How much does it cost to hire electrician to add one extra outlet on existing circuit?

Adding a single outlet to an existing circuit in Ottawa typically costs $150 – $350, depending on how accessible the wall is and how far the new outlet needs to be from the nearest existing one.

The biggest variable in this job is labour, not materials. The outlet itself and a few feet of wire cost under $20. What you're paying for is the electrician's time to fish wire through your walls, cut the box opening, make the connections safely, and restore the drywall opening neatly. If your walls are open (unfinished basement, garage) the job is straightforward and lands at the lower end. Finished drywall walls — especially on upper floors — take longer to fish wire through and can push the cost higher.

Permit requirements are worth understanding here. In Ontario, adding a new outlet (even on an existing circuit) technically requires an ESA permit if it involves new wiring. In practice, many homeowners don't realize this, but a licensed electrician will advise you on whether your specific situation requires one. ESA permit fees for minor work typically run $100 – $200, which may or may not be included in the quote — always ask upfront.

A few things that can increase the cost:

• Finished walls requiring drywall patching (add $50 – $150)
• Long wire runs to reach the nearest junction point
• Your existing circuit being already near capacity (the electrician may recommend a dedicated circuit instead, which runs $300 – $600)
• Older wiring like knob and tube or aluminum, which complicates any additions

On the safety side, this is not a DIY job in Ontario. Homeowners are not permitted to do their own wiring under the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, and unpermitted electrical work can void your home insurance and cause problems when you sell. The good news is this is one of the faster, more affordable electrical jobs — most electricians can knock it out in an hour or two.

If you want a firm number for your specific situation, Electrical Ottawa can connect you with ESA-licensed electricians from the Ottawa Construction Network for a free, no-obligation quote.

---

Find a Licensed Electrician

Electrical Ottawa connects you with vetted, ESA-licensed electricians from the Ottawa Construction Network:

• Capital Electrical Solutions ✓
• Ottawa Solar Power ✓
• TC Electric ✓
• Green Star Power Inc ✓
• Generator Ottawa Services ✓

View all electrical contractors →