How Much Does Rewiring a House Cost?

Rewiring a house is a significant task that can improve safety and functionality, but it comes with various costs. In Edinburgh, as with most places in the UK, the cost of rewiring a home can vary depending on the size of the property, the complexity of the job, and the electrician’s rates. Understanding the factors that influence the cost will help you budget for this essential electrical upgrade.

Average Cost of Rewiring a House

In general, rewiring a typical three-bedroom house in Edinburgh costs between £3,000 and £5,500. The price can be higher for larger homes or those with complex wiring needs. For a smaller one or two-bedroom property, costs tend to be in the range of £2,000 to £3,000. These figures include labour, materials, and often a safety certificate upon completion.

Factors Influencing Rewiring Costs

Several factors influence how much you will pay for rewiring a house:

1. Size of the Property

Larger homes require more wiring, sockets, and time, which increases the overall cost.

2. Number of Sockets and Light Fixtures

The more outlets and lights that need to be rewired or installed, the higher the cost. An electrician may charge around £80 to £120 per socket, depending on the complexity.

3. Accessibility

If the wiring is difficult to access—such as in homes with concrete walls or complicated layouts—labour costs can increase. This is common in older buildings or loft conversions where new wiring may need to be run.

4. Extent of the Work

Full rewiring involves replacing all the electrical wiring in your home, installing new consumer units (fuse boxes), and sometimes rewiring external connections like garage doors or outbuildings. If only certain rooms or areas need rewiring, the cost will be lower.

5. Additional Upgrades

You may need to include other electrical upgrades, such as new lighting, switches, or security systems, which can add to the cost.

Labour Costs

Labour usually makes up a significant portion of the rewiring cost. Electricians in Edinburgh typically charge between £40 to £70 per hour, depending on experience and the scope of the job. Some may also charge a flat fee for larger rewiring projects. It’s always a good idea to get quotes from several electricians to compare rates and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

Additional Costs to Consider

  • Plastering and Re-Decoration: Rewiring often involves lifting floorboards and channelling into walls. Once the work is complete, you may need to hire plasterers or decorators to restore the property to its original state, which can add several hundred pounds to the total cost.
  • Electrical Inspection: After rewiring, you should receive an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) or a similar certificate that confirms the wiring meets safety standards. This report typically costs between £100 and £300 but may be included in your overall quote.

Is It Worth Rewiring Your Home?

Rewiring can significantly improve safety by replacing outdated or damaged wiring. Homes with older wiring systems are at a higher risk of electrical faults, which can lead to fires or other hazards. Modern wiring also supports the increased demand for electrical appliances, ensuring your home can handle the load.

If you’re considering a house extension or upgrading to modern amenities like garden rooms or smart lighting, rewiring is often necessary to ensure your electrical system can accommodate these additions.

How to Save on Rewiring Costs

  • Plan Ahead: If you’re already renovating or adding a loft conversion, this is the ideal time to rewire, as much of the disruptive work will already be taking place.
  • Obtain Multiple Quotes: Comparing quotes from several qualified electricians can help you find a reasonable price for the job.
  • Do It in Stages: If a full rewire isn’t feasible due to cost, consider tackling the project in stages, starting with the areas that need it most.

Conclusion

The cost of rewiring a house in Edinburgh varies depending on the size of the property, the complexity of the wiring, and additional factors like redecoration or inspection fees. Expect to pay anywhere from £2,000 to £5,500 or more for a full rewire. It’s a worthwhile investment, especially if your home has outdated wiring that poses safety risks. Always ensure you hire a qualified electrician and get a clear breakdown of costs before starting the project.