What this service involves
Identify the common/traveler conductors and replace faulty three-way controls.
Typical scope and limits: One two-location switching circuit. Major rewiring excluded.
Who usually needs it
Homeowners updating switches, adding dimmers or three-way control, or fixing flickering and buzzing controls.
Estimated pricing
$225–$450 per switch circuit
Priced per switch circuit. This is a planning range, not a quote.
Project ranges include labor and standard installation materials unless a listing says otherwise. Hourly rates are labor only, and equipment you supply (such as chargers, fixtures or fans) is not included. Permit fees and sales tax are additional. Estimates are free, including on-site visits.
Electrical work may require openings in walls or ceilings. Drywall patching, texture, and painting are not included and must be arranged with others.
What an electrician evaluates first
- Box depth and whether a neutral is present
- Dimmer compatibility with the installed lamps or fixtures
- Multi-way switching arrangement
- Load on the circuit
Typical work sequence
- Identify the circuit and switching layout
- Replace or add the control
- Test dimming range and operation
Access and disruption
Most switch work happens at the existing box. Adding a new switch location can require cable routing.
Permits and inspection
New circuits, equipment changes and most wiring alterations normally need an electrical permit and inspection. In Washington, Labor & Industries issues electrical permits except in cities that run their own electrical program, so the permitting authority depends on the property address rather than the mailing city. True confirms the correct authority before work starts. Permit fees are additional to the estimate.
Helpful, safe photos
The switch plate and the fixtures it controls, plus lamp packaging or model information. Only photograph what is safely visible — never remove electrical covers.
Related True Wire work
Photos from related projects; they are not necessarily this exact service.
Questions
Why do my LED lights flicker on a dimmer?
Dimmers and LED drivers need to be compatible. Matching the dimmer to the lamp or fixture usually matters more than the wiring itself.
Do smart switches need a neutral?
Many do. Older boxes may not have one, which affects product choice.
Not sure what you need?
Send a photo. Ask a certified electrician.
Not sure what you need? Send a photo and tell True what’s going on or what you’d like to change. Get help understanding your options and the next step.
Tell True about your project
What happens next
Tell us what you’re working on. True will review your request and respond by your preferred contact method. Together, we’ll determine whether the next step is advice based on your photos, a visit, or an estimate. Estimates are free, including on-site visits.