House Rewire Costs at a Glance (2026)
| Property Size | Typical Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom flat | £1,500–£3,000 | 2–3 days |
| 2-bedroom house | £2,500–£4,500 | 3–5 days |
| 3-bedroom semi | £3,500–£6,000 | 5–7 days |
| 4-bedroom detached | £5,000–£8,500 | 7–10 days |
| 5-bedroom detached | £7,000–£11,000 | 10–14 days |
Prices include all new wiring, consumer unit (fuse board), sockets, switches, and lights. Replastering after chasing is separate — budget £800–£2,500 depending on how much wall is opened up.
What's Included in a Full Rewire?
- New consumer unit (split-load with RCDs and MCBs)
- All new cable throughout (twin and earth PVC)
- New sockets, switches, and light fittings throughout
- Cooker circuit and other high-load circuits
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (required under current Building Regs)
- Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) on completion
- Notification to Building Control (Part P requirement)
Not included: light fittings supply (usually you supply your own), replastering, redecoration, or specialist circuits (EV charger, hot tub, garden outbuilding).
Partial Rewire vs Full Rewire
A partial rewire replaces specific circuits or rooms rather than the whole house. Common scenarios:
- Single room rewire (extension or kitchen fit-out): £300–£800
- New consumer unit only: £400–£700
- Adding sockets to existing circuits: £80–£200 per socket
- EV charger installation: £500–£1,200 (see our separate guide)
If your installation is 25+ years old, a partial rewire may not be possible — older wiring may not meet current standards even if it's not the part being replaced. Your electrician should carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) first to advise.
The Disruption Reality
A full rewire is highly disruptive. Here's what to expect:
- Every room is affected — cables run through walls and under floors
- Chasing walls (cutting channels) is necessary unless you run surface conduit
- You'll be without power for periods during the work
- After the electrician finishes, a plasterer needs to make good all the chased walls
- Then redecoration throughout
Most homeowners have a full rewire done when they're moving in (before furniture arrives) or during a major refurbishment. Doing it in a lived-in home is possible but significantly more disruptive and sometimes more expensive.
Legal Requirements
All electrical work on a domestic property must comply with BS 7671 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations). A full rewire is notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations.
This means you must use either:
- A NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA or equivalent registered electrician (they self-certify), OR
- Any electrician, but with the work inspected and certified by Building Control (adds cost and time)
On completion, you must receive an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC). Without this, you'll struggle to sell the property and may void your buildings insurance. Always ask for the EIC before the electrician leaves.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rewire a 3-bedroom house in 2026?
A full rewire of a 3-bedroom semi-detached house typically costs £3,500–£6,000 for labour and materials. Replastering after the work adds £800–£2,500. Budget £5,000–£8,500 total for the whole project.
How long does a house rewire take?
A 3-bedroom house takes 5–7 days for the electrical work. Replastering adds 1–3 days. Allow 2–3 weeks total from start to decoration.
Does rewiring a house add value?
Not directly, but outdated wiring can reduce value and make a property unmortgageable. A modern rewire removes a buyer's objection and passes surveys cleanly.
Can I live in my house while it's being rewired?
Yes, but it's disruptive. You'll be without power in sections of the house for periods. Most people manage, but if you have young children or work from home, planning around the schedule helps.
What is an EICR and do I need one?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) assesses the condition of your existing wiring. It's required for rental properties every 5 years and recommended before buying an older home. Cost: £150–£300 depending on property size.
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