How much does it cost to rewire a house in 2023?

An electrical rewire is an intrusive bit of maintenance that improves the safety, functionality and efficiency of the electrical system in a house. A full rewire is rarely needed, as most properties, even old homes, are wired with suitable, long-life material.

There are, however, some instances where a rewire may be required. So how much does it cost to get this procedure done?

Three signs you might need a rewire…

1. Obsolescence

Electrical regulations have evolved over time, reflecting our increasing knowledge of the field. During certain periods, substandard materials were commonly used, while in others, they were not.

The presence of rubber and fabric cables in your existing wiring is often an indicator that your electrical system is due for an upgrade. Likewise, an outdated consumer unit (fuse box) featuring ceramic switches may signal the need for an update.

In contrast, contemporary properties typically feature a decentralised electrical system, complete with separate circuits, circuit breakers, and a distribution panel.

2. Poor workmanship

If previous property owners conducted subpar installations, your electrical wiring could be compromised. Signs of faulty wiring resulting from shoddy workmanship include smoking or sparking electrical components, flickering light fixtures, and frequent tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses.

3. Renovations

When you're already undertaking significant renovations in your property, it can be a logical opportunity to modernise your electrical system. For instance, if you're adding an extension, it often makes sense to update the older parts of your home's electrical infrastructure as well.

Electrical rewiring costs and fees in 2023

In recent years, the expenses linked to various trades have witnessed a noticeable uptick, and the cost to rewire a house is no exception.

During our conversations with electricians in both Manchester and London, we received quotes ranging from £4,500 to as high as £8,000 for a comprehensive rewiring project on a 3-bedroom property. It's important to note that house rewiring costs can fluctuate significantly based on factors such as property size, floor plan, and location.

A common approach among electricians is to charge homeowners on a per-point basis, which includes sockets, switches, and other elements. Rates for this service typically range from £45 to £65 per point, with additional costs incurred for materials such as cables and boxes.

These quotes are often itemised to provide a breakdown of both material and labour costs.

If you're considering a rewiring project, it's a good idea to receive a free quote from a local electrician. In fact, receive a couple - it'll give you a better idea of local house rewiring prices.

It's worth nothing that you'll need to factor in plastering and decorating to your total rewiring cost. Rewiring is a messy job, and your electrician's quote may not include clean up - which is why it's always best to check things through with the electrician before you hire them.

Choosing your electrician

We always recommend choosing a qualified electrician who is registered with a recognised body like the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) or the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA).

These certifications demonstrate that the electrician has passed the necessary training to perform electrical work safely and in compliance with current regulations.

We also recommend checking if the electrician has a Part P certification. The certificate indicates their competence in domestic electrical work, including rewiring.

I suspect my property is badly wired - where do I start?

If you suspect that your property may need rewiring or if you have concerns about its electrical safety, it's a good idea to start with an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).

An Electrical Installation Condition Report determines your electrical systems in your home are in satisfactory condition for use. In an EICR test, your electrics are tested against Building Regulations BS 7671 or IET Wiring Regulations, the standards for UK residential electrical installations.

How much does an EICR cost?

The average cost of an EICR for a 3-bedroom house in the UK typically ranged from £100 to £300, but it could be higher or lower based on the size and complexity of your electrical installation, the region in which your property is located, and the specific rates charged by suppliers and electricians.

Some suppliers will charge a flat-rate fee while others charge according to the scope of the work.

Who can I get an EICR from?

Homeowners can request an EICR from a qualified, registered electrician or contractor. A quick Google search should reveal some of the most popular in your local area.

To ensure their customer satisfaction is high, make sure you read their Google reviews. As with a rewire, you want to make sure that the electrician has credentials that are recognised as a government-approved competent person scheme, such as the NICEIC.

Will rewiring a house add value to the property?

It's less that rewiring will add value to the property, but a bad electrical system will detract from the property's value.

Potential buyers or tenants often expect a property's electrical system to be in good working order. If a property has an outdated or problematic electrical system, it can deter potential buyers, resulting in lower offers.

So, while rewiring itself may not lead to a direct increase in market value, it can help ensure that the property is more attractive to potential buyers, preventing its value from being negatively impacted. Additionally, quality wiring contributes to the overall safety and functionality of the home, which is essential for maintaining market appeal.

Do you need to rewire your property to sell it?

No, a full house rewire is not necessary for a residential property sale. Electrical safety isn't a legal requirement in a property transaction. For more information, check out our comprehensive blog on the subject!

If you're a landlord, it's a legal requirement for you to obtain an EICR for any rental properties under your ownership. This report serves as proof that you're committed to ensuring the safety of the electrical systems in your rental units.

If an EICR uncovers any issues or potential hazards, landlords are obligated to take swift action by conducting the necessary remedial work. This is to ensure the rental property is not just safe, but compliant with current safety standards.

Following the EICR, landlords are expected to provide a copy to the tenant. New tenants should receive the report before moving in, while existing tenants should receive it within 28 days of the inspection.

Summary: A necessary expense

In short, the cost to rewire a house can be substantial. However, when it comes to ensuring your safety and peace of mind, it becomes a necessary expense that should never be overlooked. An investment in a well-maintained and up-to-date electrical system is an investment in your home's safety and the well-being of its occupants.