Cost of Electrical Wiring and Repairs in South Africa
| Average Cost of Home Wiring | R10,000 to R30,000 (3 bedroom house) |
| Budget Cost of Home Wiring | R3,000 to R15,000 (small houses or simple installations) |
| High-End Cost of Home Wiring | R30,000 to R80,000+ (for large properties) |
- These prices above are estimates and can vary
The national average for electrical wiring repairs or installations can vary significantly depending on the scope and complexity of the job. Homeowners could expect to pay anywhere between R500 to R1500 per hour for a licensed electrician’s services (which you’ll need in order to obtain an Electrical Certificate of Compliance). However, full home rewiring jobs or extensive installations can easily escalate to several thousand Rands, often calculated on a per-point or per-project basis. The typical cost of rewiring a 3-bedroom house is R10,000 to R30,000.
The average price per double plug point when installing new wiring or rewiring varies between R350 and R700 with the average price per single plug point being around R200 to R500.
Comprehensive cost guide on Wiring Installations and Rewiring
Electrical wiring installations and rewiring is a critical part of any construction or renovation project. South Africa has stringent regulations as per the South African National Standards (SANS) to ensure safety and efficiency in electrical work. Given the complexity and risks associated with electrical wiring, this guide delves into the various aspects of the service—from costs to execution—catering specifically to South African homeowners and property managers.
Estimated Costs Associated Wiring Installations and Rewiring
Here is a breakdown of the potential costs you might encounter for electrical wiring services in South Africa:
| Electrical cables (PVC insulated): | R2 - R30 per meter, depending on the gauge and type. |
| Circuit breakers: | R100 - R800 each. |
| Sockets and switches: | R20 - R200 per unit. |
| Distribution boards: | R700 - R4000, depending on the number of circuits. |
| Conduit and trunking: | R15 - R100 per meter. |
| Qualified electrician: | R500 - R1200+ per hour |
| Electrical assistant: | R150 – R400 per hour. |
| Call-out fee: | R400 - R800. |
| Compliance certificate: | Approximately R950 - R1500 upon completion of the work. |
*Please note that prices may fluctuate based on location, current market rates, and the specific requirements of your installation.
How Is Wiring Installation and Rewiring Conducted?
The typical steps for wiring installations or rewiring are as follows:
- Assessment: A professional electrician will assess the site and requirements.
- Planning: Detailed planning of the wiring layout according to SANS.
- Installation: Laying out conduits, cables, and installing electrical boxes.
- Wiring: Running wires through conduits and securing them.
- Testing: Checking for proper connections and load balance.
- Finishing: Installing faceplates on switches and outlets.
- Inspection and Certification: A final inspection is conducted, and an Electrical Certificate of Compliance (CoC) is issued.
How Long Does It Typically Take to do Wiring Installations or Rewiring?
The timeframe for electrical wiring installation can vary:
- Small repairs: A few hours. Single room installation: 1-2 days.
- Full home installation: 1-2 weeks, depending on the size of the property and complexity.
*Labour typically involves one licensed electrician and possibly an assistant, depending on the workload.
DIY - Can I Do My Own Wiring Installations?
While DIY electrical work is not recommended due to safety concerns and regulatory compliance, very minor or simple tasks such as replacing a light switch or outlet can be done by a competent homeowner (given you have experience). Always ensure the main power is off before attempting any electrical work and consult with a professional if uncertain.
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When Should You Get Professional Help?
Professional help should be sought for:
- New installations.
- Major repairs or rewiring.
- Any task requiring a Certificate of Compliance (CoC).
- Jobs that involve interacting with the main distribution board.
ow to Save Money on Wiring Installations?
To save on electrical wiring and rewiring costs:
- Combine jobs to reduce call-out fees.
- Purchase materials in advance, after consultation with your electrician.
- Prepare the workspace for easy access to save on labour time.
- Regular maintenance to avoid major repairs.
How Do I Find The Right Pro for Electrical Wiring or Rewiring?
Both Wiring installations and rewiring require precision and understanding of local regulations. Kandua simplifies this process for South African homeowners. By posting a job with Kandua, you can relax knowing you'll be connected with and receive quotes from affordable, vetted and top rated electricians who can efficiently handle your electrical wiring installation or rewiring needs.
Now that you have a better understanding of electrical wiring prices – it’s time to find the best Pro for the job.
Luckily for you – Kandua has hundreds of Pros who do electrical wiring and repairs on a daily basis.
Here are our top tips to help you find the right Pro:
- Give the contractor as much information as possible. The more details they have the more efficiently they can quote on the job and also offer their professional advice.
- Once you’ve gotten quotes from different Pros – you can look up their profiles on Kandua and read their reviews and see pictures of their work.
- Read the quote carefully. Make sure you double-check everything so you know exactly what you are getting yourself into.
Remember, it’s not always about finding the cheapest option. Stick to these tips, and take into account the entire package, Pro reviews, your experience in dealing with them and then, of course, the cost.
These figures are approximate and may not accurately reflect current prices in South Africa. Click here for free, non-obligatory, up-to-date, location-specific quotes for wiring installations or rewiring.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wiring Installations and Rewiring
Q: How often should electrical wiring be checked or replaced?
A: Electrical wiring should be inspected every 5 to 10 years for wear and tear, but it typically lasts 20 to 25 years before it needs replacing.
Q: Are there any specific regulations for electrical wiring in South Africa?
A: Yes, all electrical work must comply with SANS and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. An Electrical CoC is required for all electrical installations.
Q: Can I install additional outlets on my own?
A: While it is possible, it's not recommended unless you have electrical training. Incorrect installation can lead to fire hazards and void home insurance.
Q: What is a Certificate of Compliance (CoC)?
A: A CoC certifies that the electrical work done on a property complies with the legislated requirements and standards. A CoC is valid for 2 years.
Q: How much does it cost to rewire an entire house in South Africa?
A: Rewiring an entire house can cost anywhere from R10,000 to R80,000 or more, depending on the size of the house and complexity of the installation.
