Key Takeaways
- Different types of electric work vary significantly in duration depending on complexity, access, and regulatory checks.
- Small electrical tasks may be completed within hours, while major upgrades or rewiring can span several days.
- A licensed electrician in the city-state typically allocates additional time for testing, safety checks, and compliance.
- Rushed electric work often leads to repeat faults, safety risks, or regulatory issues later.
Homeowners and businesses often underestimate how long electrical tasks actually take. This approach leads to unrealistic expectations, scheduling conflicts with renovation work, or pressure placed on contractors to rush jobs that should not be rushed. Electric work is not only about installing or fixing components; it also involves inspection, load assessment, testing, and compliance with local standards. Knowing the typical timeframes helps property owners plan better and make informed decisions when engaging an electrician in Singapore.
Minor Electrical Repairs and Replacements
Simple electric work, such as replacing power points, light switches, ceiling lights, or faulty sockets, usually takes between 30 minutes to two hours per item. These tasks appear quick because they often reuse existing wiring routes and distribution points. However, even for minor jobs, a qualified electrician will spend time isolating circuits, checking for hidden faults, and testing after installation. Once multiple minor tasks are bundled together, total time increases proportionately, especially in older properties where wiring conditions are unpredictable.
Installation of New Electrical Points and Fixtures
Installing new power points, lighting fixtures, or data points where none previously existed generally takes two to four hours per point. This type of electric work involves running new cables, creating access through walls or ceilings, and ensuring load capacity is sufficient. Access limitations in finished homes may add time due to careful routing to minimise damage. However, in renovation settings, this work is faster because conduits and trunking are often already exposed. The difference in environment is one of the biggest factors affecting duration.
Electrical Load Upgrades and Circuit Modifications
Upgrading circuits to support high-load appliances such as ovens, air-conditioning units, or EV chargers is more time-intensive. These jobs typically take half a day to a full day. The electrician must assess the existing distribution board, calculate load requirements, install dedicated circuits, and carry out safety tests. Coordination with SP Group or building management is required in some cases, which may extend timelines. This type of electric work cannot be rushed without compromising safety or compliance.
Rewiring Works for Older Properties
Full or partial rewiring is among the most time-consuming electrical tasks. Rewiring for HDB flats, condos, or landed homes with ageing wiring usually takes two to five days, depending on property size and layout. This electrical work involves removing old cables, installing new wiring, replacing distribution boards, and testing every circuit. Additional time is often needed for wall reinstatement and coordination with other trades. While it may seem excessive, thorough rewiring significantly reduces long-term electrical risks.
Commercial and Industrial Electrical Work
Commercial electric work generally takes longer due to scale, regulatory requirements, and system complexity. Installing lighting systems, power distribution, or emergency systems in offices, retail units, or industrial spaces can range from several days to several weeks. An electrician working on commercial projects must factor in inspections, load balancing, redundancy planning, and documentation. Downtime planning also affects scheduling, especially for businesses that must remain operational during upgrades.
Testing, Inspection, and Compliance Time
Regardless of job size, professional electric work includes testing and verification. This step alone can take from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the system. Insulation resistance tests, continuity checks, and load verification are not optional. These steps ensure the work meets safety standards and protects occupants. Clients often overlook this phase, but it is critical and should always be included in the overall timeline.
Conclusion
The time required for electric work depends less on visible tasks and more on what happens behind the walls and distribution boards. Minor repairs may be quick, but upgrades, rewiring, and compliance-related tasks demand careful execution. Engaging a qualified electrician in the city-state ensures that time is spent where it matters—on safety, reliability, and long-term performance. Knowing realistic timelines allows property owners to plan properly and avoid shortcuts that often lead to future electrical problems.
Contact 81 Electrical to gain clarity on how long your electrical job will take.
