A full rewire replaces the circuits, cabling and accessories throughout a property, usually alongside a new consumer unit and earthing arrangement. Age alone does not decide it: testing does. Big Volt Electric assesses whether a full rewire, a partial rewire or targeted remedial work is the proportionate scope for a home in South West London.
A full rewire is a substantial project affecting circuits throughout a property. A useful first conversation covers the building, the reason for the work, the proposed room layouts, access, finishes and any wider renovation programme. Big Volt Electric can then confirm what information and survey work are needed before the scope is agreed.
Tell us about the property and the reason for the enquiry.
We confirm whether photographs, existing documents or a site visit are needed.
You receive a written scope and quotation before committing to the work.
The programme, access and relevant testing are agreed for the project.
Age is the weakest indicator. What matters is what testing shows: insulation resistance between conductors, the continuity and presence of a circuit protective conductor, the condition of the earthing and bonding, and whether the circuits still suit how the house is used. A 1970s installation in good condition can outlast a badly executed rewire from 2005.
The decision is usually driven by one of four findings — degraded cable such as rubber or fabric insulation, lighting circuits with no earth, an installation with no realistic capacity for modern loads, or a renovation that opens the house up anyway and makes replacement the sensible moment.
First fix is the cabling and back boxes while the structure is open, before plastering. Second fix is the accessories, fittings and consumer unit after decoration, followed by testing and certification. The gap between them is where plastering and decorating happen.
Cables run in chases in solid walls and through joists under floors, so plaster is cut and boards lifted. Establish in writing what making good includes — patching chases is normally distinct from replastering, and decorating is usually excluded.
A rewire is far easier in an empty house. Where you are staying, the work has to be phased so a working kitchen and at least one room stay live, which lengthens the programme.
A full rewire is notifiable under Part P. You should receive an Electrical Installation Certificate and a Building Regulations compliance certificate, which conveyancers ask for when the house is sold.
Include the postcode, preferred timing and any useful existing information.