's start with the key factors that can significantly impact the cost of electrician services in Singapore.
1. Complexity of electrical services
The complexity of the task has a direct impact on the cost. Simple jobs like replacing a power socket or installing a light fixture typically incur lower fees.
More demanding electrical services, such as full electrical rewiring for a Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat, often come with higher charges due to the time and detailed work involved.
Other scenarios that will increase the price of electrician services include:
- Non-standard wiring: Older buildings or unique home renovations can have unconventional wiring, requiring more time and expertise to troubleshoot.
- Hidden issues: Problems like faulty wiring behind walls or under floors can be difficult to diagnose and repair, leading to unexpected costs. Unforeseen issues like water damage or structural problems may also be discovered, leading to additional costs.
2. Emergency vs scheduled electrician services
Emergency electrician services generally cost more than scheduled appointments. Emergencies often involve urgent repairs like fixing power outages, which require electricians to respond quickly, outside of normal workday hours. This results in higher service fees for their availability and immediate resolution.
Scheduled services, on the other hand, allow electricians to plan ahead and optimise resources, making them more affordable. If timing isn't critical, scheduling ahead helps you save costs.
For urgent issues, ensure the electrician discusses and justifies the pricing before the service begins to prevent unexpected expenses.
3. Experience & qualifications of electricians
Experience and qualifications naturally lead to higher rates. Licensed electricians in Singapore, authorised by the Energy Market Authority (EMA), often charge more for their expertise and compliance with Singapore's electrical safety standards.
There are 3 categories of licensed electricians in Singapore, with costs increasing based on licence level:
- Licensed Electrician
- Licensed Electrical Technician
- Licensed Electrical Engineer
If you're looking to engage a licensed electrician for your HDB flat, you're likely looking at a Licensed Electrician.
Electrician Price List in 2025: A Guide to Electrician Service Costs in Singapore
To help you make an informed decision, I've put together an electrician price comparison list, covering the common electrical services in Singapore.
I hope this resource not only helps you gauge the market rate, but also empowers you to make a well-informed choice that fits your needs.
| Service | Electrician A | Electrician B | Electrician C | Electrician D | Electrician E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replace light bulb | $50 - $65 per bulb | From $86; each additional bulb from $43 | $60 per bulb | From $89; each additional bulb from $49 | From $60 per bulb |
| Install / replace LED light | Not stated | From $105; each additional light from $70 | Not stated | From $97; each additional light from $77 | Not stated |
| Install downlight (owner provides light fitting) | $55 - $65; $25 for each additional light | From $105; each additional light from $70 | Not stated | From $97; each additional light from $77 | From $60; each additional point from $25 |
| Replace light fitting | $50 - $65 per fitting | From $120; each additional fitting from $90 | $60 per fitting | From $117; $97 for each additional point | From $60; $40 for each additional point |
| Install hanging / decorative light fitting / chandelier | $120 - $140 per chandelier | From $90 with existing point; each additional point from $60 | $120 per chandelier | From $97 with existing point; each additional point from $67 | From $65 for new point; from $45 with existing point; From $100 per chandelier |
| Install lighting point | $55 to $65; $30 for each additional point | From $90 (Includes switch point, non-conceal) | $80; $30 for each additional point | Not stated | From $65 per point |
| Replace light switch | $55 to $75 per switch | From $90; each additional switch from $50 | $60 per switch | Not stated | Not stated |
| Supply and install dimmer switch point (non-conceal) | Not stated | From $90 per point | Not stated | Not stated | From $85 per point |
| Install wall fan (owner provides fan fitting) | $120 to $130; $100 for each additional fan | From $70 with existing point; each additional point from $40 | $120; $100 for each additional fan | From $77 with existing point; each additional point from $47 | From $80 for new point |
| Install ceiling fan (owner provides fan fitting) | $150 to $160; $120 for each additional fan | Not stated | $180; $120 for each additional fan | Not stated | From $150 for new point |
| Install power socket | $80 - $120 per 3-pin socket next to existing socket | From $90 (Includes single/double 13AMP socket, non-conceal) | $90 per 3-pin socket next to existing socket | From $90 (Includes single/double 13AMP socket, non-conceal) | From $65 (single 13AMP); From $85 (double 13AMP), non-conceal |
| Replace power socket | $65 - $85 per socket | From $90; each additional socket from $50 | $90 per socket | Not stated | Not stated |
| Install 15AMP power point for aircon | $180 - $245 per power point | Not stated | $150 per power point | Not stated | From $150 per power point, non-conceal |
| Install 13AMP power point for washing machine | Not stated | Not stated | Not stated | Not stated | From $120 per power point, non-conceal |
| Install electricity water tank heater | $80 - $120 (≤10L); $160 - $250 (>10L) | Not stated | $100 (≤10L); $150 (>10L) | Not stated | Not stated |
| Install telephone point | $95 - $100 per point | Not stated | $100; $60 for each additional point | Not stated | $40 - $60 per point, non-conceal |
| Install SCV point / cable point | $100 to $110; $80 for each additional point | Not stated | $120; $80 for each additional point | Not stated | $110 - $150 per point, non-conceal |
| Install OpenNet, Data & LAN port / point | $115 to $125; $90 for each additional point | Not stated | $120; $90 for each additional point | Not stated | Not stated |
| Replace 32A distribution box & circuit breaker | $200 - $400 per replacement | Not stated | $250 per replacement | Not stated | Not stated |
Potential Unexpected Costs of Hiring An Electrician in Singapore
You're now armed with an electrician price list for common services in Singapore, but hiring an electrician can sometimes lead to additional expenses that aren't always obvious upfront.\ To avoid surprises, here are some common areas where hidden costs might arise:
1. Transport fees
Some electricians will charge you a sum just to show up, which might differ based on your location. Always ask if transport is included in the quote.
2. Inspection fees
Likewise, electrical contractors in Singapore may charge fees for initial assessments or troubleshooting. This cost may or may not be refunded if you engage them for further electrician services. Always check if inspections are included in the quotation.
3. Material costs
Electricians may also charge separately for materials like switches or fittings. If your electrician doesn’t specify that the quoted price includes or excludes material costs, clarify this before confirming any electrical works.
4. Emergency or after-hours charges
Emergency or 24 hours electrical services are usually higher in cost due to their urgency, especially if service is needed outside regular work hours. If you’re calling for emergency electrical repairs, it’s essential to confirm any surcharge before scheduling the service.
5. Complexity of electrical works
Certain electrical services might require additional labour, leading to higher charges. However, electricians may not provide estimates that account for unforeseen challenges. Ask how complexity might affect the final cost, especially for older properties.
6. No-show fee
Some electricians may charge a no-show fee if you miss a scheduled appointment. This fee is typically implemented as a safeguard to ensure that clients respect the time of the electrician.
How to Find a Competent Electrician in Singapore
Many tend to look for cheap or affordable electricians, and opting for the cheapest electrician service might seem appealing at first.
However, this can sometimes compromise the quality and safety of the work conducted. After all, electrical problems, if poorly handled, can lead to significant risks like electrical fires, faulty systems, and increased costs for repairs in the future.
I started UnkerList because, let’s face it, finding reliable contractors in Singapore shouldn’t feel like a game of chance. I’ve been there too—unsure of who to trust, worrying if the job’s going to be done properly, and just hoping for the best.
Whether you’re working on a home renovation or dealing with a tricky electrical problem, UnkerList is here to connect you with skilled contractors that real people have already tried and tested.
We’ve put together Singapore’s largest directory of contractors, so you can browse detailed profiles, compare services, and contact the professionals directly. Getting started is easy—here's how to find trustworthy electrician services rated by customers in Singapore.
