When it comes to home improvements, rewiring a house is an essential task that can significantly impact the safety and functionality of a property. As technology advances and our reliance on electrical devices increases, the electrical demands in our homes have grown as well. Therefore, having a modern, safe, and efficient wiring system is of utmost importance. In the UK, the cost of rewiring a house varies depending on factors such as the size of the property, the accessibility of the electrical circuits, and the location within the country.
The process of rewiring involves replacing old or unsafe electrical wiring, sockets, and switches, ensuring that the household meets current building regulations and safety standards. For homeowners planning to undertake this project, it’s essential to understand the estimated costs and duration, which vary depending on the size and complexity of the task. For instance, Checkatrade estimates that rewiring a one-bedroom flat falls between £3,000 and £4,800 and takes about 4-7 days, while a three-bedroom house can range from £4,450 to £8,000.
Aside from the actual rewiring process, there are additional costs to consider, such as hiring an electrician, obtaining building regulations approval, and potentially hiring other tradespeople like decorators or builders to restore any damage incurred during the rewiring. By being knowledgeable about the costs and processes involved, homeowners can be better prepared to make informed decisions when embarking on the important task of rewiring their house.
Factors Affecting the Cost
When considering the cost of rewiring a house, several factors come into play, which can influence the overall expense of the project. These include:
House size: As a general rule of thumb, larger houses require more wiring, plug sockets, power points, lights, and larger consumer units. This results in a higher cost for rewiring. For instance, rewiring a three-bedroom house typically costs between £4,450 – £8,000, while prices for a one-bedroom flat range from £3,000 – £4,800.
Property layout: Houses with multiple floors or complex architectural designs can be harder and more time-consuming to rewire than single-storey buildings or those with simpler layouts. The complexity involved in a house with multiple floors can lead to increased costs.
Age and construction material of the property: Older properties or those built with specific materials, such as timber or stone, may require additional work or specialised methods for rewiring. This can further increase the overall cost of the project.
Occupancy: Whether or not the home is occupied during the rewiring process can significantly impact the cost. If a property is empty, electricians can work more efficiently, potentially lowering the cost. On the other hand, if a homeowner continues to live in the property, the electrician must work around their schedule, and extra precautions must be taken to minimise disruption. This can lead to higher expenses.
Geographical location: The cost of rewiring a house may also vary depending on the area in which it is located. Some regions may have higher labour fees or other costs associated with the work required for rewiring.
Average Costs
The cost of rewiring a house in the UK varies depending on factors such as the size of the property, location, and accessibility. Here, we provide an overview of the average costs for different types of properties.
For a one-bedroom flat, the rewiring cost typically ranges between £2,000 and £3,900. A two-bedroom flat is estimated to cost between £3,000 and £4,800, and the process could take up to five days to complete. Meanwhile, a three-bedroom house’s rewiring cost is on average between £4,450 and £8,000, with a duration of 6 to 10 days.
For larger properties, such as a detached four-bedroom house, the average cost increases to about £5,500 and may take up to 2 weeks to complete. In general, the cost per additional bedroom can be around £600 to £1,000 extra.
Some other factors that may impact the cost of rewiring a house include:
- Complexity of the wiring layout
- Whether the property is occupied during the rewiring process
- Quality of materials and fittings
- Proximity to qualified electricians
Note that these are average costs and actual prices may vary depending on individual circumstances, so it is always recommended to obtain quotes from multiple accredited electricians to ensure you receive the best value for your rewiring project.
Rewiring Process
The rewiring process consists of several steps, from the initial inspection to the final touches. First, an electrical inspection is conducted to assess the existing wiring system and determine the necessary work to be done. This will help establish a clear plan and cost estimate for the rewiring project.
Once the plan is made, the electrician will start by removing the old wiring from the property. This may involve taking down wall coverings or flooring to access the wires. It is essential to safely disconnect power during this stage to prevent electrical hazards. The next step is to install new wires, sockets, switches, and light fixtures throughout the house, following the updated electrical plan.
After installation, the rewiring process moves on to testing and inspection. The electrician checks the newly installed system for proper functioning and safety. This involves conducting tests on circuits, earth continuity, and insulation resistance to ensure compliance with British Standard BS 7671 regulations.
Lastly, once a satisfactory inspection is completed, the electrician will issue an Electrical Installation Certificate, proving the property’s wiring system meets the necessary safety standards. Homeowners can then arrange for any necessary repairs or redecoration to return their property to its pre-rewiring state.
Hiring an Electrician
When planning to rewire a house, it is essential to hire a competent and fully qualified electrician. The cost of rewiring a house varies depending on the size and complexity of the property. For example, the average cost to rewire a one-bedroom flat ranges between £3,000 and £4,800, while a three-bedroom house can cost between £4,450 and £8,000.
Before hiring an electrician, it is vital to request quotes from several professionals to compare prices and services. It is also helpful to check their credentials, experience, and customer reviews. A registered electrician should be a member of a government-approved scheme, such as NICEIC, ELECSA, or NAPIT.
When requesting a quote, ensure that it includes the cost of materials, labour, and any applicable taxes. Some ways to save money when hiring an electrician include:
- Grouping tasks together to minimise additional call-out fees
- Providing clear access to the work area to reduce labour time
- Seeking recommendations from friends and family for trustworthy electricians
It is essential to know what the rewiring process entails. Typical tasks include removing the old wiring, installing new cables and circuitry, fitting new sockets and switches, and commissioning the new system after the work has been completed. The electrician should also provide an Electrical Installation Certificate and notify the local building control authority about the work done.
Remember that safety is paramount when rewiring a house. Hiring a qualified and reputable electrician will ensure that the job is completed to a high standard and complies with all current regulations, reducing any potential risks and providing peace of mind to homeowners.
Saving Tips
If you’re looking to save money on rewiring your house in the UK, consider the following cost-efficient strategies.
1. Compare quotes from different electricians: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Get estimates from multiple electricians to ensure you’re getting a competitive price for your rewiring project.
2. Schedule rewiring during a home renovation: If you’re already planning a renovation, you can minimize costs by coordinating the rewiring project with other home improvement tasks. Combining efforts can reduce the overall disruption and labour expenses.
3. Maintain good communication with your electrician: Be upfront about your budget and requirements to ensure your electrician provides the most efficient solution. Discuss potential cost-saving options and ask for advice on keeping expenses low.
4. Choose energy-efficient materials and appliances: Opt for LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and smart technology to help reduce long-term electricity consumption and lower your energy bills.
By following these tips, you can successfully manage the cost of rewiring your house in the UK while ensuring a safe and reliable electrical system for years to come.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost of rewiring a house in the UK varies depending on factors such as the size of the property and its age. A typical price for rewiring a three-bedroom terraced house ranges from approximately £3,500 to £5,000. For a two-bedroom property, you can expect costs to fall between £4,000 and £4,800.
It is important to consider the potential upheaval involved in rewiring a home, as well as the long-term benefits of upgrading the property’s electrical system. Working with a qualified professional will ensure that the rewiring process is completed safely and to current regulations.
When budgeting for a rewiring project, homeowners should allocate additional funds for any unexpected complications that may arise. By doing so, they can ensure a smooth and efficient process, ultimately providing a safer and more efficient electrical system for their home.
Overall, rewiring costs depend on the specifics of the property, the complexity of the work, and the location within the UK, but with proper planning and execution, such a project can be a valuable investment in the long-term safety and value of the home.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an electrician, we offer a range of electrician training aimed at both experienced electricians and new entrants.
