When the lights go out, the fuse box starts sparking, or the sockets begin to emit a burning smell, there’s no time to waste. Electrical emergencies can be not just inconvenient but potentially life-threatening. That’s where emergency electricians come in — trained professionals ready to respond at any time of day or night. But How much does an emergency electrician cost in the UK?
In 2025, with the cost of living still rising and tradesperson demand at an all-time high, many homeowners are left wondering whether emergency electrician fees are reasonable — or if they’re being overcharged in a moment of panic.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay, what factors influence the price, and how to avoid getting stung by hidden charges.
⚡ What Counts as an Electrical Emergency?
Not every issue with your wiring or fuse box is a true emergency — and knowing the difference can save you a lot of money.
Legitimate emergencies typically include:
Complete power loss in your home (not a power cut affecting your area)
Sparking wires or sockets
Smoke or burning smells from electrical fittings
Repeated fuse tripping
Electric shocks from appliances
Water damage affecting wiring or fuse boards
Alarm system or life-supporting electrical device failure
If you experience any of the above, it’s essential to call a qualified emergency electrician — not just for convenience, but for your safety.
Average Emergency Electrician Costs in the UK (2025)
The cost of hiring an emergency electrician in the UK varies significantly depending on:
Time of day
Day of the week
Your location
Severity of the issue
Here’s a rough guide:
| Time / Situation | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Weekday (9am–5pm) | £80 – £120 per hour |
| Weekday evenings (after 6pm) | £100 – £150 per hour |
| Weekends (daytime) | £120 – £180 per hour |
| Night call-out (10pm–6am) | £150 – £250 per hour |
| Bank holidays / Christmas / NYE | £200 – £300+ per hour |
| Emergency call-out fee (flat rate) | £50 – £100 |
Note: Many electricians charge a minimum 1-hour rate, even if the job takes 20 minutes.
️ Regional Variations in Cost
Just like rent and fuel, electrician fees differ across the UK. For example:
London & South East: Highest rates due to demand and cost of living. Emergency calls can exceed £250/hour.
Midlands & North West: More affordable, with emergency rates ranging £100–£150/hour.
Scotland & Wales: Slightly lower than UK average, but rural areas may incur travel surcharges.
Northern Ireland: Competitive rates, typically between £80–£130/hour.
Travel distance, traffic, and availability also play a role, especially in remote or rural locations.
What Influences the Cost?
Here are key factors that impact your final bill:
Time and Day – Unsurprisingly, after-hours and holiday callouts cost more.
Nature of the Job – A blown fuse costs far less than rewiring a fire-damaged consumer unit.
Parts and Repairs Needed – Replacement of sockets, cables, or fuse boards adds to the price.
Access to the Fault – Jobs in hard-to-reach areas may take longer and cost more.
Qualifications and Experience – Master electricians or NICEIC-registered professionals may charge more.
What’s Included in an Emergency Electrician Call-Out?
Most emergency call-outs include:
A visit to your home, often within 1–2 hours
Initial inspection and diagnosis
Basic repairs or securing of the electrical system
Safety recommendations
However, replacement parts or additional labour may cost extra.
️ Hidden Fees to Watch Out For
Some electricians or companies may add unexpected charges to your bill. Watch for:
Emergency surcharge (flat fee on top of hourly rate)
Travel charge for properties far from their base
Parts mark-up on items like circuit breakers or sockets
VAT if not already included
Diagnostic-only visits where no repair is done
Tip: Always ask for a full breakdown or a fixed quote before confirming the call-out.
Domestic vs Commercial Emergency Electricians
Commercial properties (e.g., restaurants, warehouses) may face higher emergency rates than domestic homes due to the complexity and scale of electrical systems.
Domestic: £80–£180/hour (standard range)
Commercial: £120–£250+/hour
If your business relies heavily on electricity, it’s worth exploring maintenance contracts or 24/7 service agreements to reduce emergency costs.
How to Avoid Overpaying
Even during an emergency, you have a right to fair pricing. Here are a few simple ways to protect yourself:
Get Multiple Quotes – Use platforms like Checkatrade, TrustATrader, Get A Tradesman, Smart Home Improvement People or Rated People.
Ask for Credentials – Always check if they’re NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA registered.
Check Reviews – Google, Trustpilot, or Facebook can reveal a lot about reliability.
Request a Price Estimate – Even in emergencies, they should give you a rough cost.
Avoid Cash-Only Operators – Always request an invoice or receipt.
Is It Covered by Insurance or a Service Plan?
Some home insurance policies — particularly those with home emergency cover — include electrician call-outs. Before paying out of pocket:
Check your home insurance documents
Review any landlord coverage (if renting)
Consider monthly emergency cover plans (£10–£20/month)
Having the right cover can save you hundreds during an unexpected outage.
When Not to DIY
It’s tempting to flip a breaker or fiddle with the fuse box, but DIY electrical work — especially during an emergency — is dangerous and potentially illegal under UK building regulations.
You should never attempt to:
Rewire sockets or light fixtures
Access fuse boards or consumer units
Repair exposed wiring
Use makeshift extension setups after a fault
Always leave electrical emergencies to certified professionals.
Finding a Reputable Emergency Electrician Near You
Here’s where to find trusted electricians:
Ensure they are:
Fully qualified and insured
Responsive and able to attend within 1–2 hours
Transparent about fees and surcharges
Final Thoughts: What You Should Expect to Pay
In summary, the average emergency electrician cost in the UK falls between £100 and £250 per hour, depending on when and where you need the service.
While it’s always stressful dealing with electrical faults, understanding the typical pricing structure can help you stay calm, ask the right questions, and avoid being taken advantage of.
Your safety is worth the call — just make sure you’re calling the right person.
