A full rewire is one of the bigger investments a homeowner can make — but for older properties, it's often one of the most important. This guide covers typical costs across the UK in 2026, what's included in the price, how long the work takes and the warning signs that tell you it's time. If you're not sure whether you need a full rewire or just a consumer unit upgrade, our separate guide covers the differences.
Prices vary depending on the size of the property, ease of access and the local area. The figures below are typical for domestic rewires in the North East of England:
| Property Size | Typical Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 bedroom flat | £1,500 – £2,500 | 2–3 days |
| 2–3 bedroom house | £2,500 – £4,000 | 3–5 days |
| 4 bedroom house | £4,000 – £6,000 | 5–7 days |
| 5+ bedroom or detached | £6,000+ | 7–10 days |
These are guide prices only. The best way to get an accurate figure is to arrange a survey — we'll assess the property, confirm exactly what's involved and give you a fixed price before any work starts.
London vs the North East: Rewire costs in London and the South East are typically 30–50% higher than in the North East. If you've seen national price guides online, expect local prices in Darlington and Teesside to sit at the lower end.
A full rewire replaces all of the fixed wiring in your home — from the consumer unit all the way out to every socket, switch, light fitting and connection point. Here's what's typically included:
Redecoration after the rewire is usually not included in the electrical quote. Running cables through walls means chasing (cutting channels) and making good afterwards — some electricians include first-fix plastering in their quote, others don't. Always clarify this before agreeing a price.
Several things can push the price up or down:
Wiring doesn't last forever. Most installations have a lifespan of around 25–40 years, depending on the materials used and how the property has been used. Here are the key warning signs:
Not sure if you need a rewire? The best starting point is an EICR inspection. It will give you a clear picture of the condition of your wiring and whether a full rewire or targeted repairs are the right call.
For older properties, a rewire isn't just a safety matter — it also adds value and makes the home more attractive to buyers. Mortgage lenders and surveyors increasingly flag older wiring as a concern, and having a full rewire with a current Electrical Installation Certificate removes that uncertainty entirely.
It also gives you the opportunity to upgrade the number and position of sockets, add USB outlets, fit modern LED-compatible lighting circuits and future-proof the installation for EV charging or other high-demand appliances. If you're also planning a kitchen renovation, a rewire is the ideal time to sort everything in one go — see our kitchen electrical guide for how to sequence the work.
We carry out full and partial rewires across Darlington, Teesside, Durham and the wider North East. We'll survey the property, explain exactly what's involved and give you a fixed price — no surprises. Get in touch to arrange a free survey.
