What to Expect From a Full Rewire

Short answer: a full rewire happens in two main stages, first fix, where new cabling is run through walls, floors and ceilings, and second fix, where sockets, switches and light fittings are connected once decoration is underway, finishing with full testing and an Electrical Installation Certificate.

First fix

This is the most disruptive stage. Cables are chased into walls or run under floorboards and through ceiling voids, which usually means lifting sections of flooring, cutting small channels into plaster (later filled and made good), and drilling through joists where cables need to cross a room. Old cabling is removed at the same time. Dust and mess are unavoidable at this stage, and most rooms aren't usable for normal living while it's underway.

Between first and second fix

Once cabling is in place, walls are plastered and floors relaid before decoration begins. This gap allows plaster to dry properly before second fix work starts.

Second fix

Sockets, switches, light fittings and the new consumer unit are connected. This stage is far less disruptive than first fix, since it's mostly finishing work rather than structural cutting and chasing.

Typical timescale and disruption

A full rewire on an average three-bedroom house typically takes one to two weeks for the electrical work itself, though the total project time including making good and redecoration can run longer. Power is usually maintained to at least part of the house throughout, but expect some days with no power while circuits are being connected and tested. Many households choose to stay elsewhere for the most disruptive days, particularly if young children or home working are involved.

What you get at the end

A completed rewire is signed off with an Electrical Installation Certificate, confirming the work meets current wiring regulations. This is an important document to keep, both for your own records and for any future property sale.

Regulations, certification requirements and grant limits referenced here are correct at the time of publication and are reviewed and updated from time to time by government and local authorities. Always confirm the current position with a qualified, registered professional or your local authority before relying on it.