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Rewiring and upgrades

How Much Does It Cost to Rewire a House?

It's one of the first questions anyone asks after hearing the word 'rewire'. Here are honest, indicative figures – and the things that make the biggest difference.

3 min read · Updated October 2026

Cut-away house showing new cables in the walls, with stacks of pound coins and a calculator

Ballpark figures

These are broad, indicative ranges for the electrical work in a full rewire, including a new consumer unit. They're a guide for budgeting, not a quote:

Indicative UK full rewire costs (electrical work only)
PropertyTypical range
One or two-bedroom flat£3,000–£5,000
Two-bedroom terraced house£4,000–£6,500
Three-bedroom semi£5,000–£9,000
Four-bedroom detached house£7,000–£12,000

Indicative UK full rewire costs (electrical work only)

What moves the price

  • Size – more rooms means more circuits, cable and testing
  • How many sockets, switches and lights you want
  • Whether the house is empty or you're living in it
  • Wall and floor construction – solid floors and stone walls take longer
  • Extras like downlights, outdoor lighting, data cabling or an EV charger circuit
  • Where you live – London and the South East tend to cost more

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The extras people forget

The biggest one is making good. Rewiring means channels in walls and lifted floorboards. Many quotes include rough filling but not plastering or finishing, which can add a fair amount. Floor coverings may need lifting and refitting too.

Check whether the quote covers smoke alarms, building regulations notification and certification, and removal of old materials.

Ways to keep it sensible

Rewire before plastering, flooring and new kitchens so you only make a mess once. Get an EICR first – sometimes a partial rewire is enough. Decide on socket and light positions early so the electrician can price accurately and avoid changes mid-job.

Common questions

Is a partial rewire cheaper?

Usually, if the rest of the wiring tests satisfactorily. Otherwise it can be a false economy.

Does a rewire add value to a house?

It doesn't always add much on paper, but old wiring can put buyers off and affect offers. Certificates showing a recent rewire are reassuring.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

A deposit for materials on larger jobs is common. Avoid paying the full amount up front.

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