Let’s be real, no one’s ever thrilled about paying a call-out fee. But if you’ve ever wondered why electricians charge them (and what they actually cover), you’re not alone. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden power issue in Box Hill or planning some upgrades in Camberwell, understanding how electrical pricing works can help you avoid surprises.

Most electricians do charge a call-out fee. It’s a fixed cost for coming to your property, and in many cases, it includes travel, admin, and the first hour of labour. But here’s the thing, always ask what’s included before you book. Every electrician does things a little differently.

Let’s break it down, clear up some myths, and help you get the best value for your electrical work in Melbourne.

Why Do Electricians Charge Call-Out Fees?

Running an electrical business isn’t just about turning up with a toolbox. There’s a lot happening behind the scenes, and the call-out fee helps cover those hidden costs.

Here’s a look at what goes into it:

Driving long distances across Victoria’s suburbs (think Brighton to Berwick!) adds up: fuel, tolls, and wear and tear on the van.
Booking jobs, juggling emergencies, and scheduling to suit your availability takes admin time.
Saying “yes” to a small fix often means saying “no” to a bigger job.
Keeping up with training, safety standards, and certifications.
Paying for insurance and high-quality tools or materials.

So, while a call-out fee might feel like an annoying extra, it’s what allows local sparkies like us to deliver safe, high-quality work without cutting corners.

Think about it like this. If we drove across town just to change a light fitting in Balwyn and didn’t charge a call-out fee, we’d end up operating at a loss. And nobody wants a rushed or underpaid electrician handling their wiring.

Call-Out Fees and Hourly Rates for Electricians in Melbourne

Now for the nitty-gritty.

Weekday Call-Out Fees:

Typical range: $120 to $300
Includes: Travel and first hour of labour (usually)

After-Hours & Emergency Fees:

Range: Up to $500 (especially for weekends or late-night calls)

Hourly Rates:

Standard hours: $100 to $150 per hour
After-hours/weekends: Up to 2 or 2.5 times the standard rate

Licensed AJD electricians with tools and safety gear in Melbourne

Our Pricing at AJD Electrical Solutions

Here’s how we keep things simple and transparent when it comes to pricing:

Service Time: Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm

Call-Out Fee (Minimum Charge): $250
Hourly Rate (After First Hour): $130

Service Time: After-hours and Weekends

Call-Out Fee (Minimum Charge): $400
Hourly Rate (After First Hour): $260

That first hour is already included in our minimum charge. After that, we bill hourly.

For larger projects, like EV charger installations or switchboard upgrades, we’re happy to offer a fixed price upfront so you know exactly what to expect. No guesswork, no obligation, and definitely no annoying follow-up sales calls.

How to Spot a Fair Quote (and What to Avoid)

When you’re booking a tradie, you want peace of mind, not pricing confusion. Here’s how to make sure you're getting a fair go.

🚩 Red Flags to Watch For

“No call-out fee” offers – Sounds good, right? But the catch is often in the fine print. These businesses may inflate their hourly rates or tack on hidden costs later.
Too-good-to-be-true hourly rates – Be wary. Rock-bottom prices can mean unlicensed or uninsured electricians. That’s a risk not worth taking, especially when your home’s safety is on the line.

✅ What to Ask Before Booking

Is the call-out fee separate or does it cover the first hour?
Can I get a detailed, written quote upfront?
Is the quote all-inclusive with no sneaky extras?
For bigger jobs, can the call-out fee be waived?

Most reputable electricians, us included, will happily explain their pricing and give you a fixed quote for larger projects. You just have to ask.

How to Keep Your Electrical Costs Down

Nobody wants to overpay for a quick fix. Here are a few smart ways to save:

✅ Bundle Jobs Together

Got a few minor issues? Like a dodgy power point or outdated smoke alarms? Try to group them into one visit. It’s more cost-effective than calling us out multiple times.

✅ Choose a Local Electrician

The closer we are, the less time and fuel we spend getting to you. That can mean a lower call-out fee, especially in areas like Glen Waverley, Doncaster or Reservoir.

✅ Book During Business Hours

If it’s not urgent, schedule your job during normal hours. Emergency rates are there for, well, emergencies. And we’d rather keep those times open for folks really in a bind.

Why Melbourne Locals Choose AJD Electrical

We’ve been lighting up Melbourne homes for over 10 years. Fully licensed, fully insured, and completely upfront, our team takes pride in doing things right the first time.

We won’t hit you with surprise fees. We won’t pester you with sales calls. And we’ll always give you a clear, fair quote before we get started.

Got questions or a project in mind?

Give us a call, we’re happy to chat and see what you need.

Do Electricians Charge Call-Out Fees? What’s the Real Hourly Rate?