Plug Socket Replacement and Installation Cost

How much does it cost to replace or install a plug socket in the UK?

Replacing a plug socket typically costs around £75, including labour and materials. In most cases, a qualified electrician can use the existing wiring and back box, keeping costs down. Replacing just the socket front — for example, upgrading from white plastic to brushed steel — is a simpler job and can cost as little as £30 to £40 in labour.

Installing a new socket in a different location costs more, usually between £120 and £250, as it involves additional wiring and wall work. The final cost depends on factors such as the socket type, wall material, and the condition of your existing electrics.

• Cost to replace a plug socket: Around £75, including labour and materials.
• Cost to replace a socket front only: Around £30 to £40 in labour.
• New plug socket installation cost: Around £75 per socket.
• Adding a socket in a new location: Around £120 to £250.
• Single plug socket material cost: Around £10.
• Double plug socket material cost: Around £15.
• USB plug socket material cost: Around £15 to £25.
• Typical electrician labour cost per socket: Around £40.
• Typical installation time: 1 to 2 hours per socket.

If you are replacing an existing socket rather than installing a new one, the electrician may be able to complete the work faster because the existing wiring and back box are already in place.

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Read on to discover everything you need to know about plug socket installation and replacement costs.

How Much Does It Cost to Install or Replace a Plug Socket?

In many homes, installing a new plug socket and replacing an existing socket mean much the same thing. The electrician can often use the existing wiring and back box, so the cost of installing or replacing a socket is usually very similar.

The average cost of installing or replacing a plug socket is around £75. In most cases, labour costs are around £40, while material costs usually range from £10 to £25, depending on the socket type and finish.

The total cost can vary depending on the socket style, the condition of the existing wiring, and whether any additional electrical work is needed before the new socket can be fitted safely.

For example, a standard single socket will usually cost less than a double socket with USB charging or a decorative chrome or nickel finish.

However, this price can rise and fall based on the person you hire and the cost of the materials. A double plug socket with a USB outlet, for example, will cost far more than a standard single socket outlet.

Of course, the costs can differ greatly depending on the location of the plug socket. A socket on the wall in the place of an old socket will cost less than an entirely new socket installation.

It’s also important to note that the condition of your home electrics will play a part in the cost of the plug socket installation.

If you’re renovating an old home, some of the electrics may be outdated so you may need to pay for rewiring, so bear that in mind when looking for quotes.

Plug Socket Installation and Replacement Prices

Below is a table showing the average cost of installing or replacing common plug socket types:

Electrician Cost Per Socket

The typical electrician cost per socket is around £40 for labour on straightforward jobs, such as replacing an existing socket or fitting a new one in the same position using the existing wiring.

Once the cost of the socket itself is included, the total usually comes to around £50 to £65, as most standard sockets cost between £10 and £25. If multiple sockets are being installed in the same visit, the labour cost per socket may be lower as the electrician can work more efficiently.

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Cost to Replace a Plug Socket

Replacing an existing plug socket is usually more straightforward than installing a new one. Because the wiring and back box are already in place, a qualified electrician can often complete the work quickly, which helps keep labour costs down.

The typical cost to replace a plug socket is around £75, covering both labour and the price of the new socket. However, the exact cost will depend on the type of socket you choose and whether any issues with the existing wiring are found during the job.

Cost to Replace a Socket Front

If your wiring is in good condition and you simply want to update the look of your sockets — for example, swapping white plastic faceplates for brushed steel or chrome — replacing just the socket front is a quicker, lower-cost job.

A qualified electrician will typically charge around £30 to £40 in labour to replace a socket faceplate. This makes it a cost-effective way to refresh the look of a room without a full socket replacement.

Cost to Upgrade a Single Socket to a Double Socket

Upgrading a single socket to a double is one of the most common replacement jobs. In many cases, the electrician can use the existing wiring and simply fit a larger back box and double faceplate, keeping costs relatively low.

The typical cost to upgrade a single socket to a double is around £75 to £100, depending on the wall type and whether a new back box is needed. It's a practical upgrade that reduces the need for extension leads and helps future-proof the room.

Cost to Add a Plug Socket to a Room

Adding a plug socket to a room is different from installing or replacing a socket in an existing position. This type of job usually requires new wiring, a new socket box, and additional electrical work to connect the new socket safely to the existing circuit.

Because of the extra work involved, adding a plug socket to a new location typically costs between £120 and £250. The final price will depend on the distance from the existing wiring, the wall type, and how much additional wiring is required. It's also worth checking that your consumer unit has capacity for the extra load before work begins — a qualified electrician can advise on this.

For example, adding a socket next to an existing outlet may be quicker and cheaper, while installing one on the opposite side of the room or in a completely new location may require more extensive wiring and wall work.

Other factors that may affect the total cost include the socket type you choose, the condition of the existing electrics, and whether plastering or decorating is needed after the installation.

Additional Costs of Installing Plug Sockets

Installing or replacing a plug socket is usually a straightforward job, but there are still some additional costs that may arise depending on the work involved.

For example, adding a socket in a new location may require extra wiring or cutting into the wall, while upgrading to decorative sockets or smart features can increase the overall cost. You may also need follow-up work such as plastering or painting to repair the wall after the installation.

Below are some common additional costs that may be associated with plug socket installation or electrical upgrades:

Electrician Labour Costs for Installing Plug Sockets

Plug socket installation typically requires just 1 electrician, which helps keep labour costs relatively low compared to larger electrical jobs. For straightforward jobs such as a like-for-like replacement, most electricians charge a flat rate of around £40 per socket. For more complex work, electricians may charge an hourly rate of around £40 to £60 depending on location and experience.

Labour costs are usually quoted excluding the price of the sockets themselves. You can either supply the sockets yourself or ask the electrician to source them, though bear in mind that electricians often add a markup of around 20% to 25% on materials they purchase on your behalf.

Most jobs are straightforward, though delays can occur if the electrician identifies damaged wiring that needs attention before the new socket can be fitted safely.

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Factors That Affect Plug Socket Installation Cost

Several factors can affect the total cost of replacing or installing a plug socket. Understanding these can help you plan your budget and compare quotes more effectively.

• Type of socket. USB sockets and smart sockets are more complex to install than standard single or double sockets, which can increase both labour time and material costs.
• Number of sockets. Having multiple sockets installed in a single visit can reduce the labour cost per socket, as the electrician can work through the jobs more efficiently.
• Socket style and finish. Decorative finishes such as brushed steel, chrome, or brass cost more than standard white plastic sockets, which will affect the overall material cost.
• Additional wiring. Installing a socket in a new location requires additional wiring, and the cost will rise the further the new socket is from the existing circuit. Damaged wiring uncovered during the job will also add to the total.
• Consumer unit capacity. If your consumer unit is already running close to capacity, it may need upgrading before additional sockets can be added safely, which will increase the overall cost.
• Property location. Electricians in London and other large cities typically charge more than those in smaller towns. You can also expect to pay a premium for work carried out on weekends, bank holidays, or outside normal working hours.
• Wall type and access. Solid walls take longer to chase for new cables than stud walls, and difficult-to-access locations such as loft spaces or underfloor areas will add to labour time.

What's Involved in a New Plug Socket Installation?

We’re going to break this down into a step-by-step guide on what you can expect the electrician to do when installing a new plug socket.

1. Prepare the old socket, area and the wiring in the place you want your new socket installed. If there is an existing socket, this will be removed, and the wires disconnected. If it’s an entirely new socket, the wall will be hollowed for the socket to be placed.
2. Inspect the breaker box to ensure everything is in order, and in the case of a new socket, if there is space for another socket on the breaker box.
3. For a new plug socket (not in place of another old socket), wiring must be laid from the breaker box to the space where you want the socket.
4. The wiring will be connected to the new socket and attached to the wall with screws.
5. The new socket will be tested with a meter to ensure there is the correct amount of electricity moving through.

Types of Plug Sockets and Their Costs

We’re going to provide a pros and cons list for each of the plug sockets we explored earlier.

Black Nickel Plug Sockets Cost

• Best For: Stylish, luxury plug sockets
• Material Cost: £20-£30

Black nickel plug sockets have become very popular, offering a visually striking and luxurious finish. They are perfect if you want to add a touch of sophistication to your décor. With an abundance of retailers and materials, you can often find deals if you buy multiple sockets at once, although these will still cost more than standard plastic options.

Pros

• ✔ A sleek, smooth and dark design that are stunning additions to any room
• ✔ Can be found with smart home and USB port features
• ✔ Hard-wearing and need little, if any, maintenance

Cons

• ✖ Are higher on the price scale than others
• ✖ Any dents or scratches on the socket are noticeable

Chrome Plug Sockets Cost

• Best For: Bright, shiny plug sockets
• Material Cost: £15-£30

Chrome plug sockets remain a popular choice for their bright, reflective finish and classic appeal. They were once the go-to choice for décor and electrical fittings, and can still be found easily in stores or online. With a wide range of suppliers, you may also find bulk deals if replacing multiple sockets at the same time.

Pros

• ✔ A very popular choice in previous years
• ✔ Different styles available in abundance
• ✔ Available with smart home and USB port features

Cons

• ✖ The overtly shiny material can be off-putting to some
• ✖ Fairly expensive depending on the quality

Steel Plug Sockets Cost

• Best For: Balanced, durable plug sockets
• Material Cost: £10-£20

Steel plug sockets offer a practical and versatile option, bright but not overly shiny. Steel acts as a middle ground between dark nickel and shiny chrome, making it suitable for a wide range of rooms and styles. It’s widely available in shops and online, and buying multiple sockets at once can sometimes secure a discount.

Pros

• ✔ A bright design that fits well into many decors, without being overly shiny like chrome
• ✔ Very versatile as it looks just as at home in the living room as it does the kitchen
• ✔ Available with smart home and USB port features

Cons

• ✖ Much like other metal materials, it shows wear pretty easily
• ✖ Higher on the price scale than standard sockets

Brass Plug Sockets Cost

• Best For: Niche or traditional decors
• Material Cost: £25-£40

Brass sockets bring a distinctive, classic look and are ideal for specific décor styles. While not as commonly used as other types, they have been modernised for contemporary interiors. Like other socket types, buying multiple units at once can help reduce per-socket cost slightly, though brass remains the premium option.

Pros

• ✔ A niche design that will be perfect for certain styles
• ✔ Hard-wearing and doesn’t show wear easily
• ✔ Can be polished and maintained to extend its life expectancy

Cons

• ✖ Very expensive compared to other options
• ✖ Hard to find especially with smart home or USB features

Wooden Plug Sockets Cost

• Best For: Stylish, high-end interiors
• Material Cost: £30-£40

Wooden fronted plug sockets are slowly gaining popularity thanks to their elegant look and wide variety of designs and colours. They add a touch of class to any room and make a statement as part of your décor. While more expensive than standard options, buying multiple units at once can sometimes help reduce the overall cost.

Pros

• ✔ Unique, elegant design that enhances room décor
• ✔ Available in various finishes and colours to match interiors
• ✔ Can be fitted with USB ports

Cons

• ✖ Relatively expensive compared to other socket types
• ✖ Limited availability compared to plastic or metal sockets

Smart Plug Sockets Cost

• Best For: High-tech, connected homes
• Material Cost: £60+

Smart plug sockets represent the latest in home technology, allowing you to control appliances via apps like Amazon Alexa and Google Home. They offer convenience and energy management, letting you switch devices on or off remotely. The price varies depending on style, features, and material, but they are generally among the more expensive socket options.

Pros

• ✔ Enables remote control via mobile devices and smart home systems
• ✔ Can improve energy efficiency by turning off devices when not in use
• ✔ Often available with USB ports and multiple smart features

Cons

• ✖ Expensive compared to standard and decorative sockets
• ✖ May require setup and familiarity with smart home systems

Where Can I Install a Plug Socket?

Of course, you tend to find plug sockets in the same places almost everywhere you go. The classic areas are low in the corners of rooms, where people tend to place side tables and television units.

These places are popular for a reason - it’s where people need them. However, if you’re going to the effort of installing brand new sockets where there haven’t been any before, why not place them in the perfect places.

For example, if you’re going to mount your TV on a bracket to make it wall-mounted, why have trailing wires to the floor, when you can place a single socket port directly behind the TV?

If you’re going to have a grand office, complete with a desk in the centre of the room, why not place a plug socket on the floor directly below to avoid any trailing wires around the room.

You can also personalise the types of sockets you use, like placing sockets with USB ports next to where you’re going to sit easy for charging phones, e-readers and tablets, and a smart home socket where you have lamps, so you can control them from anywhere.

Cost of Removing a Plug Socket

If you’ve decided to install new plug sockets in different areas and deem your old one’s surplus to requirements, it’s best to have them removed and covered over by a plasterer.

Now, this can be done as a DIY project, but we’d only suggest this to someone that has previous experience with isolating electrics and removing them.

It may be a better option to have a licensed electrician carry out the work. The job is usually quick and labour costs are typically around £30 to £40 to remove a single socket.

Once they have been removed, you’d need to speak to a plasterer about covering up the gap left by the plug socket. For further information, check out our article on plastering prices.

Hiring Contractors to Install a Plug Socket Checklist

Below are some points to consider when hiring a qualified electrician.

• Are they a professional electrician? When hiring a tradesman to move an existing socket or to install completely new plug sockets, you should always hire a fully qualified electrician.
• Do they have the necessary insurance? If you are hiring a professional electrician, they are most likely to have at least public liability insurance to cover in the event of an accident or personal injury.
• Do they have positive reviews? Search online or visit their MyJobQuote profile and check any recent customer feedback and testimonials.
• Are they a member of any regulatory body? Membership in recognised industry bodies or consumer fairness organisations is a good sign that the firm operates professionally and ethically.
• Have you received multiple quotes? Whether it's replacing an existing socket, or fitting extra wiring and installing a new one, by shopping around for multiple quotes you can get an idea of what you should expect to pay.
• Are the quotes itemised? Even fitting a single socket requires a quote when you're having it done by a professional electrician. Likewise with more complicated electrical work, so with the help of MyJobQuote always ask for a detailed quote before saying yet.
• Are there any hidden extras? The overall cost of larger projects could involve anything from replacing a fuse box to upgrading to include USB sockets or even replacing all the wiring, so ensure you know exactly what's involved.
• Do they provide any guarantees You will want to know how long a plug socket installation is likely to take, but also what happens in the event of any issues, such as an electrical safety hazard once the work is completed.

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