Rewiring a house is one of the most significant electrical jobs a homeowner can undertake. Whether you're buying an older property, extending your home, or upgrading an outdated electrical system, understanding the costs involved helps you budget appropriately and avoid unexpected expenses.
House Rewiring Costs by Property Type
The cost of rewiring depends largely on the size and type of your property, along with factors such as accessibility and the condition of existing wiring. Below is a guide to typical costs in 2026:
| Property Type | Estimated Cost Range | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom flat | £2,500 – £3,500 | 2–3 days |
| 2-bedroom terrace | £3,500 – £4,500 | 3–5 days |
| 3-bedroom semi-detached | £5,000 – £6,500 | 5–7 days |
| 4-bedroom detached | £7,000 – £10,000 | 7–10 days |
What's Included in a Full Rewire?
A complete house rewire typically includes:
- Removal of all old wiring
- Installation of new twin-and-earth cables throughout
- Replacement of the consumer unit (fuse board) with a modern unit featuring MCBs and RCD protection
- Installation of new socket outlets and light switches
- Wiring for lighting fixtures including pendant holders
- Installation of smoke detectors and heat alarms
- Earth bonding to gas and water supplies
- Testing and certification (Electrical Installation Certificate)
Factors Affecting the Cost
Several factors can influence the final price of your rewire:
- Property age – Older properties may have wiring that is more difficult to remove
- Accessibility – Properties with suspended floors or accessible lofts are easier to wire
- Number of rooms – More rooms mean more circuits and more labour
- Location – London and the South East tend to be more expensive
- Consumer unit upgrades – If your fuse board also needs replacing, this adds to the cost
When Is Rewiring Necessary?
You should consider rewiring your property if:
- The wiring is over 30 years old
- You have old rubber or fabric-insulated cables
- You're renovating or extending your property
- The consumer unit uses old-style fuses rather than MCBs
- You notice frequent circuit breaker trips or burning smells
- You're selling your property and the survey highlights electrical concerns
How to Get Quotes
Always obtain at least three quotes from qualified electricians. Ensure they are NICEIC or NAPIT registered, as this guarantees they can self-certify their work under Part P regulations. Ask for a detailed breakdown including materials and labour, and confirm whether the price includes testing and certification.
Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best – quality of workmanship and compliance with regulations should be your primary concern when it comes to electrical safety.