v3.6.0.2
Document and Entity Information - USD ($)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Feb. 10, 2017
Jun. 30, 2016
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]      
Entity Registrant Name HUBBELL INCORPORATED    
Entity Central Index Key 0000048898    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2016    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Document Type 10-K    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2016    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding (shares)   55,446,167  
Entity Well Known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Public Float     $ 5,763,377,247