How Much Does It Cost to Rewire a House?

Does the thought of rewiring your house fill you with dread—or just a lot of questions? You're not alone. Every year, families and business owners wonder if it’s time to update their wiring and what it will cost. At LintPro Electric, we see the relief on faces when old worries are replaced by new, safe wiring.

If your home is aging, or your lights flicker more often than you’d like, it’s time to talk about what goes into rewiring, why it matters, and what you should budget for. Let’s break it down together.

Why Rewire Your Home? ⚡

Think of your wiring like the veins of your house—silently working behind walls to power everything you love. Over time, though, even the best veins wear out. Old or faulty wiring isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a real risk.

• Fire Safety: According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical issues are a leading cause of home fires.
• Modern Demands: Today’s homes need to handle more devices, bigger appliances, and sometimes electric vehicles.
• Insurance & Compliance: Many insurers require homes to meet current electrical codes, especially when selling or renovating.

Rewiring isn’t just about keeping the lights on. It’s about peace of mind, every time you flip a switch.

National Average Costs for House Rewiring

So, what’s the price tag? Based on 2026 national data and industry sources like the National Association of Home Builders:

• Small homes (under 1,000 sq. ft.): $4,000–$8,000
• Average homes (1,500–2,500 sq. ft.): $8,000–$20,000
• Large homes (over 3,000 sq. ft.): $20,000–$40,000+

These figures reflect professional labor, new wiring, outlets, switches, and electrical panel upgrades if needed. If your home has unique features—like historical construction, complex layouts, or custom lighting—the cost can slide higher.

Factors That Affect Pricing

No two houses are the same. Here’s what moves the needle on your rewiring quote:

• Home Size & Layout: More rooms, more wiring.
• Age of Home: Older homes may need extra care removing outdated wiring or plaster.
• Material Quality: Copper wire is the gold standard for safety and reliability. Cheaper materials can lower up-front costs but may wear out sooner.
• Accessibility: Tight crawlspaces, finished basements, or hard-to-reach attics mean more labor.
• Local Codes & Upgrades: Safety codes evolve. Upgrades like AFCI/GFCI outlets, surge protection, or smart home features add cost—but boost safety and convenience.

Building codes (like the National Electrical Code) are updated regularly, so your electrician should always work to the latest standards.

Signs You Need Rewiring 🏠

Not sure if your wiring’s on its last legs? Watch for these warning signs:

• Frequent blown fuses or tripped breakers
• Dimming or flickering lights
• Discolored outlets or switch plates (brown or scorched marks)
• Burning smells from outlets or panels
• Two-prong (ungrounded) outlets
• Buzzing sounds from walls or outlets
• Aluminum wiring (common in 1960s–’70s homes)

If any of these sound familiar, don’t wait. These are more than quirks—they’re cries for help from your electrical system.

The Rewiring Process Explained

Rewiring isn’t just about running new wire—it’s a carefully choreographed dance:

1. Inspection & Planning: Your electrician maps out the entire system, checks panel capacity, and plans for future needs.
2. Power Off & Prep: Circuits are shut down safely. Furniture, floors, and valuables are protected.
3. Removing Old Wire: Outdated or damaged wiring is carefully removed from walls and ceilings.
4. Installing New Wire: New circuits, outlets, and switches are placed. This is where code upgrades happen.
5. Testing & Safety Checks: Every circuit is tested, every connection checked.
6. Cleanup & Patch: Walls are closed up, and your home is returned to normal—with power restored.

Depending on the home’s size and complexity, the process can take anywhere from several days to a few weeks.

Professional vs. DIY: Cost & Safety Risks ⚠️

You might wonder—could you save money by doing it yourself? Here’s the straight truth:

• DIY Risks: Rewiring is not like painting a room or laying tile. It involves live circuits, strict code requirements, and hidden dangers. Mistakes can be fatal, cause fires, or void your insurance.
• Permits & Inspections: Licensed electricians pull the right permits and ensure all work is inspected—critical for safety, resale, and peace of mind.
• Long-Term Value: Professional work lasts. It also protects your investment if you ever sell or renovate.

Saving a little by cutting corners can cost you everything. For rewiring, always call a professional.

Cost Drivers: What Affects Your Bill?

Let’s take a closer look at the biggest cost factors:

• Access: If your wiring runs behind plaster or old paneling, it’s tougher to reach and replace.
• Material Quality: Copper costs more but lasts longer and resists corrosion.
• Service Upgrades: If your old panel can’t handle today’s loads, an upgrade may be required.
• Safety Features: Adding surge protection, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, or dedicated circuits for EV chargers can add to the tab—but boost your home’s resilience.

If you’re curious about these features, our rewiring and residential services pages have more details.

Quick Safety Checklist Before You Start 📝

Before you begin, ask yourself:

• Have you noticed any warning signs (see above)?
• Has your home had an electrical inspection in the last 10 years?
• Do you have enough outlets for today’s electronics?
• Are you planning renovations or adding major appliances?

If you answered yes to any, it’s time to explore your rewiring options.

Insurance, Safety, and Code Compliance

Rewiring is about more than wires—it’s about protecting your home and family. Insurance companies can deny claims if a fire is traced to outdated or non-compliant wiring. And when you sell, most buyers insist on a current electrical safety certificate.

LintPro Electric follows the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations in every job. Safety isn’t negotiable.

How Long Does Rewiring Take?

Most homes take 5–10 days, depending on size and accessibility. For large homes or those with unique architecture, it could take up to three weeks. Expect some disruption, but good electricians keep you informed every step of the way.

What to Expect: Disruption and Cleanup

Yes, there will be dust, a few holes in the walls, and some noise. But at LintPro Electric, we treat every home like our own. We cover floors, move furniture, and clean up—so you return to a safer, brighter home.

When It’s an Emergency

If you smell burning, see scorch marks on outlets, or have repeated circuit failures, turn off the power and call immediately. Electrical emergencies can’t wait.

Can You Rewire in Stages?

Absolutely. Many homeowners choose to rewire part of their home at a time—starting with kitchens, bathrooms, or additions. This can help with budgeting and keep your home safe as you go.

The Hidden Value of Professional Rewiring

It’s not just about cost—it’s about the value added:

• Reliable power for modern living
• Increased property value
• Lower risk of fire or shock
• Insurance and code compliance
• Room to grow with new tech (EVs, smart home systems, etc.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rewiring tax deductible?
Sometimes, especially if it’s part of a larger renovation. Always check local tax guidelines.

Will my home insurance drop if I rewire?
Many insurers offer lower premiums for updated electrical systems. Ask your provider.

How do I choose an electrician?
Look for licensed, insured professionals with strong references. If you’re in Jackson, TN, our electrician company is always here to help.

Final Tips and Resources

• Schedule an electrical safety inspection every 5–10 years.
• Always use licensed electricians for wiring projects.
• Check local and national codes (like the NEC) for updates.
• Consider future needs—electric vehicles, smart devices, and more.

Call LintPro Electric now — or reach us anytime at  844-484-8656 .