| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Austin licensed electrician about $75 to $150 per hour |
| Time | Panel upgrade often done in 1 day |
| Who's qualified | Texas-licensed electrical contractor, City of Austin registered |
Why does a license matter for Austin electrical work?
In Texas, anyone who performs electrical work must be licensed under Chapter 1305 of the Occupations Code. Work must be done through a licensed electrical contractor. Unlicensed work is not allowed.
Do I need a permit for my electrical job in Austin?
Austin requires electrical permits for new circuits, panel upgrades or replacements, service changes, EV charger installs, solar PV electrical work, and rewiring. The city issues permits only to a contractor licensed for that scope and registered with the City. Permit fees are often about $40 to $200 for residential projects.
What insurance should an electrical contractor carry?
Texas electrical contractor licenses require business liability insurance. Minimum limits are $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate, and $300,000 aggregate for products and completed operations. Ask the pro for proof before work begins.
What does common electrical work cost in Austin?
Outlet or switch replacement typically costs $100 to $250. Ceiling fan installation runs $175 to $400. A 200-amp panel upgrade costs $1,500 to $3,500, and a Level 2 EV charger installation costs $1,200 to $2,500.
What to do next
- Confirm the contractor's Texas electrical contractor license and City of Austin registration before you hire.
- Ask the pro for proof of business liability insurance with at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
- Request a written quote that lists the permit fee, the hourly rate or service-call fee, and the job's completion time.
- Confirm the pro will pull the required Austin electrical permit before work starts.
- 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.
