Rewiring Your Swindon Home

Our skilled electricians can perform many aspects of electrical work, from repairing or replacing sockets or fittings, to modifying and replacing circuits. One of the most complex, however, is probably rewiring and even more so in an already occupied home. However, there are no strict rules. Just because the wiring is old does not mean it is not safe. Wear and tear can vary depending on the type of material and previous use. A regular inspection by a licensed electrician is recommended at least every ten years for a house occupied by the owner and five years for a rented property or when the rental contract changes.

When is a rewire necessary?

Complete rewiring should be considered if a property is more than 25 years old and has not been modernized to meet current requirements. If a major renovation is required and represents a significant change as defined by building regulations, it is likely that some or all of the property will need to be rewired. This would include updating the consumer unit. If a property is enlarged or a garage or attic is extended, it is be considered as a new building. Therefore any new wiring must comply with Part P: Electrical Safety. Existing wiring must be upgraded to ensure that it can safely carry additional loads. 

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How much does it cost to rewire a house?
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​All new wiring can cost several thousand pounds for a small plot and much more for a large house. However, complete rewiring can often be avoided if the existing wiring is solid and capable of carrying additional loads. Older systems can be upgraded by adding a modern power section. New consumer units can be tested, installed, and certified for around £400. When an old fuse box is replaced by a modern consumer unit, it is often necessary to improve the system's earth connection. Residential electricians often work at a fixed price, depending on the expected duration of the work, and it is often possible to agree rates for each additional switch, power point, or light fitting.

What are the other issues to consider?

Rewiring can cause serious interruptions, so it is best to leave the rooms empty during the process. It may be necessary to tear off flooring and planks and run pipes through the walls, as it is not possible to lay new cables on the surface. If new wiring is required, it should be carried out before plastering and decorating and approximately at the same time as sanitary and central heating systems are installed. In addition to rewiring for electricity and lighting, it is important to ensure that there are enough switches and sockets to meet all the needs.
The wiring as well as any electrical installations or modifications in your home (or any other property type) must be carried out by a competent and qualified electrician. Make sure you choose the right home electrical company so you don't get any nasty surprises down the road.