Switchboard upgrade: costs and options
Understand costs and checks before replacing an old domestic switchboard.
What shapes the cost?
Number of circuits, switch location, safety devices and existing faults.
Compare identical scopes before choosing a contractor. Ask which preparatory work, materials, disposal, GST and site access requirements the quote includes.
Build your budget
Adjust the quantities and unit rates. This is a planning tool, not an installer quote.
Whole switchboard job, based on the middle half of marketplace quotes. Confirm the included circuits, testing, repairs, attendance and GST before using this as your project budget.
Service.com.au 2026: typical quoted switchboard upgrade range. ↗
These are general Australia-wide starting figures from a dated cost guide, not a quote. Confirm local scope, labour, GST and any call-out charges before relying on the estimate.
Plan for more than the enclosure
Check the reasons for upgrading
Capacity constraints, safety-switch requirements and condition of existing wiring may each drive different scopes. A quote should specify what has been assessed.
Check inclusions
Confirm the supply authority requirements, testing, labelling and any meter or mains work. Larger issues can make a published starting range unsuitable.
Ask for written scope
A licensed electrician should identify whether inspection or compliance issues could require additional work before the job begins.
Ask before you accept a quote.
- Does the scope include testing, compliance paperwork and supply coordination?
- Is GST included, and is the price fixed or estimated?
- Are removal, disposal, access and making-good included?
- What changes would trigger extra costs, and who approves them?
- What is the warranty on products and workmanship?
Fixed electrical installations require a properly licensed electrician. Do not undertake DIY work on power points, switches, wiring or hardwired equipment.
Compare the same job, not just the price.
Record itemised inclusions from at least two quotes, then evaluate differences in quality, warranty, timing and exclusions.
Compare quotes ↗