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Rewiring a House Securely

Liam Peters • February 26, 2025

Rewiring a House: When Is It Necessary?

Rewiring a house can be a significant expense due to the safety risks posed by damaged or deteriorating wiring. But how do you know when rewiring is necessary? There are no strict rules—having old wiring doesn’t automatically mean it’s unsafe. Wear and tear vary depending on the materials used and the property’s electrical history.


The Importance of Regular Electrical Inspections

It’s recommended that a qualified electrical contractor carries out a periodic inspection every 10 years for an owner-occupied property and every five years for a rented property or at the change of tenancy. Our team can assess whether your property requires rewiring and advise on cost-effective solutions.


Warning Signs That Your Home May Need Rewiring

If your house is old and has not been inspected for several years, rewiring may be necessary. Key signs to look out for include:


  • Circuit breakers tripping frequently
  • Minor electric shocks from sockets or switches
  • Flickering or dimming lights
  • Exposed or damaged wiring


If you notice any of these issues, get in touch with our team to discuss your rewire project. We can determine the extent of the work required and provide a cost estimate.


Urgent Signs That Require Immediate Attention

You should seek professional help straight away if:

  • Your property is more than 40 years old
  • You rely heavily on extension leads for power
  • You notice cracked or damaged sockets and switches
  • Your home has old-style two-prong sockets


Things to Consider Before Rewiring

Rewiring can cause significant disruption, so rooms should be cleared before work begins. Floorboards and carpets may need to be lifted, and walls may need to be chased if new wiring cannot be surface-mounted. If rewiring is required, it should be done before any plastering or decorating, ideally alongside other major works such as central heating or plumbing installation.

Beyond rewiring for power and lighting, it’s also worth ensuring your home has enough sockets and switches to meet modern demands, which can be a key consideration for future buyers.


Electrical Safety in Wet Areas

Kitchens, bathrooms, and other wet areas (such as swimming pools) pose the highest risk of electric shock. Special regulations apply to electrics in these spaces. For instance, shaver sockets must be positioned away from the splash zone of a shower, and no standard sockets should be installed in bathrooms. Instead, pull-cord switches should be used.


Electrical appliances in damp areas, such as light fittings and ventilation fans, must have appropriate moisture protection, known as Ingress Protection (IP). A qualified electrician will ensure all installations meet these safety standards.


Cost of Rewiring a House

The cost of rewiring a house varies, typically starting from several thousand pounds for a small property and increasing for larger homes. In some cases, a full rewire may not be necessary if the existing cables can support additional loads. Upgrading an outdated installation with a modern consumer unit is a more affordable alternative.


New consumer units, which improve electrical safety, can be installed, tested, and certified for around £350. However, replacing an old fuse box often requires upgrading the property’s earth bonding as well.


Most electricians charge a fixed price based on the time required to complete the work, with additional costs for extra sockets, lights, or switches.


What to Expect During a Rewire

Rewiring can involve anything from replacing light switches to installing entirely new circuits. Depending on your home’s condition, you may need a partial or full rewire.


Before work begins, remove items from the walls, and your electrician should provide dust sheets to protect furniture. The duration of the job depends on its complexity, but a full rewire typically takes around four days. Re-plastering may also be necessary and should be discussed during the planning stage.



Always Use a Qualified Electrician

Electrical work should never be attempted as a DIY project. Whether you need a minor repair or a full rewire, consult a professional who can offer expert advice and a tailored, cost-effective solution.


If your home has outdated wiring, don’t delay—having it upgraded promptly will ensure your safety. Get in touch with our team to discuss your rewire project, and we’ll ensure the job is completed to the highest standard.

Contact us

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