What home jobs cost in Sydney (2026)
In 2026, common Sydney home jobs run roughly: a switchboard upgrade $1,500–$4,000, hot-water replacement $900–$5,000, new decking about $300 per square metre, a half-day handyman $240–$320, and a blocked drain $150–$400 — all GST included. Final prices depend on access, materials and the state of what’s already there.
Power & solar
A switchboard upgrade typically runs $1,500–$4,000, depending on how many circuits, whether a safety switch is added, and how old the existing wiring is. Older Eastern-Suburbs homes often need more than a like-for-like swap.
Solar and battery prices vary widely with system size and roof access, so they’re best quoted on the day — but a licensed electrician is non-negotiable for any of this work.
Water & leaks
Replacing a hot-water system usually costs $900–$5,000 — a basic electric storage unit at the low end, a heat-pump or continuous-flow gas system at the high end, plus more if the location or pipework needs changing.
A blocked drain is generally $150–$400 to clear, depending on the blockage and whether a camera or jetter is needed. If tree roots are involved, expect the higher end and possibly follow-up work.
Upgrades & odd jobs
New decking runs around $300 per square metre as a guide, varying with timber choice, height off the ground and whether old decking has to come up first.
General handyman work is often $240–$320 for a half-day visit — enough to knock over a list of small jobs in one go, which is usually better value than booking each one separately.
Why ranges, not fixed prices
Every home is different. Access, parking, the age of what’s already there, and what’s found once work starts all move the number. Treat these as honest starting points, not quotes.
When we organise a job, we get a clear written price up front so there are no surprises — and you approve it before anyone starts.
Common questions
How much is a switchboard upgrade in Sydney?
Usually $1,500–$4,000 (GST included), depending on the number of circuits, whether safety switches are added, and the age of the existing wiring.
What does it cost to replace a hot-water system?
Roughly $900–$5,000. A basic electric storage unit sits at the low end; heat-pump and continuous-flow gas systems, or jobs needing new pipework, sit higher.
How much does new decking cost?
About $300 per square metre as a guide. The timber you choose, the height off the ground, and removing any old decking all change the final figure.
Are these prices GST inclusive?
Yes. All the ranges here include GST. They’re honest starting points — your final price depends on access, materials and what’s found once work begins.