What To Expect During A Full House Rewire

There is no fixed age at which a home automatically needs a full rewire. The condition of the electrical installation matters more than its age alone. A qualified electrician can inspect and test the installation, explain any defects and advise whether repairs, partial replacement or a full rewire are appropriate.

Burning smells, scorch marks, repeated tripping, buzzing or exposed wiring need prompt professional attention. These symptoms do not, by themselves, prove that the whole house needs rewiring. Do not touch exposed wiring or keep resetting a repeatedly tripping protective device. If there is smoke or fire, leave the property and call 999.

As it’s a relatively big job, it’s important to know what to expect from a full rewire so you can properly prepare for any potential disruption that may take place. The amount of disruption and the length of time it takes to complete the job will naturally depend on the size and layout of the property.

Stage 1: The First Fix

The first stage of the process is often referred to as the First Fix, where the wiring is replaced and installed, alongside back boxes for all the switches and sockets throughout the house.

Agree socket, lighting and control positions before first fix. Cabling routes and back boxes are normally prepared before plastering and final finishes. The scope may also include heating controls, data, alarms or outdoor circuits, depending on the quotation. Confirm who is responsible for lifting floors, chasing walls and making good afterwards.

A house rewire is not a DIY project. Use a qualified, competent electrician and check their registration and the scope of their work. Ask how testing, certification and any required Building Regulations notification will be handled.

If you’ve just moved into a new house and it’s apparent that a rewire is necessary, it’s advisable to do this as early on as you can, before decorating or bringing in furniture, to make it as easy and efficient as possible.

Do not assume a standard home-buying survey includes detailed electrical inspection and testing. Ask what has actually been checked and request any existing electrical certificates. Where the condition is uncertain, arrange a separate Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) with a qualified electrician before deciding what work is needed.

Stage 2: The Second Fix

Second fix includes fitting and connecting the specified sockets, switches, lights and other accessories once the relevant finishes are ready. The electrician inspects and tests the completed work to verify electrical safety and compliance; testing is not simply a check that the lights turn on.

Electrical Installation Certificate

For a full rewire, obtain the Electrical Installation Certificate and its inspection and test schedules. Ask for any applicable Building Regulations compliance documentation as well. Keep these records with the property documents, and ask the electrician to explain the controls, circuit labels and recommended future inspection arrangements.

Further guidance: Electrical Safety First’s answers to electrical safety questions and NICEIC’s homeowner guide to rewiring.

Planning a rewire or wider upgrade? Explore our electrical installation service, or arrange an EICR to understand the property’s current condition first.