How Much Does It Cost to Rewire a House? Complete Homeowner’s Guide

Is your home’s wiring as old as a rotary phone? It might be time to look behind the walls. Home rewiring isn’t just about keeping the lights on—it’s about keeping your family safe. And when you start searching “emergency electrician” or “Backup Generators near you,” you want real answers, not guesswork.

At Alentar Electric, we know rewiring a house is a big decision. The process can feel overwhelming. What will it cost? How long will it take? Will your home be upside down for weeks? Let’s break down what really goes into a home rewiring project, step by step.

Why Homes Need Rewiring 🔌

Think of your home’s wiring like the veins in your body. Over time, they age. Wires can become brittle, insulation frays, and what used to work for a handful of appliances now supports dozens of gadgets.

Older homes (especially those built before the 1980s) often have wiring that can’t handle today’s electrical demands. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), outdated wiring is a leading cause of house fires in North America.

Here’s why rewiring matters:

• Safety: Old wires can spark, overheat, or fail without warning.
• Insurance & Resale: Many insurers refuse coverage for homes with outdated wiring systems. Buyers often walk away from homes with known electrical issues.
• Modern Needs: From EV chargers to smart thermostats, your home’s wiring needs muscle to keep up.

Average Rewiring Costs (by Home Size & Age)

Every home is different. Rewiring a small bungalow costs less than rewiring a sprawling multi-story house. But size isn’t the only factor—age, accessibility, and the type of wiring all play a role.

• Small homes (under 1,000 sq ft): These generally fall at the lower end of the range.
• Medium homes (1,000–2,500 sq ft): Costs rise with more circuits, more rooms, and more outlets.
• Large homes (2,500+ sq ft): Expect higher labor and material costs, especially if your home has additions or complex layouts.

In most cases, rewiring an entire home falls somewhere between the cost of a used car and a new kitchen remodel. The older the home, the more surprises you may find—think of it like opening a mystery box from the attic.

Important: Avoid anyone offering “one-size-fits-all” quotes. A reputable emergency electrician will always inspect first, then provide a detailed estimate based on your unique situation.

Key Factors That Affect Price

What goes into the final price tag? Here’s what really matters:

• Materials: Copper wire is the gold standard (pun intended). It’s safe, efficient, and lasts decades. Other materials might save money up front but cost more in the long run.
• Labor: This is a major part of the cost. Licensed electricians, like those at Alentar Electric, follow strict codes—no shortcuts.
• Access: Is your wiring behind finished drywall or exposed in a basement? Cutting and patching walls adds time and expense.
• Permits & Inspections: Local laws usually require permits and inspections. This isn’t just red tape—it ensures your home meets the National Electrical Code (NEC).
• Complexity: Have an older home with knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring? Upgrades and safe removal add to the workload.

Don’t forget: Quality matters. Choosing a reputable, licensed electrician means your home will be safer and your investment will last.

Signs It’s Time to Rewire

Wondering if your house is hinting at trouble? Here are the warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored:

• Frequent blown fuses or tripped breakers
• Flickering or dimming lights
• Buzzing, sizzling, or burning smells from outlets
• Warm or discolored wall plates
• Outlets that don’t work or spark
• Two-prong (ungrounded) outlets throughout the home
• Wiring with cloth insulation or visible cracking

If you spot any of these, especially after storms or appliance upgrades, call a licensed emergency electrician right away.

How to Prepare for a Rewiring Project

Getting ready for a whole-home rewiring? Preparation makes the difference between chaos and calm.

• Clear rooms and hallways: Electricians need access to outlets, switches, and panels.
• Protect valuables: Dust and minor disruptions are part of the job. Cover furniture or move delicate items.
• Plan your schedule: Depending on your home’s size, rewiring can take several days to a couple of weeks.
• Ask about temporary power: You may be without full power during parts of the project. Ask your electrician how this will be handled.

Most importantly, always work with a licensed, insured team. Your safety (and insurance policy) depends on it.

What Influences Time & Budget? ⏱️

With rewiring, surprises can crop up like weeds after rain. Here are the biggest variables:

• Hidden problems: Water damage, rodent nests, or DIY “fixes” from past owners can slow things down.
• Local codes: Some towns require more inspections or special materials.
• Custom requests: Upgrading to smart home features, adding EV chargers, or extra circuits will add to the project.

A good electrician will walk you through each step, explaining what’s needed and what’s optional.

How Licensed Electricians Make a Difference

Think of licensed electricians like seasoned pilots—they know the safest routes and spot trouble before it lands. At Alentar Electric, every project is done to code. We use only UL-listed materials and follow NEC guidelines, so you’re not just getting new wiring—you’re getting peace of mind.

Unlicensed work might seem cheaper, but shoddy wiring is like building a house on sand. It won’t stand up to time or trouble.

How to Spot Outdated or Unsafe Wiring

Not sure what’s behind your walls? Here’s what to look for:

• Cloth-covered or rubber-insulated wires: Common in homes built before 1960.
• Knob-and-tube wiring: Exposed, ceramic “knobs” and “tubes” holding single wires.
• Aluminum wiring: Installed in some homes from the 1960s to 1970s. It expands and contracts, creating fire hazards.
• No ground wires: Outlets without a third (grounding) prong are a red flag.

If you see any of these, call Alentar Electric for an inspection. Even if your lights work, hidden wiring problems can lurk for years before disaster strikes.

Common Homeowner Questions

How much does it cost to rewire a house?
Costs depend on home size, age, and wiring complexity. Most homeowners can expect a range that reflects labor, materials, permits, and any extra upgrades. A safe bet is to budget a significant amount for peace of mind.

How long does rewiring take?
Anywhere from several days to a few weeks. Variables include home size, accessibility, and the need for custom upgrades.

Can I stay in my house during rewiring?
Usually, yes. But be prepared for some inconvenience—power may be off in parts of your home during the process.

Is it really necessary to rewire?
If your wiring is outdated or unsafe, it’s not just a convenience—it’s a safety issue. The NFPA and Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) both recommend updating aging wiring to prevent fire and shock hazards.

Tips to Avoid Common Pitfalls

• Don’t accept vague quotes or handshake deals.
• Always check for licenses, insurance, and references.
• Ask about local permits and inspection requirements.
• Beware of “cheap fixes”—they rarely last.
• Ask your electrician about energy-saving upgrades while the walls are open.

Local & Seasonal Considerations

In some areas, weather impacts scheduling and accessibility. For example, extreme cold or heat can slow work, especially in attics or crawl spaces. If you’re planning a major remodel or installing Backup Generators near you, coordinate rewiring to avoid extra disruption.

The Bottom Line

Rewiring your home is a big investment, but it’s one that pays off in safety, reliability, and modern convenience. It’s not just about meeting code—it’s about peace of mind for you and your family. Choosing the right emergency electrician means you’ll have a home that’s ready for today and tomorrow.

Ready to talk about your home’s wiring?

Call Alentar Electric now — or reach us anytime at  855-513-8853 .