Adding an electrical outlet next to an existing light switch is easy, as long as there is a neutral wire in the box.

Adding an electrical outlet next to an existing light switch is easy, as long as there is a neutral wire in the box.

Step 1: Turn the power supply off to the light switch at the main electrical Panel Wiring Accessories.

Step 2: Remove the switch plate and unscrew the switch from the outlet box.

Step 3: Pull the switch out from the box. If there is a bundle of two white wires tied together behind the switch and two separate wires running to the switch, it will be easy to add an outlet.

Step 4: Use a voltage sensor to ensure that the power to the box is off by touching the sensor to each wire separately.

Step 5: Mark the two wires attached to the switch with electrical tape and disconnect the wires from the switch.

Step 6: Remove the existing outlet box and replace it with a double outlet box.

Step 7: Remove the wire nut connecting the two neutral wires in the back of the box （Wall Mount Outlet Box）and add a third white wire to the mix. Twist the wires together and cap them with a wire nut. Attach the loose end of the new wire to the silver screw on the new outlet.

Step 8: Attach two short black wires to the black wire that was originally on the gold screw of the switch. This should be the hot wire. Twist the three wires together and cap them with a wire nut. Attach the loose end of one new wire to the gold screw on the switch and attach the loose end of the second new wire to the gold screw on the outlet.

Step 9: Reattach the white wire that was originally on the switch to the silver screw on the switch.

Step 10: If there was a ground wire attached to the switch, attach two short green or bare wires to it and cap all three with a wire nut. Run the loose end of one ground wire to the green screw on the switch and run the loose end of the second wire to the green screw on the outlet.

Step 11: Once all the wires are attached, press the switch and outlet into the new box. Secure them with their mounting screws.

Step 12: Turn the power on and ensure everything is working properly before attaching the new cover plate.