From Socket Fixes to Full Installations—What You Need to Know Before You Hire

In Kenya, electricians are the unsung heroes of modern comfort. Whether you’re wiring a new home in Syokimau, upgrading a short-stay in Kisumu, or managing a school in Machakos, verified electrical services ensure safety, functionality, and peace of mind. This guide breaks down real costs, service types, regional trends, and how to hire trusted electricians through Balozy.

💰 National Snapshot: Electrician Service Costs in Kenya (2025)

Service Type Cost Range (KES) Notes
Socket or Switch Installation 300–800 per unit Includes labor and basic materials
Light Fixture Installation 500–2,000 per unit Depends on fixture type
Full House Wiring (2–3 bedroom) 80,000–250,000 Includes labor, cabling, fittings
Electrical Inspection & Audit 2,000–10,000 Safety check, load analysis
Circuit Breaker Replacement 1,500–5,000 Includes parts and labor
Generator Installation 10,000–50,000 Includes transfer switch
Solar Integration Wiring 15,000–80,000 Depends on system size
Emergency Call-Out 1,000–3,000 extra Same-day or night service
Commercial Wiring (per sqm) 1,500–4,000/sqm Offices, shops, schools
Smart Home Setup 20,000–100,000+ Includes automation, sensors

Source: , ,

🏙️ City-by-City Breakdown

1. Nairobi

Kenya’s electrical hub—home to smart homes, corporate offices, and high-rise installations.

  • Full House Wiring (e.g., Kilimani, Syokimau):
    • KSh 100,000–250,000 for 2–4 bedroom homes
    • Includes cabling, sockets, switches, DB board
  • Smart Home Setup:
    • KSh 30,000–100,000+
    • Includes motion sensors, remote lighting, automation
  • Emergency Repairs:
    • KSh 1,500–3,000 extra
    • Available 24/7 in most estates

Balozy Tip: Nairobi electricians often offer load audits—ask for KPLC compliance and energy-saving tips.

2. Machakos

Affordable and responsive—Machakos electricians serve estates, schools, and short-stay properties.

  • Socket & Switch Installation (e.g., Mlolongo, Athi River):
    • KSh 300–800 per unit
    • Includes labor and basic fittings
  • Generator Setup:
    • KSh 15,000–40,000
    • Includes transfer switch and safety grounding
  • School Wiring Projects:
    • KSh 1,500–3,000/sqm
    • Includes classrooms, admin blocks, and labs

Balozy Tip: Many Machakos electricians offer phased wiring—perfect for budget-conscious builds.

3. Mombasa

Coastal wiring requires salt-resistant materials and humidity-aware installation.

  • Light Fixture Installation (e.g., Nyali, Bamburi):
    • KSh 800–2,000 per unit
    • Includes corrosion-resistant fittings
  • Solar Integration Wiring:
    • KSh 20,000–80,000
    • Includes inverter, battery, and load balancing
  • Commercial Wiring (shops, cafés):
    • KSh 2,000–4,000/sqm
    • Includes signage, lighting, sockets

Balozy Tip: Ask for coastal-experienced electricians—humidity affects cable insulation and fixture lifespan.

4. Kisumu

Lake-side electricians focus on surge protection, seasonal reliability, and cultural etiquette.

  • Circuit Breaker Replacement (e.g., Milimani, Manyatta):
    • KSh 1,500–4,000
    • Includes parts and labor
  • Electrical Inspection:
    • KSh 2,000–8,000
    • Ideal for short-stay hosts and schools
  • Solar Wiring for Airbnb Units:
    • KSh 15,000–50,000
    • Includes backup and guest safety

Balozy Tip: Ask for surge-protected setups—especially during rainy seasons and power fluctuations.

5. Eldoret

Known for spacious homes and farm-friendly electrical setups.

  • Farmhouse Wiring (e.g., Elgon View):
    • KSh 80,000–200,000
    • Includes compound lighting, water pump circuits
  • Generator Installation:
    • KSh 20,000–50,000
    • Includes transfer switch and grounding
  • School or Hostel Wiring:
    • KSh 1,500–3,000/sqm
    • Includes dorms, kitchens, and safety signage

Balozy Tip: Eldoret electricians often offer rural packages—ask for generator-friendly wiring and durable fittings.

🔌 What’s Included in Electrician Services?

Service Element Included? Notes
Site Visit & Diagnosis Load analysis, fault tracing
Wiring & Cabling Includes trunking, conduits
Socket & Switch Setup Includes labor and basic fittings
DB Board Installation Distribution board and breakers
Safety Grounding Earth rod, bonding
Surge Protection ✅/❌ Optional or bundled
KPLC Compliance ✅/❌ Available for full wiring jobs
Solar Integration ✅/❌ Optional add-on
Smart Home Setup ✅/❌ Includes sensors, automation
Warranty & Support 3–12 months depending on job

Balozy Tip: Always confirm certification, warranty, and safety compliance before booking.

🧠 What Affects Electrician Costs?

✅ Scope of Work

  • Full wiring costs more than socket fixes
  • Smart setups and solar integration add complexity

✅ Location

  • Nairobi and Mombasa rates are higher
  • Transport to rural areas adds KSh 500–2,000

✅ Material Quality

  • Premium cables, switches, and fixtures raise costs
  • Local brands offer savings but may vary in durability

✅ Urgency

  • Emergency or weekend repairs include surcharges

✅ Technician Experience

  • Verified electricians charge more for safety and reliability
  • Unverified crews may underquote and delay

💡 Smart Ways to Save on Electrical Work

  1. Use Verified Balozy Electricians: Compare ratings, licenses, and past projects
  2. Bundle Services: Combine wiring, lighting, and inspection for discounts
  3. Choose Local Materials: Reduce transport and import costs
  4. Phase Your Project: Spread costs over 2–3 months
  5. Ask for Load Audit: Avoid overloading circuits and future repairs

🧑‍💼 How to Hire an Electrician on Balozy

  • ✅ Browse verified profiles by location and service type
  • ✅ Filter by wiring, inspection, solar, or smart home
  • ✅ Chat directly via WhatsApp or in-app messaging
  • ✅ Confirm scope, materials, and payment method
  • ✅ Leave a review to help others find trusted electricians

📍 Regional Price Summary

City Socket Install Full Wiring Solar Wiring Emergency Call
Nairobi 300–800 100K–250K 20K–80K 1.5K–3K
Machakos 300–700 80K–200K 15K–60K 1K–2.5K
Mombasa 400–900 100K–250K 20K–80K 1.5K–3K
Kisumu 300–800 90K–220K 15K–50K 1K–2.5K
Eldoret 300–800 80K–200K 15K–60K 1K–2.5K