Emergency Electrician Cost: Call-Out Fees Explained
"How much will it cost?" is usually the first question when something goes wrong with the electrics, and it is a fair one. Prices vary between firms and between jobs, so rather than quote figures that will not apply to you, this guide explains what drives the cost and how to avoid being caught out.
What is a call-out fee?
A call-out fee is a charge for sending an electrician to your property. It is meant to cover travel, the time to attend and often the first stretch of diagnosis. Some firms include it in the final price. Others add it on top, which is where confusion starts. Always ask whether the call-out fee is separate from the repair price, and whether it is deducted if you go ahead with the work.
What affects the price of an emergency job
- The fault itself. Replacing a single faulty breaker is a very different job from tracing a fault through several circuits.
- Parts. A common part carried in the van costs less than something that has to be sourced.
- Time on site. Hidden faults take longer to find, especially in older properties.
- Access. Cables under floors or behind plaster take more effort to reach.
- Time of day. Some firms charge a premium for nights, weekends and bank holidays. Others, including us, do not.
Beware the "from" price
An advert that says "from" a low figure tells you very little. The real price depends on the fault. Ask for a quote for your specific problem, described over the phone, and ask what could make it change.
How to avoid surprise charges
- Ask for the full price up front, including call-out, labour and VAT if applicable.
- Ask about out-of-hours rates before you agree to anything.
- Check what is covered. Parts, certificates and testing should be clear, not optional extras.
- Get it in writing. A message or email confirming the price protects you both.
- Agree any extra work first. If the electrician finds something else, they should tell you and agree the cost before carrying on.
Is the cheapest quote the best?
Not necessarily. A very low price can mean an uninsured tradesperson, no certificate or a temporary fix that fails in a week. A fair price for a qualified, insured electrician who guarantees the work is better value than a bargain that has to be redone.
Our approach
We agree the price on the phone before anyone sets off, and it does not rise for nights, weekends or bank holidays. If a repair is only buying time, we say so. Details are on our rates page.
Want a price for your problem? Call 020 3411 2027 and describe the fault, and we will tell you where you stand before we come out.
