How much does a new consumer unit cost – Advice from Electriman, North London Electricians
Published 11 July 2026
## How Much Does a New Consumer Unit Cost in the UK?
Replacing your consumer unit (also called a fuse box) is one of the most important electrical upgrades you can make. Here's what you need to know about the costs involved.
### Typical Costs
- **Supply only (unit cost):** £50–£200 depending on size and type
- **Labour only:** £200–£500 depending on location and complexity
- **Full installation (supply + labour):** £300–£800 for most homes
- **Large homes or complex rewires:** £800–£1,500+
### What Affects the Price?
- **Number of circuits:** A 10-way board costs more than a 6-way
- **Type of protection:** RCBO-protected boards (one device per circuit) cost more but offer better protection than dual RCD boards
- **Metal vs plastic:** Since 2016, metal-clad units are required by BS 7671 — older plastic units cannot be legally installed as replacements
- **Location:** London and the South East typically cost 20–30% more than other regions
- **Access and additional work:** If cables need extending, earthing needs upgrading, or the meter tails require replacement, costs rise
### Types of Consumer Unit
- **Dual RCD (split load) board:** Lower cost option, typically £300–£450 fitted — less protection if one RCD trips
- **Full RCBO board:** Each circuit has individual protection, typically £450–£700 fitted — preferred option
- **Smart/Surge Protected boards:** £600–£1,000+ fitted
### What Should Be Included?
**Always ask you
Need a qualified electrician in North London?
Electriman covers Mill Hill, Barnet, Finchley, Edgware, Enfield, Watford and surrounding areas. All work is Part P certified and fully insured.
Want to go deeper? Read the full technical breakdown on ElectriQs →
