Electricians can provide various services and assist with many home projects. Here are some of the most common projects that require an electrician: 

• Ceiling fan installation

• Generator repair

• Light installation and repair

• Wiring installation and repair

• Switch and outlet installation and repair

• Upgrading electrical panels

• Circuit breaker panel or fuse box installation and repair

• Installing electrical vehicle charging stations

• Smart home installation and repairs

On average, electrician hourly rates range from $75-$95* per hour for electrical and wiring repair services. This reflects the national average cost, so it’s important to note that pricing will fluctuate based on where you live. Other cost factors include the electrician’s expertise and the details of your project.  

*Please note that all pricing represents the national average cost of electrical and wiring repair services for a home and is subject to change at any time. Request a quote from a local professional to receive a personalized cost estimate.

It’s important to always hire an electrician licensed in your state. You can verify an electrician’s license by visiting your state’s licensing board and looking up their full name, business name, and/or license number. Ensure their license is still active and valid, and watch out for red flags (like too many complaints).

In addition to verifying their license, do the following before hiring an electrician:

• Read their customer reviews

• Ask for referrals or references

• Get written price quotes from several professionals 

• Find out if they offer warranties for their work

Hire a professional electrician if you experience any of these common issues and electrical hazards:

• Faulty wiring and switches

• Exposed wiring

• Dead electrical outlets

• Frequent power outages

• Generator not working

• Flickering lights

• Burning odors

• Improper installation of ceiling fans or lighting

• Circuit breakers that trip frequently

Electricians in your area may offer 24-hour emergency services, but their availability may vary. You’ll need to contact pros in your area and ask about their rates and response times.

Complete the following steps before an electrician arrives at your home:

• Give the electrician details about the problem. Describe the issue in detail. Explain to them what you see, hear, and even smell. 

• Remove obstacles and obstructions from the work site. Ensure the electrician has a clutter-free area to work, and that they can easily access your electrical system components. 

• Keep pets and children away. This will help ensure their safety and allow the electrician to focus on their work without distractions. 

Avoid DIY-ing any electrical work to ensure your safety. Instead, hire a licensed electrician. Electrical projects contain many hazards, including electrical fires and shocks. A licensed professional has the proper safety equipment and the expertise to help prevent damage and injuries when performing repairs. 

An electrical repair or installation can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. Here’s how long it takes to complete these common electrical home projects, according to our pros:

• Install new lighting: 1.5 hours

• Install a ceiling fan: 1-3 hours

• Install switches and outlets: 2 hours

• Fix exposed wiring: 1-2 hours

• Rewire a house: 3-5 days

• Install an electrical vehicle charger: 1-3 hours

• Repair a circuit break: 30 minutes

• Install a new fuse box: 4-6 hours

Keep in mind that the time it takes to complete your electrical project will vary depending on many factors, including the scope and difficulty of the project. 

Some electricians can handle residential and commercial projects. However, it’s important to verify the electrician’s expertise and specialties before hiring one. 

Always ask these important questions before hiring an electrician for your project:

1. Are you licensed in this state?

2. Do you have experience with my electrical project?

3. How much do you charge for my project? What are the labor, materials, and equipment costs?

4. Do you offer warranties or guarantees for your work?

5. Will I be able to contact you in case of an electrical emergency? If not, who should I contact?

6. How long will the repair or installation take to complete?

7. When can you begin working on my project?

8. Is there any preparation I should do before you arrive at my home and start the project?