How Much Does It Cost to Rewire a House or Business?

Ever flip a switch and wonder if your wiring is as safe as it should be? Maybe you've noticed flickering lights, tripped breakers, or outlets that don’t work. A little worry creeps in. What if the wiring is old, or worse—unsafe?

At Douglas Electric, we’ve seen the full range—from charming historic homes with cloth-covered wires to busy commercial sites running on outdated panels. Rewiring isn’t just about replacing cables. It’s about protecting your investment, your safety, and everyone who steps inside.

Why Rewiring May Be Needed ⚡

Wiring ages. Like pipes in the wall or a roof overhead, it wears out. Sometimes it’s hidden damage, other times it’s a system simply not built to handle today’s technology. Here’s when rewiring moves from “should” to “must”:

• Outdated Wiring: Homes built before the 1980s often have wiring that can’t safely support modern appliances or devices.
• Frequent Electrical Issues: Breakers trip constantly, outlets spark, or you smell something burning.
• Visible Wear: Exposed wires, cracked insulation, or corroded panels.
• Major Renovations: If you’re remodeling, adding rooms, or upgrading equipment, the system may need a full upgrade.
• Insurance or Safety Requirements: Insurers and local codes (see National Electrical Code, NEC) can require rewiring for coverage or compliance.

For businesses, especially those with heavy equipment or evolving tech needs, safe and up-to-date wiring is non-negotiable. It’s not just about lights—it’s about productivity, liability, and peace of mind.

Factors Impacting Cost

Rewiring isn’t one-size-fits-all. Imagine replacing the veins in a body—some are easy to reach, others are buried deep. Costs can swing widely based on several drivers:

1. Size and Layout of Property

• Larger homes or commercial spaces mean more wire, more labor, more time.
• Complicated layouts (multi-story, tight crawlspaces, lots of walls) increase both time and expense.

2. System Complexity

• Older buildings may have patchwork systems, mixed wire types, or outdated panels.
• Commercial spaces often need specialized machine wiring, emergency lighting, or dedicated circuits.

3. Code Upgrades & Safety Requirements

• New wiring must meet NEC standards and often local amendments.
• Older properties may need new service panels, GFCI/AFCI protection, surge suppression, or grounding upgrades.

4. Accessibility

• Finished walls, historic plaster, or hidden junction boxes require careful work to minimize damage.
• Open framing (during renovations or new construction) is much easier and less expensive.

5. Hidden Surprises

• Water damage, rodent-chewed wires, or asbestos insulation can add costs quickly.
• Outdated or overloaded panels often need replacement.

6. Residential vs. Commercial Differences

• Homes: Focus on safety, code, and comfort. Usually less complex.
• Businesses: More circuits, higher loads, possible after-hours work to avoid downtime.

Average Rewiring Costs

It’s the question on everyone’s mind: “How much will this really cost?” There’s no single answer, but here are some ballpark figures to help you plan:

Residential Rewiring

• Smaller Homes (1,000–1,500 sq. ft.): Mid-to-high four figures, depending on access and finishes.
• Average Homes (2,000–3,000 sq. ft.): Can range from moderate five figures and up, especially if walls need patching or panels replaced.
• Historic or Complex Homes: Costs rise with special materials, code upgrades, or delicate finishes.

Commercial Rewiring

• Small Offices/Retail: Starts higher due to more circuits and commercial code.
• Warehouses, Restaurants, Industrial: Price varies dramatically based on equipment, service size, and access requirements.

What’s Included?

• Removal of old wiring
• Installation of new wires, breakers, outlets, and switches
• Panel upgrades (if needed)
• Inspection and code compliance

Note: Permits, patching, and painting are usually separate.

Getting an Accurate Estimate

No two jobs are the same. Here’s how to get a true picture—before the work begins:

1. Schedule a Walkthrough: A professional emergency electrician will inspect your property, checking panels, outlets, attic/basement access, and overall condition.
2. Ask for a Detailed Quote: Make sure it breaks out labor, materials, permit fees, and contingency items.
3. Compare Apples-to-Apples: Not all quotes include the same scope. Ask about panels, code upgrades, and repairs.

It’s smart to budget a little extra. Surprises—like hidden junction boxes or water damage—can crop up once walls are opened.

Common Pitfalls (and How to Plan for Them) 🧰

• Hidden Damage: Water leaks, rodents, or prior DIY repairs can add time and cost.
• Outdated Panels: If your system can’t handle the new load, a new panel is a must.
• Access Issues: Plaster walls, finished basements, or tight crawlspaces require more labor.
• Underestimating Scope: Sometimes more circuits are needed than originally thought, especially for modern appliances or home offices.

Tip: Set aside 10–20% extra in your budget for unplanned discoveries.

How to Compare Quotes from Electricians

Shopping for rewiring isn’t like buying a toaster. Here’s what to look for:

• Licensing & Insurance: Always confirm your electrician meets state and local requirements.
• Experience with Similar Properties: Residential services near you may differ from commercial rewiring.
• Detailed Scope: Does the quote include panel upgrades, surge protection, and all finish work?
• References: Ask for recent projects or testimonials.
• Code Compliance: Make sure all work aligns with the latest NEC and any local amendments.

What to Expect from Professional Electricians

• Clear Communication: You’ll receive a breakdown of costs, timeline, and what’s included.
• Safety-First Approach: All Douglas Electric electricians follow OSHA and NEC guidelines.
• Minimal Disruption: We aim to protect your home or business, cleaning up daily and minimizing wall damage where possible.
• Final Inspection: All work is inspected for safety and compliance.

Planning for Contingencies

No one likes surprises, but they happen. Plan for:

• Temporary Power Needs: If your business can’t go dark, ask about temporary circuits or after-hours work.
• Wall Repairs: Some patching and painting may be needed after wires are run.
• Permits and Inspections: These can take time—build it into your project schedule.

FAQ

How long does rewiring take?

For an average home, expect several days to a week. Businesses may take longer, especially if the system is complex or work must be done in phases.

Do I need to move out during rewiring?

Not always. With careful planning, you can often stay in your home, though there will be some disruption. For commercial projects, after-hours work may be an option.

Will my insurance cover rewiring?

Some policies may help if wiring is deemed unsafe or damaged. Check with your provider before starting.

What about code inspections?

All rewiring must be inspected by a local authority to ensure it meets safety and code standards. This protects you and your property.

Local and Seasonal Considerations 🌦️

Weather can play a role. Heavy rain, snow, or extreme heat may affect scheduling or access, especially for exterior work or underground wiring. Historic homes or commercial spaces in older districts may face unique challenges—think tricky access, limited panel space, or special permit requirements.

Final Thoughts

Rewiring is a major project, but it’s also a smart investment in safety, reliability, and future-proofing your property. Whether it’s your family home or your business, knowing what drives the cost—and how to plan—puts you in control.

Have more questions? Need a detailed, no-pressure estimate? Reach out anytime—24/7 emergency electrician services are just a call away.

Call Douglas Electric now — or reach us anytime at  877-748-7077 .