Practical guidance from Kore Electrical
The practical answer
A rewire starts with deciding how every room will be used, where appliances and furniture will sit and what may be needed later. First fix covers cable routes, boxes and circuit wiring. Second fix adds the consumer unit, sockets, switches and lighting. The installation is then inspected and tested before certification and handover. Good decisions before first fix reduce disruptive changes later.
This guidance is general and cannot replace inspection or testing of the actual installation. If there are signs of danger, isolate the affected circuit where safe and seek professional help.
How do full and partial rewires differ?
A full rewire replaces wiring throughout the agreed property scope. A partial rewire covers specific circuits or areas. The right approach depends on inspection, test results and renovation plans, rather than the age of the property alone.
Can I stay in the house?
A rewire can involve dust, chasing walls, lifting floorboards and interruptions to power. Discuss occupancy before booking. Access, temporary supplies, furniture and the order of work need agreement; an occupied property may need a different programme.
What should the quote make clear?
Agree socket and lighting positions, circuit scope, fittings, testing and certification. Confirm who handles plaster repairs and decoration, and coordinate with kitchen fitters or other trades. A room-by-room list helps compare quotes on the same basis.
Further electrical safety guidance: Electrical Safety First.