How Much Does Rewiring Cost in the West Midlands?

If you own a home or business in Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, Shropshire or the wider West Midlands, you may be wondering what it costs to rewire a property. Whether you’ve just moved in, or you’re upgrading an older building, understanding rewiring costs can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises.

In this guide, we’ll explain what affects the cost of rewiring, the benefits of rewiring your property, and why it’s worth doing properly.

What Is Rewiring and Why Might You Need It?

Rewiring is the process of replacing old, unsafe, or outdated electrical systems. This includes removing old wiring, upgrading fuseboards, and fitting new sockets, switches and lighting points. Whether you're upgrading an older building or planning renovations, it helps to understand when rewiring is typically needed.

Over time, wiring deteriorates. Most electrical systems installed over 25 years ago will no longer meet current UK safety standards. There are risks of ignoring the need to rewire your property - they could pose a fire risk or lead to faults like frequent tripping, overheating sockets or flickering lights.

You may need a full or partial rewire if:

• Your property hasn’t been rewired in 25+ years

• You’ve had an electrical safety inspection (EICR) flag issues

• You’re renovating or changing the layout of your home or office

• Your system doesn’t support modern electrical demand (e.g. for EV charging, underfloor heating, or large appliances)

• You notice any warning signs of electrical wiring issues

Factors That Affect the Cost of Rewiring

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the cost of rewiring. It depends on a range of factors, including the size of the property, the complexity of the system, and how much disruption is involved.

Here are the main things that affect pricing:

1. Size of the Property

Larger properties need more materials and labour. A one-bed flat will cost less to rewire than a four-bed detached home or a large commercial unit.

2. Full or Partial Rewire

Some projects only need a partial rewire, such as a new circuit or an upgrade to the consumer unit. Others need everything replaced from scratch. Full rewires involve more time, testing, and disruption.

3. Type of Property

Older buildings, especially those with thick walls or no recent upgrades, may be harder to rewire. Properties with loft access and underfloor voids are often simpler.

4. Access and Occupancy

If your property is empty, the job will likely be faster and easier. If you’re living or working there during the rewire, your electrician will need to work around you, which may slow things down.

5. Finishes and Fittings

The number and quality of sockets, light switches, and fixtures you choose will also affect the final cost. Basic white fittings are cheaper. Decorative finishes or smart home tech will cost more.

6. Testing and Certification

After the work is done, the system needs to be tested and certified to meet wiring regulations and UK standards (BS 7671). This is included in professional rewiring but may be charged separately by some electricians.

Commercial vs Residential Rewiring Costs

Residential Properties

Home rewires are usually priced based on the number of bedrooms or circuits. Most involve replacing consumer units, lighting, sockets, and earthing. You may also choose to add extra points or reposition switches during the work.

Rewiring a home in Wolverhampton or Staffordshire often takes 3 to 10 days depending on size and complexity.

Commercial Properties

Offices, shops and warehouses often need more complex systems, including three-phase power, fire alarm integration, and higher safety requirements. SM Electrical can also work outside of trading hours to reduce disruption.

In most cases, commercial rewires cost more than domestic ones due to the additional complexity and compliance needs. But every project is different. A small office could cost less than a large four-bedroom home.

What’s Included in a Rewire?

Every rewire should include:

• Removal of old wiring and accessories

• New cabling installed to current regulations

• Upgraded fuse board (consumer unit)

• Earthing and bonding to meet safety standards

• New sockets, switches, and light fittings

• Testing and certification

At SM Electrical, the full rewiring process is carried out by fully qualified, NICEIC-registered electricians. We work to BS 7671 and meet all local authority and insurance requirements. You can read more about the legal requirements for rewiring in our separate guide.

Will It Disrupt My Home or Business?

Rewiring is one of the more disruptive electrical jobs. Wires often run behind plaster or under floors, so walls may need chasing or lifting. However, experienced electricians like SM Electrical aim to reduce disruption wherever possible.

We often work room by room, keeping clean and tidy, and helping you stay in your home or keep your business running while the work is completed.

How Long Does It Take?

Most residential rewires take between 3 and 10 working days. Commercial rewires depend on the size and layout of the property but can often be phased to reduce downtime.

We’ll always provide a clear schedule before starting any work.

Can Rewiring Increase Property Value?

Yes. A rewired electrical system makes your property more efficient, safer, and often more appealing to buyers. It’s particularly important if you’re renovating or planning to rent out the building.

Many mortgage lenders and insurers ask for up-to-date certification to confirm that the wiring is safe. So, rewiring can also help you avoid delays when selling or letting.

Final Thoughts

Rewiring is a smart long-term investment. It protects your property from faults, helps you meet current regulations, and gives you peace of mind. While the cost will vary depending on your needs, the benefits of doing it properly far outweigh the risks of leaving old systems in place.

If you're based in Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, Shropshire, or anywhere in the West Midlands and are considering a rewire, get advice from certified electrical experts in Wolverhampton. We can carry out an inspection and help you understand what’s needed.

This article is for general guidance only. Every property is different. For advice on your specific situation, always consult a qualified electrician on rewiring your property.