Electrical work at a glance – prices, services, and clear decision-making rules

Electrician / Electrical installer / Assembly electrician In Switzerland, hourly rates usually range between CHF 95 and CHF 120. Simpler assembly work tends to be at the lower end of the scale, while qualified electrical installers charge higher rates for complex or safety-related tasks. Additional training, experience, and liability are reflected in the price.

Measurement and testingcosts Flat rates of CHF 20–35 are often charged for the use of measuring devices (e.g., insulation testing, fault current measurement, line analysis). Additional costs may be incurred for complex troubleshooting or detailed testing.

Typical total costs by order size

A qualified electrician is required whenever electrical circuits are modified, fuses are adjusted, or new appliances are connected.

Regional differences, project complexity, accessibility of the installation, and time pressure have a direct impact on the price. Emergency calls, weekend work, or special measurements increase the effort required and thus the costs.

Electricians cover a very wide range of services. It is important to know which jobs need to be carried out professionally and what costs you should expect.

Mounting and connecting lights

What looks simple can quickly become complicated with old connections or heavy lights. The electrician will check not only the mounting, but also the electrical circuit. Cost: around $150–250 for simple lights, $200–400 for complex models or difficult installations. Recommended if the installation is older or the light is heavy or complex.

Sockets, switches, and dimmers

New connections or the replacement of old elements are common tasks. Dimmers also require compatible light bulbs and correctly fused cables. Cost: approx. $50–60 per socket, $60–85 per switch or dimmer (plus materials and basic flat rates). Useful when rooms are being modernized or additional connections are required.

Fuse box and circuit adjustments

Missing FI/LS switches, overloaded circuits, or outdated fuses pose a safety risk. Electricians check the system and adapt it to today's requirements. Cost: usually CHF 1,000–2,500, depending on the scope, number of circuits, and fuse protection. Recommended for renovations or frequently tripping fuses.

Network, multimedia, and smart home solutions

Electricians install structured cabling, access points, multimedia distributors, or complete smart home systems. Cost: approx. $500–1,000 for simple installations, $2,000–5,000 or more for extensive systems.

Wallbox / charging point for electric vehicles

The installation of a charging station must be reported and may only be carried out by specialist companies. In addition, checks are made to ensure that the house connection and fuse protection are adequate. Costs: usually CHF 1,000–3,000, depending on cable routing, fuses, and equipment.

Outdoor lighting and garden lighting

Sockets in the garden, path lighting, or motion detectors require weatherproof cables and RCD protection. Cost: often $300–$1,000, depending on cable length and number of consumers.

New electrical installation during renovation or new construction

For larger projects, new wiring is laid, electrical circuits are planned, switch programs are installed, and lighting concepts are implemented. Costs: roughly $130–230 per square meter in new buildings or $20,000–45,000 for renovations of a single-family home. Recommended for older buildings or comprehensive modernizations.

Repairs and emergencies

Short circuits, defective wiring, or smoldering sockets require immediate action. Cost: usually $300–400 per call, depending on the time of day and the amount of work involved.

Renovating lighting in a 3-room apartment For 6–8 new lights, including checking the connections, the cost is often between $1,000 and $1,700. Designer lights, drilling into concrete, or difficult access increase the cost.

Modernize sockets and switches For 5–8 sockets, 3–4 switches, and 1–2 dimmers, CHF 1,000–1,600 is a realistic estimate. If this work is combined with lamp installation, fixed costs can often be reduced.

Installing a wallbox (11 kW) Depending on the cable routing and fuse protection, installation usually costs between CHF 1,000 and CHF 3,000. Additional circuit breakers or long cable runs drive up the price.

Electrical work during the renovation of an older single-familyhome For new electrical circuits, lighting, networking, and kitchen extensions, many projects cost between $20,000 and $30,000. Smart home technology or complete wiring replacement significantly increase the budget.

Whenever it comes to fixed electrical installations, new wiring, fuse systems, or high-power consumers, an electrician is the safe choice. You can do purely mechanical work yourself, but if you are unsure or have safety concerns, you should leave it to a specialist company. If you compare several quotes, you will usually find a suitable solution at a fair price.