Switchboard upgrade
A switchboard upgrade is priced on the board you have, the supply in the street and whether other work is happening at the same time. Solar, an induction cooktop or a home charger often force the conversation. This page does not publish a price.
The useful quote names the new board, what safety switches are included, and whether the distributor has to attend. Those items change the day, not just the parts.
This guide does not publish a dollar figure. We only print a price when a government agency, industry body or manufacturer has published a rate we can link to. Use the factors and the questions when you compare quotes.
What changes the price
- What is there now. Ceramic fuses, a full board, or a board with no spare ways are different starting points. Ask the electrician to say which one they priced.
- What you are adding. Solar, a big appliance or a charger can need spare capacity. Price the board for the work you are actually doing.
- Supply upgrade. If the connection from the street has to change, the distributor's work may be a separate appointment and a separate charge.
- Safety devices. Ask which circuits get safety switches and surge protection, and which are left as they are.
- Access and asbestos. Old boards and old lining boards sometimes involve asbestos. If the electrician flags it, stop and leave the material alone. A licensed removalist is the safer choice even where a small amount of bonded sheet may be removed without a licence. The asbestos guide sets out the classes and the ACT exception.
Questions to ask
- What exactly is being replaced, and what is reused?
- How many spare ways are on the new board?
- Is a supply upgrade included, or is that a distributor job?
- Which circuits get safety switches?
- Will the power be off, and for how long?
- Are you licensed for this electrical work in this state or territory?
Common questions
Can I get a price from the photos?
Photos help, but the electrician still has to see the board, the earthing and the supply. Treat a photo estimate as a starting point.
Does solar include a new switchboard?
Not always. Ask the solar quote to say whether switchboard work is inside the price or extra.