How to Hire a Licensed Electrician for Your Bathroom Remodel
Bathrooms combine electricity and water—two things that don't mix well. Hiring a qualified licensed electrician isn't just about code compliance; it's about ensuring your family's safety for years to come. This guide walks you through finding the right electrician, verifying credentials, understanding GFCI requirements, and coordinating permits for your bathroom remodel.
Quick Summary
Time to hire
1-2 weeks
Typical cost
$500-$3,000
Importance
Critical (safety + code)
Why Hiring the Right Electrician Matters
Bathroom electrical work isn't like other rooms. The combination of water, humidity, and electricity creates unique hazards that building codes specifically address. A qualified electrician understands these requirements and ensures your installation is safe, legal, and will pass inspection.
Beyond safety, hiring correctly protects your investment. Unpermitted or improperly done electrical work can void your homeowner's insurance, create problems when selling your home, and potentially require costly tear-outs to fix.
- Safety first: Proper GFCI protection and code-compliant wiring prevent electrocution risks in wet environments.
- Code compliance: Licensed electricians know current NEC requirements and local amendments that affect bathroom installations.
- Insurance protection: Permitted work maintains your homeowner's insurance coverage; unlicensed work may void claims.
- Resale value: Buyers and inspectors look for proper permits and licensed work—DIY electrical raises red flags.
- Inspection approval: Your bathroom remodel likely needs rough-in and final electrical inspections to pass.
What Work Requires a Licensed Electrician vs. DIY
Before you start calling electricians, understand what actually requires professional licensing. This varies by jurisdiction, but here's a general breakdown:
Requires Licensed Electrician
- Adding new circuits to the electrical panel
- Installing or relocating outlets
- Installing exhaust fan (hardwired)
- Adding vanity light fixtures on new circuit
- Heated floor thermostat and wiring
- Running new wire through walls
- Upgrading service panel capacity
- Installing GFCI breakers at panel
Often DIY-Legal (Check Local Codes)
- Replacing existing light fixture (same location)
- Swapping standard outlet for GFCI outlet
- Replacing light switches
- Installing plug-in appliances
- Replacing exhaust fan motor (same unit)
Understanding Bathroom GFCI Requirements
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is non-negotiable in bathrooms. These devices detect electrical current leaking to ground (like through water or a person) and cut power in milliseconds— fast enough to prevent electrocution.
Current NEC Requirements for Bathroom Electrical
- 1.All receptacles must be GFCI protected—no exceptions for any 120-volt, 15- or 20-amp outlets in the bathroom.
- 2.Receptacle within 3 feet of sink—at least one outlet must be installed within 3 feet of the outside edge of each sink basin.
- 3.Dedicated 20-amp circuit—bathroom receptacles require a dedicated 20-amp circuit (can serve multiple bathroom outlets but not other rooms).
- 4.Lighting circuits—can be 15-amp and may be shared with other rooms, but many electricians recommend separate circuits.
- 5.Exhaust fan—typically requires its own circuit or can share with lighting depending on load calculations.
GFCI Outlet vs. GFCI Breaker
You can achieve GFCI protection two ways: individual GFCI outlets at each location, or a GFCI breaker at the panel that protects the entire circuit. GFCI breakers cost more upfront but protect all downstream outlets. GFCI outlets are easier to reset when tripped.
AFCI Requirements (Newer Codes)
Many jurisdictions now require AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection for bathroom circuits in addition to GFCI. AFCI protects against electrical fires from arcing. Combination AFCI/GFCI breakers are available for full protection.
Step-by-Step: Hiring Your Electrician
1. Define Your Electrical Scope of Work
Before contacting electricians, document exactly what electrical work your bathroom remodel requires. This helps you get accurate quotes and ensures nothing gets missed.
Common Bathroom Electrical Scope Items:
2. Gather Referrals from Multiple Sources
Don't just search online—the best electricians often have full schedules and don't advertise heavily. Cast a wide net:
3. Verify Licenses and Insurance
This step is non-negotiable. An unlicensed electrician puts your safety, insurance coverage, and home value at risk.
License Verification Checklist
4. Request Detailed Written Quotes
Get at least 3 quotes in writing. A verbal estimate is worthless— you need itemized documentation to compare apples to apples.
What Should Be in Every Quote
5. Ask the Right Interview Questions
When meeting with electricians (in person or by phone), these questions reveal experience, professionalism, and fit for your project:
"How many bathroom remodels have you done in the past year?"
Why ask: Bathroom electrical has unique requirements. You want someone experienced with wet locations, GFCI, and typical bathroom layouts.
"Who pulls the electrical permit—you or my GC?"
Why ask: Clarifies responsibility and coordination. Whoever pulls the permit schedules inspections.
"What's your process for coordinating with other trades?"
Why ask: Electrical work intersects with plumbing, framing, and drywall. Good electricians communicate proactively.
"What GFCI/AFCI protection will you install and where?"
Why ask: Tests their code knowledge. They should mention dedicated 20-amp circuits, GFCI outlets or breakers, and possibly AFCI requirements.
"How do you handle changes or additions during the project?"
Why ask: Remodels often evolve. Know their change order process and pricing before you start.
"What's your timeline availability?"
Why ask: Good electricians book out weeks in advance. Confirm they can meet your project schedule.
6. Check References and Past Work
Request 2-3 references from recent bathroom or kitchen remodels. When you call references, ask specific questions:
- Did they show up when promised and complete on schedule?
- Was the work area left clean at the end of each day?
- Did the final price match the quote?
- How did they handle any problems or changes?
- Did they pass inspection on the first try?
- Would you hire them again?
7. Coordinate Permits and Schedule with Your GC
Before signing, clarify the permit and inspection logistics:
Rough-In Phase
Electrical rough-in happens after framing but before drywall. The electrician runs wire, installs boxes, and positions everything. This work must be inspected before walls close up.
Finish Phase
After drywall, paint, and tile, the electrician returns to install outlets, switches, fixtures, and cover plates. Final inspection happens after all finish work.
Typical Bathroom Electrical Costs
Bathroom electrical costs vary widely based on your scope, location, and whether you're working with existing circuits or adding new ones. Here's what to expect:
| Work Item | Typical Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GFCI outlet installation | $150-$300 each | Includes outlet, box, and wiring |
| New 20-amp bathroom circuit | $300-$600 | From panel to bathroom |
| Vanity light fixture install | $150-$350 | Labor only; fixture extra |
| Exhaust fan (with ductwork) | $250-$500 | More if venting to exterior |
| Heated floor circuit | $300-$600 | Dedicated circuit + thermostat |
| Recessed lighting (per light) | $150-$250 | Must be wet-rated in shower |
| Complete bathroom rewire | $1,500-$3,000+ | All new circuits, multiple fixtures |
Ways to Save Money
- - Bundle rough-in and finish work with same electrician
- - Do your own fixture shopping (just match specs)
- - Schedule during electrician's slower season
- - Minimize circuit additions by planning layout carefully
What Drives Costs Up
- - Panel far from bathroom (longer wire runs)
- - Panel at capacity (upgrade needed)
- - Plaster walls vs. drywall (harder to fish wire)
- - Rush scheduling or after-hours work
Pro Tips from Experienced Remodelers
Book your electrician before demolition starts
Good electricians book 2-4 weeks out. Waiting until you need them creates expensive schedule gaps.
Plan outlet locations at counter height
Outlets 42-48 inches above finished floor work well for most vanities and avoid getting hidden behind mirrors.
Consider future needs now
Adding a circuit for a future bidet toilet or towel warmer costs little extra during rough-in but a lot after walls close.
Get switch locations right
Standard switch height is 48 inches. Mark switch positions on framing with tape before electrician arrives.
Ask about dimmer compatibility
LED fixtures need compatible dimmers. Have your electrician verify compatibility before installation.
Request photos of hidden work
Ask electrician to photograph all rough-in wiring before drywall. Useful for future reference and troubleshooting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Hiring based on price alone
Why it's a problem: Cheapest bid often means corners cut, delays, or change orders that exceed original quotes
What to do instead: Compare value: experience, references, warranty, and communication quality matter more than saving $200
Not verifying the actual license
Why it's a problem: Expired licenses, working under someone else's license, or no license at all are common
What to do instead: Verify directly through state licensing board—don't just ask for a license number
Skipping the electrical permit
Why it's a problem: Unpermitted work creates insurance, safety, and resale problems
What to do instead: Always pull permits. If an electrician suggests skipping them, find someone else
Poor communication with GC
Why it's a problem: Electrician shows up when plumber is still working, or drywall gets hung before rough-in inspection
What to do instead: Establish clear scheduling coordination between all trades before work starts
Forgetting about the exhaust fan circuit
Why it's a problem: Many older bathrooms have exhaust fans on lighting circuits that can't handle modern combo units
What to do instead: Discuss exhaust fan requirements early—heated or combo units often need dedicated circuits
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a licensed electrician cost for a bathroom remodel?
Bathroom remodel electrical work typically costs between $500 and $3,000 depending on scope. Simple updates like adding GFCI outlets run $150-$400, while complete rewiring with new circuits, vanity lighting, exhaust fan, and heated floor circuits can reach $2,000-$3,000 or more. Labor rates range from $50-$130 per hour depending on your location and the electrician's experience.
What bathroom electrical work requires a licensed electrician?
In most jurisdictions, any work that involves new circuits, panel modifications, hardwired fixtures, or moving/adding outlets requires a licensed electrician and permit. This includes installing exhaust fans, adding vanity lighting circuits, heated floor systems, and upgrading to GFCI protection. Simple fixture swaps (like replacing a light with same-voltage light) may be DIY-legal but check local codes first.
What are GFCI requirements for bathroom electrical?
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires GFCI protection for all bathroom receptacles. GFCI outlets must be installed within 3 feet of the sink edge. Additionally, all 120-volt, 15- and 20-amp receptacles in bathrooms must be GFCI protected—no exceptions. Many jurisdictions also require AFCI protection for bathroom circuits, which protects against arc faults that can cause electrical fires.
How do I verify an electrician's license is valid?
Visit your state's contractor licensing board website and search by the electrician's name or license number. The database will show license status (active, expired, suspended), license type (journeyman, master, or electrical contractor), and any disciplinary actions. Also verify they carry current liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage by requesting certificates of insurance directly.
Should my electrician or general contractor pull the electrical permit?
This varies by jurisdiction and project structure. If you have a general contractor, they often pull all permits as part of their scope and coordination role. However, some areas require the licensed tradesperson (electrician) to pull their own permit. Clarify this upfront—whoever pulls the permit is responsible for scheduling inspections and ensuring code compliance. Get this in writing before work begins.
Ready for the Next Step?
Once you've hired your electrician, coordinate their schedule with your tile installer who will be handling waterproofing and tile work in the wet areas.