How much does it cost to replace outlet covers?
How much does it cost to replace outlet covers?
$0.50 – $20.00 average cost per outlet cover (materials only)
$5.50 – $30.00 average cost per indoor outlet cover (installed by pro)
$10.00 – $30.00 average cost per outdoor outlet cover (installed by pro)
Cost to replace outlet covers
The cost to replace outlet covers is $5.50 to $30.00 per cover, depending on the color, style, and if the outlet is indoors or outdoors. Electrical outlet cover prices are $0.50 to $20.00 for the unit alone. Changing outlet cover plates is a simple way to update the look of a home.
| Type | Cover materials cost (DIY)* | Total cost to install (PRO)* |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor outlet cover (single) | $0.50 – $10.00 | $5.50 – $20.00 |
| Outdoor outlet cover | $5.00 – $20.00 | $10.00 – $30.00 |
*Cover only, not including outlet receptacle.
Outlet cover replacement cost factors
Outlet cover prices are $0.50 to $20.00 each for the unit alone, depending on the color, style, width, and whether it's an indoor or outdoor model. Simple white indoor outlet covers are the cheapest, while designer indoor plates and weatherproof outdoor covers cost the most.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Outlet cover plate | $0.50 – $20.00 |
| Replacement labor | $5.00 – $10.00 |
| Total cost per cover | $5.50 – $30.00 |
An outlet cover's "gang" refers to its width and the number of receptacles it can hold.
Combination outlet covers feature an opening for a light switch beside the outlet opening.
Labor costs to install outlet cover plates
Labor costs to replace outlet cover plates are $5 to $10 per cover. Costs per cover typically decrease when replacing multiple covers at the same time. A handyman can replace outlet covers. Hire a licensed electrician instead if replacing the outlet receptacle at the same time.
A handyman charges $50 to $80 per hour on average, not including materials. A handyman may have a minimum charge of $75 to $200 or a minimum number of hours.
An electrician charges $50 to $130 per hour, not including materials. Most electricians charge a minimum one-hour rate or a $100 to $200 trip fee.
Outlet repair or replacement
When replacing an outlet cover, the handyman or electrician may find other problems requiring repairs:
Outlet replacement costs $80 to $200 on average, depending on the type.
Outlet repair costs $80 to $200, the same as full replacement. Faulty receptacles typically must be replaced instead of repaired.
Electrical rewiring costs $7 to $10 per linear foot. The electrician may need to run new wire if removing the outlet cover reveals wiring issues.
Covering an outlet with drywall
Drywall repair costs $50 to $150 to patch small holes to cover an empty outlet box. DIY patch kits cost $10 to $50 and cover holes up to 6".
When removing an outlet, have an electrician cap the wires before permanently covering the hole with drywall. Covering an outlet box with drywall without removing the receptacle and capping the wires is against code and highly dangerous.
For a low-cost alternative, cover an unused outlet with a blank wall plate instead of drywall. Blank outlet covers cost $0.50 to $10.00, depending on the color and style.
Electrical outlet cover FAQs
How often do outlet covers need to be replaced?
Outlet covers do not need to be replaced if they are in good physical condition. However, replacing outlet covers is an easy and inexpensive way to freshen up the home's appearance.
Where to buy outlet covers
Buy outlet covers at Home Depot, Lowe's, and other home improvement stores or from online retailers like Amazon and Wayfair.
How to change an outlet cover
Follow these steps to change an outlet cover:
Shut off power to the outlet at the main electrical panel.
Use a screwdriver to remove the mounting screws attaching the cover to the outlet.
Gently remove the plate from the wall. If the plate was installed while paint on the surrounding wall was still tacky, it may have adhered to the wall. Removing it too quickly may cause the paint to peel or flake.
Clean the outlet's interior and the edges of the hole.
Use a screwdriver to mount the new plate to the outlet, making sure the holes in the cover align properly with the holes in the outlet.
Turn the power to the outlet back on.
Can you use duct tape to cover electrical outlet?
No, you can't use duct tape to cover an outlet without risking a fire. Duct tape is not rated for electrical protection and may conduct a current if it touches the contacts in the outlet.
Getting estimates from electricians and handymen
Before hiring an electrician or a handyman near you to replace outlet covers, be sure to:
Get three quotes to compare.
Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Hire a licensed, bonded, and insured company that has been in business for 5+ years.
Discuss rates and payment methods up front.
Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Get a detailed contract and warranty in writing before the work begins.
Confirm they will provide new quotes requiring your approval for any unexpected expenses.
Never pay in full before the project is complete.
Questions to ask
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Can you provide local references with contact information?
How many outlet covers does the estimate include?
What additional costs might come up during installation?
How long will the project take?