| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Outlet or switch repair: $150–$300 |
| Time | Callback within the hour, Mon–Fri 8am–6pm CT |
| Who's qualified | Texas-licensed electrician with proof of insurance |
What should I do right now while the kitchen is without power?
Unplug appliances and turn off most lights so circuits are not overloaded when power returns. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed, since an unopened fridge generally keeps food cold for about 4 hours and a full freezer about 48 hours. Check the Austin Energy Outage Map to see whether the outage is widespread or limited to your home.
Is the problem inside my home or with the utility?
Check whether neighbors also lost power, and view outages on the Austin Energy Outage Map. Austin Energy serves many addresses, but some homes are served by another utility, so confirm your provider's outage resources. A local pro can usually only help the same day if the problem is inside the home.
What should I check before hiring an electrician?
Texas requires anyone performing electrical work to be licensed. Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance, and verify it on the TDLR licence search. Electrical contractor licenses require business liability insurance of at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
Do repairs need a permit in Austin?
Austin requires a permit before electrical installation, alteration, repair or replacement unless a specific exemption applies. Permits may only be issued to a licensed electrical contractor registered with the City, or to a homeowner who qualifies for a Homestead Permit. Residential electrical permits commonly range from about $50 to $300.
What to do next
- Check the Austin Energy Outage Map and confirm whether the outage is inside your home or area-wide.
- Unplug sensitive appliances and turn off most lights before power is restored.
- Verify the electrician's Texas license on the TDLR website and ask for a certificate of insurance showing $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
- Ask the quote to list the permit needed, the permit fee (about $50–$300), and whether the work will be inspected.
- Call (737) 367-2100 or email [email protected] for a free quote from a licensed, insured electrician.
Austin Volts is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
