How Much Does It Cost to Rewire a House in 2026?

If you have been told your home needs rewiring, the first question is usually about cost. The answer depends on the size of the property, the complexity of the work, and the condition of the existing installation. This guide breaks down realistic figures for 2026.

Typical rewiring costs by property size

These figures are based on typical domestic properties in Kingston, Surrey, and South West London. They include all cables, sockets, light fittings, a new consumer unit, testing, and certification.

• One-bedroom flat: £1,800 to £3,000
• Two-bedroom flat or terraced house: £2,500 to £4,000
• Three-bedroom semi-detached: £3,500 to £5,500
• Four-bedroom detached: £5,000 to £8,000
• Five-bedroom or larger: £7,000 to £12,000+

These are guide prices. Every property is different, and a site inspection is the only way to get an accurate quote.

What affects the cost of a rewire

Property size and layout

More rooms means more circuits, more cable, and more labour. A straightforward layout is faster to rewire than a property with multiple floors, unusual room shapes, or difficult access points.

Number of circuits

A standard three-bedroom house typically has 8 to 12 circuits. If you want additional circuits for an electric shower, an EV charger, a home office, or a garden room, the cost increases accordingly.

Condition of existing wiring

If the existing wiring is particularly old (pre-1960s rubber or lead sheathing), removal can be more time-consuming. Properties where wiring has been added to over the decades often take longer as the electrician needs to trace and remove redundant cables.

Floor and wall construction

Timber-framed floors with accessible voids are easier and cheaper to rewire than solid concrete floors. Similarly, cavity walls are easier to route cables through than solid brick walls, which may require chasing or surface-mounted trunking.

Access

If the property is occupied and furnished, the electrician needs to work around belongings. An empty property is faster and therefore cheaper to rewire. Loft access and the location of the consumer unit also affect ease of work.

Specification

A basic rewire with standard white sockets and switches is cheaper than a specification that includes USB-integrated outlets, brushed chrome faceplates, smart dimmer switches, or additional data points.

What’s included in a rewire

A full rewire should include:

• Removal of old wiring (where accessible)
• New cable runs to every room
• New consumer unit with RCBO and SPD protection
• New sockets, switches, and light fittings
• Earthing and bonding to current standards
• Full testing of every circuit
• An Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)
• Part P Building Regulations notification

It should not include plastering, painting, or decoration. These are separate trades and are done after the electrical first fix is complete.

What’s not included (and often forgotten)

• Plastering and making good. Budget £500 to £1,500 depending on the extent of chasing.
• Decoration. Every room will need some redecoration after a rewire.
• Carpet and flooring. Floorboards may need lifting. Some may need replacing.
• Temporary accommodation. If you choose to move out during first fix.

How to get an accurate quote

A responsible electrician will not give you a fixed price over the phone. They need to see the property, assess the existing installation, and understand your requirements. A good quote should:

• Specify the number and type of sockets, switches, and light points in every room
• State the type and specification of the consumer unit
• Confirm whether earthing and bonding is included
• State what certification is provided on completion
• Be a fixed price, not a day rate

Get at least two quotes, but be cautious about quotes that seem significantly cheaper than others. Ask what is and is not included.

Can you reduce the cost?

A partial rewire is an option if the main cable runs are in reasonable condition. Upgrading specific areas (kitchen, bathroom, or an extension) while leaving sound wiring elsewhere can reduce costs significantly.

Another way to reduce cost is to have the rewire done while the property is empty, such as before you move in or during a renovation when the house is already stripped back.

Is a rewire worth it?

A rewire is one of the most important investments you can make in an older property. It eliminates fire risk from degraded cables, provides modern protection against electric shock, supports the electrical demands of a modern household, and adds value to your home.

If you are buying a property and the survey raises concerns about the wiring, use this as a negotiation point. The cost of a rewire is well understood and can be factored into your offer.

Next steps

If you think your home may need rewiring, an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is the best starting point. This inspection will confirm whether a rewire is needed and identify which areas are the priority.

Contact us for a free assessment and detailed quote. We cover Kingston, Richmond, Twickenham, Surbiton, and surrounding areas.