Your home's electrical wiring is hidden behind walls and under floors, quietly powering your daily life. But like any system, it doesn't last forever. At WaterTight Plumbing and Electrics, we've been rewiring homes across Coalville and Leicestershire for over 20 years, and we know the signs that indicate it's time for an upgrade.
How Long Does Electrical Wiring Last?
Most electrical installations have a lifespan of 25-30 years, though this can vary depending on the quality of the original installation and how well it's been maintained. Properties wired in the 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s are now reaching the age where rewiring becomes necessary.
However, age isn't the only factor. Poor original installation, DIY modifications, or damage from renovations can all shorten the lifespan of your electrical system.
Signs Your Leicestershire Home Needs Rewiring
- Frequent Electrical Faults: If you're regularly experiencing blown fuses, tripped circuit breakers, or flickering lights, your wiring may be struggling to cope with modern electrical demands.
- Outdated Consumer Unit: Still got an old fuse box with wire fuses rather than modern circuit breakers? This is a clear sign your electrical system needs updating. Modern consumer units provide much better protection against electrical fires and electrocution.
- Insufficient Sockets: Older homes often have too few sockets, leading to dangerous overuse of extension leads and adaptors. A rewire allows us to install adequate sockets throughout your home.
- Burning Smells or Scorch Marks: Any burning odours around electrical fittings or visible scorch marks on sockets and switches indicate serious problems that need immediate attention.
- Electric Shocks: Getting small shocks from appliances or switches suggests earthing problems that could be dangerous.
- EICR Recommendations: If an Electrical Installation Condition Report has identified C1 or C2 issues throughout your property, a full rewire might be more cost-effective than piecemeal repairs.
Types of Rewires
- Full Rewire: A complete replacement of all electrical wiring, consumer unit, and accessories. This is often necessary in older properties or where the existing installation is in poor condition.
- Partial Rewire: Sometimes only certain circuits need replacing - perhaps just the upstairs lighting or kitchen ring main. This can be more cost-effective but requires careful assessment.
- Consumer Unit Upgrade: In some cases, the wiring might be acceptable but the consumer unit (fuse board) needs updating to meet current safety standards.
The Rewiring Process
- Initial Survey: Our NAPIT-qualified electricians assess your property, discussing your needs and providing a detailed quotation. We'll explain exactly what work is needed and why.
- Planning and Preparation: We plan cable routes to minimise disruption and coordinate with any other trades if you're renovating. We'll also handle Building Control notifications where required.
- First Fix: This involves installing new cables throughout the property. We run cables for lighting, power circuits, and any special requirements like electric vehicle charging points or solar panel connections.
- Plastering and Decoration: Once cables are installed, any necessary making good of walls and ceilings takes place. We work carefully to minimise damage to your home's fabric.
- Second Fix: We install the new consumer unit, fit all sockets, switches, and light fittings, and connect everything up.
- Testing and Certification: Comprehensive testing ensures everything works safely and meets current regulations. We provide all necessary certificates for Building Control and your records.
Minimising Disruption
We understand that rewiring can seem daunting, but our experienced team works to minimise disruption to your daily life:
- Careful planning of cable routes to reduce damage to decorations
- Flexible working hours to suit your schedule where possible
- Clean, tidy working - we treat your home with respect
- Clear communication about what's happening each day
- Coordination with other trades if you're doing a full renovation
Cost Considerations
Rewiring costs vary significantly depending on property size, accessibility, and your specific requirements. A typical three-bedroom house in Leicestershire might cost £3,000-£6,000 for a full rewire, but this can vary considerably.
Factors affecting cost include:
- Property size and layout
- Accessibility of existing wiring
- Quality of fittings and accessories chosen
- Additional requirements like outdoor supplies or EV charging points
- Amount of making good required
While rewiring represents a significant investment, consider it against the safety risks of outdated wiring and the inconvenience of frequent electrical faults.
Building Regulations and Certification
Full rewires require Building Control notification. As NAPIT Domestic Installers, WaterTight Plumbing and Electrics can self-certify our work, which simplifies the process and saves you money on Building Control fees.
You'll receive:
- Electrical Installation Certificate confirming the work meets current standards
- Building Control Compliance Certificate for your records
- Comprehensive test results showing all circuits are safe
Modern Electrical Features
A rewire is an opportunity to future-proof your home with modern electrical features:
- Smart Home Preparation: We can install wiring for smart switches, thermostats, and home automation systems.
- EV Charging Ready: We'll install the necessary supply for electric vehicle charging points.
- Solar Panel Compatibility: If you're considering solar panels and battery storage, we can ensure your electrical system is ready.
- USB Sockets: Modern USB charging sockets reduce the need for plug adaptors.
- Improved Lighting Circuits: Better lighting control with dimmer switches and multiple switching points.
Choosing the Right Electrician
Rewiring is a major undertaking that requires properly qualified electricians. Look for:
- Proper qualifications (18th Edition regulations)
- Registration with a competent person scheme (like NAPIT)
- Comprehensive insurance covering the work
- Clear, detailed quotations explaining what's included
- Good local reputation - check Checkatrade or similar platforms
Don't Delay Essential Rewiring
Electrical safety isn't something to compromise on. If your Leicestershire home shows signs of needing rewiring, don't wait for a serious fault to occur. Outdated wiring is a fire risk and can cause expensive damage to appliances.
At WaterTight Plumbing and Electrics, we've built our reputation on quality workmanship and honest advice. Established in 2011 and serving Coalville and surrounding areas, we understand local properties and their common electrical challenges.
Whether you need a full rewire, consumer unit upgrade, or advice on your electrical installation, our experienced team is here to help. We'll provide a thorough assessment, clear quotation, and professional installation that gives you peace of mind for years to come.
Your home's electrical system is too important to leave to chance. Contact WaterTight Plumbing and Electrics today to discuss your rewiring needs and ensure your family's safety.
