Adding a New Socket Cost & Prices 2023

There are many reasons you may need a new socket. Multiple plugs from one socket or multi sockets can be dangerous and overload circuits, existing sockets may be old and need replacing, or it may be that you’re just changing a room layout for example.

Ultimately, adding a new socket is a good idea to ensure you can get power where you need it.

This article will cover what you can expect to pay for a new socket as well as factors that can affect the cost.

Average Installation Cost 

We contacted 53 electricians for quotes to install one new plug socket including labour and materials. Prices exclude VAT.

Cost	Average	Typical Range
New Single Plug Socket	£100	£60 - £160
New Double Plug Socket	£115	£70 - £190
Installing USB Plug Socket	£130	£80 - £200

Generally, each socket charged after the initial one will be less. Expect to pay £65 extra for every additional socket installed.

Factors That Affect the Cost

Although the prices are pretty standard for installing a new socket, there are important factors that an electrician needs to consider before offering a definitive quote.

If they can’t visit your home first, you can often send them a few pictures of the proposed area so they have an idea of the layout and potential issues.

State of Circuit 

Additional sockets may cause issues if your fuse box or consumer unit can not cope with the additional load. An electrician will be able to advise further.

If there is no RCD protection present then that will need to be installed. BS 7671 wiring regulations state all new sockets installed require additional RCD protection.

This is needed so that an electrical safety certificate can be issued upon completion.

Proximity to Nearest Suitable Power Source

An electrician will need to know how easy it is to get a cable to the new socket.

Usually, the easiest way to do it is if there is a socket in another room back to back with where you would like the new socket. If it is further away from the cables, then extra wiring is needed and this will increase the cost.

Moving a socket a short distance can often be cheaper than adding a new one. This is because existing wiring can be used instead.

Type of Socket

Electricians will usually quote for standard white sockets.

Black nickel, polished chrome, brushed steel and other styles will cost more. Metal sockets must also be earthed, which adds extra cost.

There are a variety of styles and colours, so choose something that matches the decor.

Plug sockets come in different colours and styles so choose the one that best matches your needs and decor.

Floors & Walls Types

Generally, the prices quoted are based on the fact the carpets are up and there is access under the floorboards.

If floorboards need to be lifted, there may be an extra charge.

Depending on where the new socket is placed, the construction of the wall will play a role, i.e brick and plaster vs plasterboard.

Also be sure to check if your electrician will use a plasterer to repair the walls after the work has been completed, or if you will need to do this.

Location

Labour costs in London and the south of England are generally more expensive than elsewhere.

If the contractor needs to travel beyond a certain radius, then they may add an extra fee on top. Unless you live in a very rural location or want to use an electrician that operates further afield, you shouldn’t need to pay extra.

Get Pricing on Adding a New Socket Near You

We’ve done our best to give you a good idea of what you can expect to pay to install a new socket

However, our guides are not a substitute for a fixed quote specifically for you.

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