Who Do I Hire to Fix an Outlet that Stopped Working?
The right trade for this job, what it typically costs in Florida, and how to describe the work so quotes come back accurate.
Short answer: hire a licensed electrician. Check the nearest GFCI first — one tripped GFCI commonly kills several outlets. If resetting it does not restore power, that is an electrician.
Why this is the right trade
Electrical work is licensed under an EC (certified electrical contractor) in Florida. Handyman-level workers cannot legally pull an electrical permit.
Getting the trade right on the first call saves you a wasted service fee and, more often, a second week of waiting.
What it usually costs
| What it costs | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Service call / diagnosis | $100 – $180 |
| Add or move an outlet | $150 – $350 |
| Ceiling fan or fixture install | $150 – $450 |
| Panel replacement | $1,800 – $4,500 |
How to describe the job so quotes are accurate
- Take three photos: wide, close, and the model or label plate if there is one.
- Say when the problem started and whether it is getting worse.
- Note anything you already tried, so nobody bills you to repeat it.
- Mention access: gate codes, stairs, elevator reservations, or pets.
Ready for real quotes?
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Post a projectSigns you called the right pro
- They ask about breakers that trip when the AC and microwave run together.
- They ask about outlets that feel warm or show scorch marks.
- They ask about lights that dim every time a large appliance starts.
Red flags
- anyone offering to skip the permit on a panel or service change
- no photo of the finished panel labeling
Small circuits and fixtures are same-day; a panel swap is one day plus utility coordination.
Ready to compare real numbers? Post your project on QOTA and get quotes from verified Florida pros — no lead fees, no call storms, and payments held safely until the work is done.