Electrical
Connectwithfast,affordableandvettedElectriciansforallyourElectrical fixtures installationneeds
How it works
.avif)
CoveringallyourElectric Installations and Repairsneeds
HowmuchdoesitcosttohireanaElectricianinSouthAfrica?
Professional Electrical Fixture Installation
Written with insights from Kandua's vetted electricians. Medically reviewed by Jabu Ndlovu, a master electrician in Gauteng with over 15 years of experience.
Installing new electrical fixtures can dramatically transform the look and feel of your home, from modernising a room with sleek downlights to adding convenience with new power points. In South Africa, a professional electrical fixtures installation typically costs between R550 for a simple swap and R5,000 for complex jobs requiring new wiring. The work is always performed by a qualified electrician to ensure safety and legal compliance.
While replacing a light fitting might take 30 minutes, installing a new circuit for a heavy chandelier or ceiling fan can take several hours. The key is ensuring the work is done safely, is compliant with South African regulations like SANS 10142-1, and that the new fixture is compatible with your home's existing electrical system, especially considering challenges like load shedding.
The A-Z of Electrical Fixture Installation
When you decide to upgrade your lighting or add new outlets, you are not just swapping out hardware. You are interacting with a complex system that demands a deep understanding of electrical principles and national safety standards.
"Homeowners often see a simple light fitting and think it's a quick DIY job," says Sipho, a qualified Kandua Pro in Johannesburg. "But they don't see the state of the wiring in the ceiling, the load on the circuit, or whether the earth wire is correctly bonded. That's where the real risk lies."
A professional installation involves a thorough assessment, careful preparation, meticulous wiring, and rigorous testing to ensure safety and long-term functionality.
The Installation Process: What a Pro Does
A qualified electrician follows a systematic approach to ensure everything is done correctly and safely.
1. Assessment and Planning
Before touching a wire, the electrician assesses your current electrical setup. They inspect existing wiring for its condition and correct gauge and check if the junction box is secure and suitable for the new fixture's weight and power needs.
Sipho recalls a client in Sandton who wanted a heavy chandelier installed. "The ceiling box was a standard plastic one, not rated for the weight. Had they installed it themselves, it would have eventually fallen. We had to install a properly braced, metal box to prevent a serious hazard." This initial check is crucial for identifying hidden issues and ensuring your new fixture will not overload a circuit.
2. Preparing for the Installation
Safety is paramount. The electrician will switch off the power to the specific circuit at the distribution board (DB board) and use a voltage tester to confirm the power is off. Once the area is safe, they will carefully remove the old fixture. For a new installation, they might need to chase a channel into the wall for new wiring or securely mount a new junction box.
3. Wiring and Mounting
Precision is key. The electrician securely attaches the mounting bracket to the junction box or a suitable support structure. They then connect the live (brown), neutral (blue), and earth (green and yellow) wires correctly, adhering strictly to the South African National Standard SANS 10142-1. Incorrect wiring is a leading cause of electrical faults and fires.
4. Testing and Final Checks
After the physical installation, the electrician switches the power back on and tests the fixture. They check for flickering, buzzing, and proper functionality. For any new circuits or significant alterations, they perform tests for polarity, continuity, and earth leakage. A qualified electrician will ensure the new installation is 100% compliant and will issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) if the work legally requires it.
The Risk of DIY vs. the Value of a Professional
While it may be tempting to save a few hundred Rand by tackling electrical work yourself, the risks are significant.
- Safety First: Incorrect connections can lead to severe electric shocks, injury, or death. According to the Electrical Conformance Board of South Africa (ECB), faulty electrical installations are a primary cause of house fires.
- Compliance with Regulations: In South Africa, all electrical work must comply with SANS 10142-1. Non-compliant work is illegal and can void your home insurance. Only a qualified electrician registered with the Department of Labour can issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC).
- Expertise and Tools: Modern fixtures, especially smart lights or those with integrated LEDs, are complex. An experienced electrician has the knowledge and specialised tools to handle these complexities, from selecting the right dimmer switch to troubleshooting hidden issues.
"Thabo in Pretoria saved R2,200 in potential repairs when his Kandua Pro spotted a dangerously overloaded circuit during a simple light installation," explains Jabu. "It was a fire waiting to happen, something Thabo admits he would have completely missed on a DIY attempt."
In-Depth Insights into Electrical Installations
Upgrading Your Lighting? What to Consider
Before you begin a lighting upgrade, think beyond aesthetics. Will the new fixture's wiring be compatible with your home's system? Is the existing circuit already under strain? A professional will assess your setup and advise on the right type of light, whether it’s a pendant light or a series of energy-efficient LED downlights, which can reduce your lighting costs by up to 80% according to Eskom. For more ideas, check out these lighting tips for your home.
Electrical Fixture Installation Cost in SA
The cost of installing new electrical fixtures varies widely.
- Simple Replacement (like-for-like light fitting): R550 to R900.
- New Power Point (standard wiring): R800 to R1,500.
- Complex Installation (new circuit from DB board, e.g., for an oven or heavy-duty fan): R2,000 to R5,000+.Factors like high ceilings, regional labour rates (e.g., Cape Town vs. Polokwane), and the need for a CoC influence the final price. For a detailed breakdown, see our Electrician Cost Guide.
Installing New Electrical Outlets: Compliance is Key
Adding new plug points improves convenience, but you must choose the right type. Standard 16A sockets (the common three-prong Type M) are fine for most appliances, but ovens or geysers require dedicated high-amperage circuits. An electrician will ensure the installation is done according to SANS 10142-1 and issue a CoC for any new wiring.
Checklist: Before Your Electrician Arrives
To make the installation smoother and potentially save on labour time, follow this simple checklist:
- Clear the Area: Remove furniture, rugs, or obstacles from the work area.
- Have the Fixture Ready: Ensure your new light, fan, or outlet is on-site and unboxed.
- Know Your DB Board: Know the location of your distribution board.
- Plan for a Power Outage: The electrician will need to turn off the power, so ensure your devices are charged and you have a plan.
- Discuss Placement: Be ready to confirm the exact height and position of the new fixture with the electrician.
Post-Installation Care and Maintenance
Once installed, use your new fixtures safely. Do not overload new outlets with high-wattage appliances. If you hear buzzing, if an outlet feels warm, or if lights flicker constantly, switch off the circuit and call a professional immediately. In areas with unstable power grids like Johannesburg, consider installing surge protectors at your DB board to protect sensitive electronics.
Customer Stories and Results
The Meyers from Fourways needed to replace their old kitchen fluorescent light with modern LED downlights during a renovation. Their Kandua Pro mapped out a new lighting plan, ran new wiring through the ceiling, and installed a dimmer switch. The job was completed in a day, and the family was thrilled. "The lighting completely changed the room," said Mrs. Meyer. "Plus, the Certificate of Compliance gives us total peace of mind."
Anelisa from Somerset West needed a new plug point for an air conditioner and knew it required a dedicated circuit. Her Kandua Pro assessed the DB board, ran a new wire cleanly along the wall, and installed a high-amperage outlet. The work was efficient, and Anelisa now has a safe, reliable power source for her appliance, crucial for those hot Boland summers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a qualified electrician cost in South Africa?
A: Expect to pay an hourly rate of R450 to R850, plus a call-out fee which usually covers the first hour. Prices vary by city and the electrician's experience.
Q: What is the difference between a neutral, live, and earth wire?
A: The live wire (brown) carries current, the neutral wire (blue) completes the circuit, and the earth wire (green/yellow) is a safety feature that prevents electric shock in case of a fault.
Q: How do I know if an electrician is qualified?
A: Ask to see their wireman’s license and proof of registration with the Department of Labour. Reputable electricians are often members of bodies like the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA).
Q: Can I install an outdoor light fixture myself?
A: It's strongly discouraged. Outdoor fixtures require specific IP ratings to be weatherproof and must be correctly earthed to prevent shock, especially in coastal areas like Durban where salt air causes rapid corrosion. Always use a professional.
Q: What is a Certificate of Compliance (CoC)?
A: It is a legal document confirming that an electrical installation meets the safety standards of SANS 10142-1. You legally need one when selling your home or after any electrical alterations.
Q: How can I save money on an electrical installation?
A: Bundle multiple jobs into one visit to avoid separate call-out fees. You can also buy SABS-approved fixtures yourself, but always confirm their suitability with your electrician first.
Q: What are the main risks of DIY electrical installation?
A: The primary risks are electrocution, causing an electrical fire, damaging appliances, and voiding your homeowner's insurance. In South Africa, it is also illegal for anyone other than a registered electrician to perform most electrical work.
Why you can trust Kandua to get it right:
At Kandua, getting your home projects done is simple, safe, and stress-free.
Tell us what you need – Or let our smart AI Home Companion help diagnose your problem if you’re not sure where to start.
Get answers as you go – While posting your job, you can ask our smart AI home companion anything, from understanding typical costs, to how the process works, to how long it might take. Ask questions whenever they pop up, and get clear, helpful answers instantly.
We match you with the best – All our pros are 100% vetted: ID-verified, criminal background checked, certification verified, and maintaining at least a 4.5-star rating. You don’t have to worry about picking the right person, we make sure the pro we send has the right skills and certification to get your job done right.
With Kandua, you can rest easy knowing you’re in safe hands from the first click to the final handshake.
Electricians in South Africa: what to know before you book
Electrical issues have a way of starting small… and turning serious fast. A plug that “sometimes trips” can become a melted socket. Flickering lights can point to loose connections. And if your earth leakage keeps going off, it’s often your home telling you something isn’t right.
Kandua helps you get it sorted by matching you with a vetted electrician for your job — whether it’s a repair, installation, inspection, upgrade, or an urgent call-out.
A few quick answers (so you don’t have to scroll)
How do I choose a good electrician?
Pick someone who explains the cause (not just the symptom), tests before they replace parts, prices transparently, and can issue the right compliance paperwork when it’s required.
Do I need an Electrical Certificate of Compliance (CoC) in South Africa?
Often, yes — especially for property transfer and for any additions/alterations to an installation. The Department of Employment and Labour has also warned against “paper CoCs” issued without proper testing, and urges homeowners to use legally registered electrical contractors.
What should electrical work cost?
Most electricians charge a call-out fee + labour + materials, with higher rates for after-hours, complex fault finding, DB work, or urgent callouts. (There’s a pricing guide further down.)
What should I do first in an electrical emergency?
If it’s safe, switch off power at the main breaker, keep people away from the affected area (especially if there’s water), and call an electrician. If there’s smoke/fire risk, treat it as an emergency immediately.
Common electrical problems (and what they usually mean)
You don’t need to diagnose like an electrician — but it helps to know what the usual “signals” point to.
“My plugs keep tripping / the power keeps going off”
Often caused by an overloaded circuit, a faulty appliance, a loose connection, or a problem at the DB (distribution board). If it’s frequent, don’t just keep resetting — you want proper testing to prevent heat build-up and damage.
“My earth leakage trips randomly (especially at night or when it rains)”
This can indicate moisture ingress, a faulty appliance, deteriorating insulation, outdoor circuits taking on water, or an earthing/bonding issue. It’s common — and it’s exactly the sort of thing that needs systematic fault finding.
“My lights flicker / dim when I use appliances”
Sometimes it’s a supply issue — but it can also point to loose connections, voltage drop, an overloaded circuit, or a stressed neutral. If you’re noticing it across multiple rooms, get it checked.
“I smell burning / a plug is warm / there’s buzzing at the DB”
Treat this as urgent. Heat + electrics is how small problems become big ones. Switch off the circuit (or main breaker if you’re unsure) and book an electrician.
“I get a small shock/tingle from taps or appliances”
That can be an earthing/bonding fault and should be investigated quickly — especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and anywhere near water.
When it’s a DIY job — and when it isn’t
DIY can be fine for low-risk, non-electrical basics (like replacing a light bulb, resetting a tripped breaker once, or unplugging an appliance to test if it’s the cause).
Call an electrician when:
- a socket/switch is hot, crackling, discoloured, or smells burnt
- breakers/earth leakage keep tripping
- you suspect faulty wiring, water exposure, or a hidden issue
- you’re touching the DB, adding circuits, or upgrading capacity
- you’re installing high-load appliances (oven, hob, geyser, heat pump) or adding dedicated circuits
- you’re adding solar/inverter equipment or changing the installation layout
- you may need a CoC for compliance, insurance, or sale/transfer
Certifications, registrations & compliance in South Africa (what matters and when)
This is the part people usually discover too late. Here’s the simple version.
1) Electrical CoC (Certificate of Compliance)
A CoC is a legal document confirming an electrical installation has been inspected and tested and is compliant. It’s commonly required before property sale/transfer, and it’s also required when electrical work involves additions or alterations.
Also important: the Department of Employment and Labour explicitly warns that a registered contractor may only issue a CoC after proper inspection/testing, and may not issue on behalf of an unregistered person.
2) “Registered person” (who is actually allowed to certify)
In practice, certification is tied to being a properly registered/authorised person (often referred to as a wireman’s licence / registered person in the industry). If you need a CoC, ask upfront:
“Are you legally registered to inspect, test, and issue the CoC for this work?”
3) CoC validity (the part everyone argues about)
A useful way to think about it:
- For transfer purposes, the regulations are commonly applied as “not older than 2 years”.
- For day-to-day living, it remains relevant until changes are made — if you alter/add to the installation, you’ll typically need a supplementary CoC for that work.
4) Solar / inverter / PV additions (very common now)
If you’re adding solar PV or inverter equipment, treat it as a compliance-sensitive electrical project. Industry guidance stresses that PV work should be under the supervision of properly qualified electrical persons, and the City of Cape Town’s guidance notes you should request the original electrical CoC from the registered installation electrician.
Pricing: what to budget for an electrician in South Africa
Pricing varies by city, travel distance, urgency, and complexity — but most homeowners will see a familiar structure:
Typical cost structure
- Call-out fee (travel + initial assessment)
- Labour (hourly)
- Materials/parts
- After-hours premium (nights, weekends, public holidays)
- Specialist testing / fault finding time (often where the real value is)
Typical ranges you’ll see (guideline)
- Labour: roughly R350 – R700/hour for many standard jobs (average often around the mid-range), with higher rates for specialised work.
- Emergency call-out: often around R600 – R900 (and may or may not include the first hour — always ask).
A realistic “small job” expectation
Even when it sounds simple, budget for a call-out + 1–2 hours labour plus parts. If you have a few small fixes, bundling them into one visit often saves money.
10 Genuinely helpful electrician FAQ's
- What’s the difference between “the power tripped” and “earth leakage tripped”?
A normal breaker trip usually points to overload or a circuit fault. Earth leakage trips when it detects current leaking to earth (often moisture, insulation breakdown, or a faulty appliance). If earth leakage trips repeatedly, it needs proper fault finding. - How do I figure out if it’s my appliance or the house wiring?
A safe starting point is to unplug high-load appliances and see if the trip stops — but if trips continue (or you see heat/burning smells), stop testing and get an electrician. The correct method is measured testing, not guesswork. - Why does my plug socket feel warm?
Warmth can mean a loose connection, overload, poor contact, or damaged wiring — all of which can create heat and become dangerous. Book it in sooner rather than later. - My lights flicker when I use the kettle/microwave — is that normal?
Occasional minor dimming can happen, but persistent flickering/dimming can signal voltage drop, loose connections, overloaded circuits, or neutral issues. If it’s happening across rooms, get it checked. - Do I need a dedicated circuit for an oven/hob/geyser/heat pump?
Very often, yes — these are high-load items and are safer (and usually more reliable) with correct isolation and wiring sized for the load. An electrician should assess and advise based on your DB capacity. - What’s involved in a DB (distribution board) upgrade?
Typically: inspection of existing circuits, correcting unsafe/incorrect connections, adding/replacing breakers, ensuring earthing and bonding are correct, labelling circuits, and testing. DB work should be done carefully and properly documented. - Do I need a new CoC after renovations?
If the renovation involved electrical additions/alterations (new circuits, moved points, new DB work, solar/inverter additions), you’ll usually need a supplementary CoC for that work. - How long does a CoC take to issue?
It depends on how many defects are found. A proper CoC requires inspection and testing — if repairs are needed, it may take longer. Be wary of instant “paper CoCs” with no testing. - Does an electrical CoC cover everything in the house?
A CoC generally relates to the electrical installation and its safety/compliance (distribution, wiring, earthing, bonding, etc.). If you have specialised systems (like solar PV or an electric fence), ask what additional documentation is required for those. - What should I ask an electrician before they start?
Three questions cover most issues:
- “What do you think is the likely cause, and how will you test it?”
- “Is this priced as call-out + hourly + materials, and what counts as after-hours?”
- “Will this work require a CoC or supplementary CoC — and are you registered to issue it?”
.avif)
Here's what other clients are saying:
WhyuseKanduawhenyoubookaanElectrician
When you book through Kandua, you’re not just finding a pro – you’re getting a safer, simpler and more reliable way to sort out jobs around your home
.avif)
Your safety comes first
AI that understands your home problems
Only top rated, vetted Pros
Less admin, more peace of mind
SuggestedreadsaboutElectrical fixtures installation
.webp)
Adding Electrical Outlets in Your SA Home: Investing in Convenience and Safety with Professional Installation
Need more plug points? Learn why professional installation is essential for safely adding electrical outlets in South African homes - boosting convenience without risking faults or hazards.
.webp)
New Home Addition? The Non-Negotiable Role of Expert Electrical Installation in South Africa
Planning a home addition? Discover why expert electrical installation is essential in South Africa for safety, compliance, and reliable power—helping you avoid costly mistakes and serious electrical risks.
.webp)
Electrical Fixture Installation Cost in SA: Pricing Your New Lights, Fans & Power Points
Installing new electrical fixtures can instantly modernise a room, improve functionality, and enhance ambiance. This guide breaks down the costs for installing common fixtures like lights, fans, and power points across South Africa.
%2520(2).webp)
Electrician Hourly Rate in South Africa: A Comprehensive Cost Guide
When hiring an Electrician in South Africa, expect to pay a call-out/first-hour fee of roughly R650–R950, standard labour of about R400–R800 per hour, and higher after-hours/emergency pricing of about 1.5–2× the normal labour rate (or ~R900–R1,500+ per hour), plus materials and any access, repair, or compliance costs (like an Electrical CoC where required).