Cost of moving the fuse box
Cost of moving a fuse box 2026
Moving a fuse box costs on average between €1,000 and €1,600, depending on the distance, the complexity of the new connection, and whether grooves need to be made. This job involves moving the distribution board, meters, and electrical connection to a different location in your home. The price is influenced by the required cable length, the type of wall, and whether your grid operator needs to relocate the connection. In this price guide, you can read about the costs of moving a fuse box and what to look out for.
Table of Contents
- What does moving a fuse box cost?
- Costs of moving a fuse box per type of work
- Price-determining factors for moving a fuse box
- Extra costs and surcharges when moving a fuse box
- How does the professional work when moving a fuse box?
- How can you save on moving a fuse box?
- Common reasons to move a fuse box
- Find the best professional for moving your fuse box
- Frequently asked questions about moving a fuse box
- Book a professional now to move your fuse box
- Useful links
What does moving a fuse box cost?
Moving a fuse box costs on average between €1,000 and €1,600 per project. This amount includes both the work of the grid operator (moving the main connection and meters) and the work of the electrician (moving the distribution board and adjusting the wiring). The exact costs depend on the distance over which you want to move the fuse box and the complexity of the existing installation.
Overview of fuse box relocation costs
| Type of cost | Price |
|---|---|
| Minimum costs | €1,000 per project |
| Maximum costs | €1,600 per project |
| Hourly rate electrician | From €69 per hour |
The table shows that the costs for moving a fuse box mainly depend on the scope of the project. For a simple move over a short distance, you will be closer to €1,000, while more complex situations with longer cable routes and multiple adjustments will be closer to €1,600. The electrician's hourly rate forms part of the total price, along with the charges the grid operator applies for relocating the main connection.
All mentioned prices include 21% VAT and labour. The actual price for your situation depends on the specific circumstances in your home.
Costs of moving a fuse box per type of work
The costs for moving a fuse box differ depending on whether you are only moving the distribution board or the complete fuse box including meters. When moving the entire fuse box, the grid operator must be involved to relocate the main connection and meters, which increases the price. If you want to move the fuse box further than three metres, additional costs will apply.
| Work activity | Price |
|---|---|
| Moving the fuse box in its entirety | €1,000 - €1,600 per project |
| Extra costs for moving further than 3 metres | €60 surcharge |
Price-determining factors for moving a fuse box
The costs for moving a fuse box are determined by several factors. Some can be practically influenced, others depend on the situation in your home. Below you can read what can increase or decrease the price.
Distance to the main cable
The further the new location is from the main cable, the more cable needs to be pulled. Longer cable routes cost more in materials and labour. If the main cable's location is unfavourable, excavation work may also be necessary, further increasing costs.
Relocation further than three metres
For a relocation of more than three metres, the grid operator charges a surcharge of €60. This is on top of the standard costs. The extra distance requires more cable and installation work.
Involvement of the grid operator
If the meters and main connection must be moved, the grid operator (such as Liander or Stedin) is obligatorily involved. This means a separate appointment and application. Costs vary by region and type of connection.
Lead time and waiting time
The grid operator's planning determines when the work can be carried out. Waiting times of several weeks to months are common. The longer the lead time, the greater the chance of price changes or extra planning costs. Plan well in advance to prevent delays.
Permits and reporting obligation
When moving a fuse box, a notification to the municipality is often mandatory. In some cases, you also need a permit, especially if the main connection is being relocated. Permits cost time and money, which increases the total costs.
Wall type and accessibility
Making grooves in concrete or stone takes more time than in plasterboard. The accessibility of the work site also plays a role. If the electrician and grid operator have difficulty reaching the old or new location, the labour duration increases.
Required materials
The price of cables, housing, and connection materials differs per type and quality. Thicker cables for higher currents are more expensive. The number of metres of cable required also determines the material costs.
Complexity of the existing installation
With old or unusual installations, extra work may be needed to connect everything safely and according to standards. This requires more expertise and time, which increases the price.
Urgency versus planned work
Urgent jobs cost more than planned work. Plan the relocation of the fuse box well in advance, especially because the grid operator must be involved. Haste means higher rates.
Weekend and evening work
Work in the weekend or in the evening is more expensive than during the week at daytime. The electrician then charges a higher hourly rate. Choose weekdays to save costs.
Region
In large cities, rates are often higher than in rural areas. This is due to higher overhead costs and demand for professionals. Costs can vary significantly per region.
Preparation and accessibility
Ensure the work area is clear and accessible for both the electrician and the grid operator. Good preparation saves labour time and prevents extra costs due to delays.
Acting early prevents large costs
Do not postpone necessary adjustments. A timely relocation of the fuse box prevents problems with the existing installation from accumulating, which turns out more expensive later.
Extra costs and surcharges when moving a fuse box
Extra costs are situation-dependent. At Zoofy, you do not pay call-out charges.
- For a relocation of more than three metres, the grid operator charges a surcharge of €60
- Urgent jobs are more expensive because the professional must adjust their planning
- Work in the weekend costs more than on weekdays during the day
- Moving a fuse box is a good time to expand or modernise the distribution board, for example for future additions such as solar panels or a charging station
How does the professional work when moving a fuse box?
Moving a fuse box happens in several steps, where both the grid operator and the electrician work together.
- Application to grid operator: The grid operator (such as Liander or Stedin) must be involved for moving the main connection and meters. This requires a separate appointment and application.
- Preparatory work: The electrician measures the new location, plans the cable route, and makes arrangements with the grid operator. During the relocation, the power must be switched off for several hours to an entire day.
- Execution by electrician: The electrician handles moving the distribution board and pulls the internal wiring to the new location. These activities are coordinated with the grid operator, who moves the main connection up to and including the meter.
- Inspection and certification: Upon completion, a NEN 1010 inspection takes place by a recognised installation company. The electrician issues an installation certificate and the grid operator approves the connection before it can be used again.
How can you save on moving a fuse box?
There are several ways to lower the costs of moving a fuse box without compromising on quality.
- Consider alternatives: In some cases, it is not necessary to move the entire fuse box, but an extra distribution board at the desired location can be a cheaper solution. This is especially relevant when you want more groups in an extension or attic, without having to move the main meter.
- Combine work: Have other activities carried out simultaneously during the move, such as installing extra sockets, replacing old wiring, or installing home automation. This saves on travel costs and preparation time.
- Plan during the week: Do not book in the weekend or with urgency. Plan the work well in advance during the week to avoid higher rates.
- Ensure good preparation: Make sure the work site is clear and accessible for both the electrician and the grid operator. This prevents extra labour time.
- Book via Zoofy: You get a fixed rate in advance, without call-out charges and without surprises. You only pay after the job is completed.
Common reasons to move a fuse box
There are various situations in which moving a fuse box becomes necessary or desirable.
Renovation or extension
During a renovation, the current location of the fuse box may become impractical or in the way. An extension, new layout, or roof extension sometimes requires a different spot for the fuse box, where the costs become part of the renovation budget.
Inconvenient or unsuitable location
The fuse box is located in an inaccessible or impractical place, for example in a bedroom, bathroom, or damp room. Moving it to a better location improves the accessibility and safety of the installation.
Sustainability
When installing solar panels or a home battery, it may be necessary to expand the fuse box or move it to a technically more suitable location with sufficient space for modern components.
Find the best professional for moving your fuse box
Work on the fuse box may only be performed by certified professionals due to safety risks and legal requirements.
- Certified professionals: Moving a fuse box and main connection may only be performed by certified electricians. Working without proper qualifications is illegal and life-threatening.
- Warranty and certification: A recognised electrician issues an installation certificate and offers a warranty on the work. This certificate is important for any insurance claims.
- Professional liability: Check if the professional has professional liability insurance for damage during the work.
- No call-out charges: At Zoofy, you never pay call-out charges.
- Fixed price in advance: You know exactly what the costs are before the work begins, without any surprises afterwards.
- Quick booking: Book a professional directly without requesting quotes or lengthy comparisons.
- Payment after completion: You pay via QR code only when the job is fully finished.
- Vetted professionals: All affiliated electricians are screened and reliable.
Frequently asked questions about moving a fuse box
How expensive is it to move a fuse box?
The costs are on average between €1,000 and €1,600 per project. This amount includes the work of the grid operator (moving the main connection and meters) and the electrician (distribution board and wiring). When moving over more than three metres, there is a surcharge of €60.
Am I allowed to move my fuse box myself?
No, work on the fuse box and main connection may legally only be performed by certified professionals. It is illegal and life-threatening to do this yourself. Only recognised electricians are allowed to work on electrical installations.
How do you move a fuse box?
The relocation happens in cooperation between the grid operator and the electrician. First, you submit an application to the grid operator (such as Stedin or Liander). The electrician moves the distribution board and wiring, while the grid operator moves the main connection and meters. After completion, a NEN 1010 inspection follows.
How long does it take to move a fuse box?
The activities themselves take one to two working days, but the total lead time can be several weeks to months due to the grid operator's planning. Plan well in advance to prevent delays.
Do I need to apply for a permit to move a fuse box?
Often, a notification to the municipality is required. In some cases, a permit is needed, especially when relocating the main connection. Check the rules with your municipality before you start.
Can I have the fuse box moved in a rental property?
Tenants must have permission from the landlord. Apartment owners should consult the Owners' Association (VvE), as work on the main connection can affect other homes.
Is it cheaper to only move the distribution board?
Yes, moving only the distribution board is cheaper and only requires an electrician. Moving the complete fuse box including meters increases the costs because the grid operator must be involved.
How long is the power switched off during the relocation?
The power must be switched off for several hours to an entire day. Empty the fridge and freezer beforehand and ensure alternative lighting. The exact duration depends on the complexity of the job.
Should I inform my insurance about moving the fuse box?
Yes, inform your home insurance, especially if this affects fire safety. A professional installation with an installation certificate is important for coverage in case of any claims.
What if the grid operator refuses to place the fuse box at my desired location?
The grid operator can object to certain locations for safety or technical reasons. You can then choose an alternative location or adjust the plan in consultation with the electrician.
Book a professional now to move your fuse box
Ready to have your fuse box moved? At Zoofy, you book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You see exactly what it costs in advance, and Zoofy connects you with a reliable professional who has been vetted. You only pay once the work is done. Book a professional directly now.