Data cabling has recently become an integral part of Australian homes, and its installation will cost you around $75/hr. That’s only an average rate, though. The exact price will still differ from job to job. Generally, prices range from as low as $60/hr to as high as $85/hr.
Where do these prices come from?
Data cabling prices from real customers
Job details: Installation of 4 data cables, a wall plate socket, and a TV antenna point split throughout a single-storey home
TOTAL COST: $630
Job details: Installation of additional phone line that’s connected to the existing line in the house
TOTAL COST: $200
Job details: Installation of additional phone/data point for computer in living area
TOTAL COST: $120
Factors
Data cabling may look simple, but it’s really a complicated job. Because of this, electricians make various considerations when providing quotes. Learning about what goes into an estimated price will prepare you for the actual costs involved.
Cost of labour
Like any other kind of electrical service, data cabling requires proper training, which is why it’s always best to hire fully trained and licensed data cablers for your project. They normally charge a higher fee, but it will be money well spent because they can guarantee your safety.
Type of cable to be used
Depending on your budget, there are different types of data cable that you can choose from. Twisted pair cables (CAT 3 or CAT 5e) are the most commonly used for new installations, and they are usually the most affordable. For older computer networks, coaxial cables are the way to go. They have higher bandwidths and are reasonably priced as well. If you can spare some more cash, though, fibre optic cables are an excellent choice. Fibre optic cables are generally the most expensive type, but they are widely used due to their light weight and ability to provide extremely fast connections.
Number of rooms
Data cabling for a three-bedroom house will naturally cost more than data cabling for, let’s say, a small studio apartment.
Photo from: CMK Electrical Data
Rates per state
Queenslanders and Victorians can rejoice as they only need to pay their electricians $75/hr on average for data cabling installation — the lowest rate across the country. Meanwhile, sparkies in New South Wales charge approximately $80/hr for the same type of service. Western Australia, on the other hand, has the highest cost when it comes to data cabling, which is about $85/hr.
Looking for an electrician for your data cable installation project? Look no further as ServiceSeeking.com.au has a wide range of highly qualified professionals who can assure you of a job well done.
Pricing information correct as at August 2016.
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