Key Takeaways
- 1All electricians in Spain must be registered with the Junta de Andalucía and hold a valid installer certificate.
- 2A Boletín Eléctrico (electrical certificate) is legally required for any new installation or major modification.
- 3Hourly rates range from €40-€70, with call-out fees of €50-€80 for emergency work.
- 4Always request the CIE (Certificado de Instalación Eléctrica) after work is completed.
Quick Answer
To find a reliable electrician in Spain, check they're registered with the Junta de Andalucía and can issue a Boletín Eléctrico (electrical certificate). Expect to pay €40-€70/hour for standard work. For any new circuit or panel work, always request the CIE certificate afterward.
Electrical work in Spain is heavily regulated—and for good reason. Whether you're adding a new socket or rewiring a villa, understanding the system helps you avoid cowboys and stay legal.
What Qualifications Should a Spanish Electrician Have?
Unlike some countries, Spain requires electricians to be formally registered. Here's what to look for:
1. Instalador Autorizado
All electricians must hold a valid Carnet de Instalador issued by the Junta de Andalucía. This comes in categories: IBTB (basic domestic), IBTE (specialist), and IBTA (industrial). For home work, IBTB or IBTE is sufficient.
2. Empresa Instaladora
The company must be registered as an Empresa Instaladora with an active license number. You can verify this on the Junta de Andalucía website.
3. Insurance (Seguro de Responsabilidad Civil)
Registered companies must carry liability insurance. Ask to see proof—legitimate electricians won't hesitate to show it.
Electrician Costs in Spain (2026)
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate (standard) | €40 - €70 |
| Call-out fee | €30 - €50 |
| Emergency call-out (evenings/weekends) | €80 - €120 |
| New socket installation | €80 - €150 |
| New circuit + breaker | €150 - €300 |
| Consumer unit (cuadro) replacement | €400 - €800 |
| Full rewire (3-bed apartment) | €3,000 - €5,000 |
| Boletín Eléctrico (certificate only) | €150 - €250 |
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What is a Boletín Eléctrico?
The Boletín Eléctrico (officially called CIE - Certificado de Instalación Eléctrica) is a legal document certifying that an electrical installation meets Spanish regulations (REBT).
You need a Boletín for:
- Connecting a new property to the grid
- Increasing your power supply (potencia)
- Changing electricity supplier
- Any major electrical modification
- Selling a property (buyers increasingly request it)
Important: Old Properties
Many older Spanish properties have outdated wiring that won't pass inspection. If you're buying, budget €2,000-€5,000 for potential electrical upgrades to get a valid Boletín.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
"Are you registered with the Junta de Andalucía?" — Ask for their license number.
"Can you provide a Boletín?" — If they can't, they're not fully qualified.
"Do you have liability insurance?" — Essential protection for both parties.
"Will you provide a written quote?" — Never accept verbal estimates for significant work.
Written by
Antonio Ruiz
Master Electrician at CostaTrades
Expert contributor covering home maintenance, renovation, and property management on the Costa del Sol. Helping expats navigate Spanish construction and property ownership.
