A Guide to Electrically Rewiring Your Home

An electrical rewire replaces some or all of the electrical wiring of a house in order to maintain safety and prevent dangerous hazards, such as faulty wiring. When unnoticed, such faults could lead to structural damage or fires, particularly in older properties. An electrical rewire will update your property to match today's standards, thereby increasing your safety and potentially providing you with additional and more conveniently placed electrical outlets. It can also include features such as modern safety devices and fuse boards that will provide protection from electric shocks and fire.

-Rewirings are necessary approximately every 20-25 years.
-Failed electrical inspections.
-Insurance requirements.
-Continuous problems such as tripping RCDs or constantly blowing fuses.
-Buzzing noises or over heating from electrical sockets.
-Electrical appliances turning on and off or lights flickering.
-Electricity or appliances stop functioning in one (or more) areas of the home.
-Outdated, black rubber-coated wiring (which can be over 50 years old).

There are several questions that determine the cost of rewiring a house, such as:
-What is the cost of hiring a licensed electrician?
-How much does a building permit to rewire a house cost in your area?
-Will you need to install a new electrical panel?
-How much will the materials cost to rewire the house?

Rewiring a house can be a very time-consuming project and therefore it goes without saying that hiring an experienced, licensed electrician is worth the investment. Be sure to ask for references, and ensure the electrical contractor is licensed and properly insured. The rewiring of a home is a large project both in terms of time and financial investment, so you want to make sure you're in excellent hands for the process.

An advantage of hiring a local electrician to rewire your home is that he is already familiar with local permitting processes. A licensed electrical contractor knows when it is necessary to obtain a permit, and which permits are needed for your project. The permit will cost the same whether the electrician or homeowner obtains it - the difference is that a local electrician knows precisely what permits are necessary in your area. If the house's wiring is based on fuses, then an updated electrical panel will need to be installed, increasing the overall cost.

Materials Involved to Rewire a House:
Homeowners also need to account for extra costs, such as new light switches, sockets and light fixtures. Some electricians may include these additional costs in the quote, and some may not. Homeowners can save a small amount of money if the existing switch plates and outlet covers can be used. However, new outlets and switches will need to be installed. The copper wire used to rewire a house is expensive and depending on the size of your home, can add up quickly.

Be sure to get at least three quotes for the rewiring of your house. The quote should be clear, and outline everything that will be included for the job. Be sure to keep a safe copy of the inspection report, as it will be needed for insurance purposes and if you ever plan to sell your house. Although it's an investment in both money and time, rewiring your house will provide you with safety, increase the value of your home, and most importantly, provide you with piece of mind.