How to Move an Outlet in Drywall

Turn off the breaker connected to the outlet that you plan to move.

Prepare the outlet's new location. Use a pencil to trace the junction box along the wall to make a cutting guide. Use the drywall saw to cut the drywall so that it fits snugly around the new junction box.

Remove the original outlet's faceplate and run its wires to the new location. Use a slim rod to hook and pull the wires from the original outlet to its new location. Use additional electrical wiring if an extension is necessary. Pull the wiring through the new junction box and attach the junction box into the prepared drywall using the included screws.

Attach the old outlet receptacle to the relocated wires. Connect the black wire to the copper screw and the white wire to the silver screw. Attach the copper wire to the ground screw. Screw the receptacle into the new junction box.

Reattach the outlet's faceplate. Turn on the breaker to test the outlet.

Repair the original outlet's hole. Use a scrap piece of wood or a mesh as backing. Use drywall screws to anchor the replacement patch into the hole. Apply drywall compound over the patch. Use sand paper to even the patch with the surrounding drywall and ready it for paint.