Replacing all the wiring in a house is a significant job but one that many property owners will be faced with at some point.

While it may sound daunting, a rewire ensures your electrical system is safe, efficient and legally compliant.

To help you plan for the work, we’ve set out the most important aspects. We discuss how long it takes to rewire a house, how much to budget and what’s involved. Firstly, we look at how to know if your property is due for a rewire.

How do you know if your house needs rewiring?

It’s recommended that houses are rewired every 25 years. Wiring degrades over time, so there comes a point when it needs to be replaced. Older electrical systems can increase the risk of fires and shocks.

However, there may be instances where a rewire is needed earlier than this. Signs that you might need to consider having your house rewired include:

• You experience shocks from power outlets/switches
• Fuses are regularly blowing
• Lights flicker or dim
• Exposed or damaged wires are visible
• An electrical report or assessment flags safety issues

Further reasons for rewiring

In addition to safety, reasons for undertaking a house rewire include legal compliance, improved energy efficiency and the addition of smart technology.

While a recent rewire might not boost your property’s value, it may be a good selling point. A buyer is likely to prefer a property which has been recently rewired over one with 20-year-old wiring which will soon need to be replaced.

If you’re a landlord, you are responsible for ensuring the safety of your rental properties, including the electrical system and, under the law, must obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report. You will need to contact your tenants well ahead of time to discuss the work.

What does rewiring a house involve?

The wiring in your property extends behind the walls of your house like a network, supplying all sockets, light fittings and wired-in appliances, In addition to replacing all of this wiring, a house rewire typically involves:

• Removal of old fittings
• Installation of new fittings
• Installation of a new consumer unit (fusebox)
• Testing and certification

Electrical wiring is covered by BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations – the latest edition is the 18th) and Part P of the Building Regulations (for England & Wales). An experienced and qualified electrician will ensure that the work is compliant with these requirements.

How long to rewire a house​?

So, how long does it take to rewire a house? This is dependent on several factors, notably the size of the property. For a one-bedroom house, it might take four to seven days. Meanwhile, for a five-bedroom property, it may be closer to 10 days or two weeks.

Another factor which could affect how long it will take to rewire a house is the layout. For example, flats on middle floors can be challenging given the access requirements. The wall materials, number of fittings and the age of the property are also factors.

Similarly, when it comes to budget, the cost will depend on the scope and scale of the job. It could run anywhere from £3,000 to £10,000+.

The cost will generally cover labour and materials, to include:

• Fittings
• Wiring (including clips and conduits)
• Consumer unit

What does the work not include?

Typically, the cost of the rewire will not include any work which arises from the job. For example, major re-plastering, decorating or replacing carpet and flooring. You will need to source separate quotes for these jobs.

The best advice is to contact a professional electrician (one who is experienced in house rewires) for an accurate assessment of the time and costs involved in rewiring your property. They will also confirm what is – and what is not – included in the quoted price.

Can you live in your house during the rewire?

You can usually remain in the property during the work, though there will be major disruption. As well as the presence of tradespeople, expect noise, dust and general hassle as walls and floors are cut through to access the wiring.

Naturally, the electricity supply will be shut off while the rewire takes place. It may be possible to isolate the power to each room so the house is habitable.

However, the recommended option is to find somewhere else to live while the work is being carried out, especially if you have children and/or pets in the home. This way, you will be comfortable and the electricians can work without interruption. If you do plan to stay, pets should be rehoused for the duration of the work.

Any dust and mess created will be cleared up at the end of the job, but – as mentioned above – you will have to arrange for any restoration works to be carried out separately.

Preparing for a house rewire

As you can see, a house rewire is a significant undertaking. However, there are things you can do to help make sure the work goes as smoothly as possible, while keeping costs and disruption to a minimum. Here are a few tips:

1. During the planning stage, confirm with the electrician the number of lights, switches and sockets required and their placement to avoid problems later.
2. Make a list of fittings and appliances in all rooms, areas and outbuildings to ensure nothing gets missed.
3. Ahead of the work, make sure small items are packed away, furniture is moved and the loft cleared to give the tradespeople easy access.
4. It’s a good idea to tell the neighbours about the work a few days ahead of time, so they can prepare for any disruption.
5. The planning stage offers a good opportunity to discuss any issues of concern, so don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have.

The most important part of a house rewiring is to choose a qualified and experienced electrician. This way, you enjoy full peace of mind that the work will be undertaken professionally and safely.

Don’t take chances with your house rewire – call in the experts

NAPIT-accredited and TrustMark-approved, SparkPro Electrical has 15 years of experience in all aspects of domestic electrical work, including full house rewires. Based in Hammersmith, we provide services to properties of all sizes across West London.

Contact us today for a no-obligation quote or to learn more.