what do most electricians charge per hour in peterborough?

When it comes to hiring an electrician in Peterborough, Ontario, one of the first questions homeowners often ask is:

"What do most electricians charge per hour?"

In Peterborough, Ontario, the hourly rate for a licensed electrician typically ranges between $70 and $120. Several factors can influence this rate, including the electrician’s experience, the complexity of the job, and whether it’s an emergency service or scheduled during regular business hours.

Here’s what you need to know about typical hourly rates and why it’s crucial to prioritize quality and reliability.

• Experience and Expertise: More experienced electricians or those with specialized skills may charge higher rates.
• Job Complexity: Simple tasks like installing a light fixture will cost less than more complex jobs like rewiring a home or upgrading an electrical panel.
• Emergency Services: If you need an electrician outside of normal working hours, you can expect to pay a premium.

Why the Cheapest Option Isn’t Always the Best

While it might be tempting to go with the lowest quote, hiring the cheapest electrical contractor can lead to more problems down the line. Here’s why:

1. Quality of Workmanship: Lower rates can sometimes mean less experienced or less skilled electricians. Poor workmanship can result in incomplete or incorrect installations, leading to potential safety hazards and future repair costs.

2. Safety Concerns: Electrical work is inherently dangerous. Licensed electrical pros adhere to stringent safety standards and building codes set by the City of Peterborough, the province of Ontario and the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). Cutting corners to save money can compromise the safety of your home and its occupants.

3. Reliability and Accountability: Professional electricians who charge fair rates often provide warranties for their work and are more likely to be responsive and reliable. If something goes wrong, they will address the issue promptly.

4. Proper Licensing and Insurance: Reputable electricians carry the necessary licenses and insurance, protecting you from liability in case of accidents or damage.  Did you know?  In Ontario, a handyman or contractor cannot perform any electrical work in your home unless they are under a licensed electrical contracting company.

***Tip: be sure to ask for the company's ECRA/ESA licence number before any work is started.

5. Long-Term Savings: Investing in quality electrical work can save you money in the long run. Proper installations and electrical repairs are less likely to need frequent fixes, thus reducing overall maintenance costs.


A Cautionary Tale: When Cheap Costs More

Consider the story of Sarah, a homeowner in Peterborough who decided to hire the cheapest electrical contractor she could find to rewire her basement. The contractor's quote was significantly lower than the others, and Sarah thought she was getting a great deal. However, soon after the job was completed, Sarah started experiencing frequent power outages and flickering lights.

Upon further inspection by a reputable electrician, it was discovered that the initial work was poorly executed with substandard materials, posing a significant fire hazard. Sarah ended up paying much more than she originally saved to have the entire job redone properly, not to mention the added stress and inconvenience.


When hiring an electrician in Peterborough, it’s essential to look beyond the hourly rate. While understanding typical costs is important, you need to go beyond the surface level quote and priotize safety and quality. Don’t compromise on the integrity of your home’s electrical systems—choose a trusted, ECRA/ESA licensed electrical contractor who stands behind their work.