Will Insurance Pay to Rewire My House?

Rewiring a house is a significant investment, and many homeowners wonder if their insurance policy will cover the cost. The answer depends on your policy type, the reason for the rewire, and whether the work is considered maintenance or necessary due to damage.

In this guide, we’ll explain when insurers may pay for a rewire, common exclusions, and what to check in your own policy.

Standard Policies vs Specialist Cover

Most standard home insurance policies do not cover rewiring as part of routine maintenance or upgrades. Replacing old wiring simply because it is outdated is usually considered the homeowner’s responsibility.

However, insurance may contribute if the rewire is required due to sudden damage caused by an insured event, such as:

• Fire

• Flood

• Storm damage

• Accidental damage

Our rewiring service can be tailored to repair damaged circuits as part of an insurance claim, ensuring all work meets UK safety standards.

When Insurance Is Unlikely to Pay

Insurers generally will not cover a rewire if:

• The wiring has failed due to age or wear and tear

• The system is outdated but still functional

• You’re upgrading for convenience, such as adding extra sockets

In these cases, rewiring is treated as a home improvement rather than a claimable repair.

How to Check Your Policy

1. Read the small print – Look for sections covering “accidental damage” or “buildings cover”.

2. Contact your insurer – Explain the reason for the rewire and ask whether it’s covered.

3. Provide evidence – Electrical inspection reports can help support your claim if the damage is due to an insured event.

Making a Claim

If your rewire is claimable:

• Get a written report from a qualified electrician detailing the cause and extent of the damage

• Submit photographs and inspection documents to your insurer

• Use an approved contractor or one who meets their requirements

Final Thoughts

In most cases, rewiring for safety or modernisation won’t be covered by insurance, but damage caused by an insured event may be. Always check your policy details before starting work and use a certified electrician to ensure compliance with UK regulations.