Thinking about adding a skylight to your Adelaide home? It’s a great way to bring in natural light, improve ventilation, and make rooms feel bigger and brighter.
But before you start cutting into your roof, it’s fair to ask:
How much does it cost to install a skylight in Adelaide?
The cost depends on the type of skylight, your roof, and how complex the job is. Below, we break down what you can expect to pay in Adelaide and what influences the final price.
Average Skylight Installation Cost in Adelaide
In Adelaide, skylight installation costs range from $800 to $5,000 or more, depending on the style, size, and installation complexity.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
| Skylight Type | Total Installed Cost |
| Fixed skylight | $800 – $2,000 |
| Venting/manual skylight | $1,200 – $3,000 |
| Electric/solar skylight | $2,000 – $5,000+ |
| Tubular skylight (sun tunnel) | $600 – $1,500 |
| Velux skylight (installed) | $1,500 – $4,500+ |
| Custom skylight | $3,000 – $8,000+ |
These prices include the skylight unit, installation labour, sealing, and basic internal finishing. Extra work, like plastering, electricals, or roof adjustments, can increase the cost.
What Affects the Cost of Skylight Installation in Adelaide?
1. Type of Skylight
There are a few main options:
- Fixed: For light only. No ventilation. Cheapest to install.
- Venting/manual: Can be opened for airflow.
- Electric or solar: Open with a remote or sensor. Costs more.
- Tubular: Great for small rooms with limited ceiling space.
- Custom: Made to fit non-standard roof spaces. Most expensive.
The more advanced the unit, the higher the price.
2. Brand (e.g. Velux)
Velux skylights are widely used in Adelaide for their quality and energy efficiency. Their models come with glazing options, blinds, rain sensors, and solar-powered vents.
A basic Velux fixed skylight might cost $1,200 installed, while a solar-powered version can exceed $4,000.
3. Roof Type and Accessibility
Adelaide homes have a mix of tiled and Colorbond metal roofs. Tiled roofs take longer to work with and often cost more.
Other factors include:
- Flat vs pitched roof: Flat roofs may require extra waterproofing.
- Single-storey vs double-storey: Two-storey homes usually need scaffolding or safety equipment, adding cost.
4. Interior Finish Work
If your ceiling needs a light shaft or finishing work, expect extra charges. You might need:
- Ceiling plastering
- Painting
- Light well framing
- Electrical wiring (for motorised skylights)
This can add $300–$1,000+ depending on the scope.
5. Labour Rates in Adelaide
Adelaide’s trade labour rates are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, but experienced installers charge more. Expect to pay $80–$150 per hour, with total labour often making up 40–50% of your project cost.
Skylight Installation Cost by Room
Here’s what you might pay in Adelaide based on room type:
- Kitchen: $1,200 – $3,500 (venting often needed)
- Bathroom: $1,200 – $3,000 (good airflow is key)
- Living Room: $1,500 – $4,500 (larger skylights for open spaces)
- Hallway or stairwell: $800 – $2,000
- Closet/toilet/pantry: $600 – $1,200 (typically uses a tubular skylight)
Is Council Approval Needed in Adelaide?
Most skylights in Adelaide don’t need council approval — especially if:
- The roof structure isn’t significantly altered
- The skylight is under 10m²
- It’s not on a heritage-listed property
That said, if your home is in a regulated area (like a conservation zone), check with your local council or installer. You can also use the PlanSA portal to verify if approvals are needed.
Are Skylights Worth the Cost?
Yes — especially in Adelaide, where natural light helps regulate indoor temperature and reduce power bills.
A skylight can:
- Lower lighting costs
- Improve air circulation
- Increase resale value
- Make a home feel more open
Just make sure it’s installed properly. Poor sealing or wrong placement can lead to leaks, drafts, and heat loss.
DIY vs Professional Installation in Adelaide
Installing a skylight involves cutting into your roof, creating a sealed opening, and modifying internal ceilings. In Adelaide, this work usually requires a licensed builder — especially if structural changes are involved.
DIY installation isn’t recommended, unless you’re experienced with roofing, waterproofing, and ceiling work.
Can You Claim a Skylight as a Home Improvement?
Yes. In most cases, skylight installation is considered a capital improvement — not a repair. That means it may be tax-deductible if it’s part of a home office or rental property, but check with your accountant or tax adviser to be sure.
Summary: How Much to Install a Skylight in Adelaide?
Here’s the short version:
- Basic fixed skylight: $800 – $2,000
- Venting skylight: $1,200 – $3,500
- Solar or electric skylight: $2,000 – $5,000+
- Tubular skylight: $600 – $1,500
- Custom build: $3,000 – $8,000+
Prices vary based on the roof type, access, ceiling depth, and features.
Need a Skylight Installed in Adelaide?
VSky provides professional skylight installation services across Adelaide. Whether you want a basic sun tunnel or a full Velux solar-powered system, we help you choose the right option for your home and budget.
Visit vsky.com.au to request a free quote or talk to a local expert.
