What to Expect During a Full-Home Electrical Rewire June 20, 2025 Rewiring a home is a major undertaking, but it’s one that can dramatically improve safety, efficiency, and your home's value. Whether you're upgrading an ageing system or planning a full renovation, knowing what to expect during the process can help you feel confident and prepared from start to finish. Your Guide to a Full-Home Electrical Rewire Assessing Your Existing Wiring Before any work begins, a full evaluation of your current electrical system is essential. A qualified electrician will check for: Visible damage such as frayed wires or discolouration Outdated panels that frequently trip or buzz under load Old wiring types like aluminium or knob-and-tube, especially in homes built before the 1970s Unsafe DIY modifications like uncovered junction boxes or exposed splices This assessment helps determine the scope of work and ensures the new system meets modern safety standards. Planning Your New Electrical Layout A successful rewire starts with a detailed plan. This includes: Mapping outlet and switch locations based on daily use Accommodating modern demands like home offices, entertainment systems, and kitchen appliances Upgrading amperage to at least 100 amps, or more for larger homes Specifying wire types and gauges appropriate for each circuit Planning dedicated circuits for major appliances Incorporating smart technology such as automated lighting or security systems A comprehensive wiring diagram is created to guide the installation and assist with future maintenance. You'll also need to apply for local permits and schedule inspections at various project stages. The Rewiring Process The process is typically split into two phases: Rough-In Stage Removal of old wiring through walls, lofts, or under floors Installation of new electrical boxes and cable runs Upgrading the electrical panel if needed Labelling circuits and cables for easy identification Finishing Stage Fitting new switches, sockets, and lighting fixtures Connecting circuits to the new panel Installing GFCI outlets in moisture-prone areas Thorough circuit testing and code compliance checks Final power restoration and system-wide functionality testing Cleanliness and organisation are key throughout, and old wiring is removed responsibly, often via recycling schemes. A full-home rewire may cause temporary disruption, but the long-term safety, efficiency, and future-proofing it provides are well worth the investment. Planning a full electrical rewire in Carterton, Abingdon or Witney? R Harris Electrical Services delivers safe, high-quality electrical rewires tailored to your home and lifestyle. Call us on 07929825745 or fill out our contact form to arrange your free assessment and quote.
