Key Takeaways
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Per Square Foot | $5 – $17 |
| Average Cost To Rewire Whole House | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Factors Influencing Cost | House size, labor, materials, type of walls, electrical panel updates, and regional pricing |
| Potential Value Addition | Can add significant value to the home |
| Rewiring Time Frame | Typically takes 3 to 10 days |
| Breaking Down The Cost By Room And House Size | See tables below |
$5 – $17 Cost Per Square Foot
The cost to rewire a house typically ranges between $5 and $17 per square foot. This cost can vary based on factors such as labor, materials, and the complexity of the job.
$10,000 – $30,000 Average Cost To Rewire A Whole House
For an entire house, homeowners can expect to pay between $10,000 and $30,000. The final cost will depend on the size of the property, the layout, and the electrician’s labor rates.
Average Cost To Rewire A House
Rewiring costs vary depending on the square footage of your house. Here are the typical costs associated with different house sizes:
| Square Feet | Average Cost To Rewire |
|---|---|
| 250 | $1,300 – $4,300 |
| 500 | $2,500 – $8,500 |
| 800 | $4,000 – $13,600 |
| 1,000 | $5,000 – $17,000 |
| 1,200 | $6,000 – $20,400 |
| 1,500 | $7,500 – $25,500 |
| 2,000 | $10,000 – $34,000 |
| 2,500 | $12,500 – $42,500 |
| 3,000 | $15,000 – $51,000 |
| 3,500 | $17,500 – $59,500 |
| 4,000 | $20,000 – $68,000 |
Cost To Rewire A House By Room
The cost to rewire various rooms in the house depends on the room size and the complexity involved. Below is a breakdown by room:
| Room | Square Feet | Average Cost To Rewire |
|---|---|---|
| Basement | 500 – 1,500 | $2,500 – $25,500 |
| Bathroom | 40 – 150 | $200 – $2,600 |
| Bedroom | 130 – 230 | $650 – $3,900 |
| Garage | 240 – 700 | $1,200 – $11,900 |
| Kitchen | 100 – 200 | $500 – $3,400 |
| Living Room | 200 – 450 | $1,000 – $1,700 |
| Shed | 50 – 450 | $250 – $7,700 |
| Shop Or Metal Building | 1,200 – 5,000 | $3,000 – $10,000 |
Whole House Rewiring Cost Calculator
Estimating the full cost of rewiring a house involves accounting for both material and labor costs. Here’s a detailed table:
| Factor | Average Cost To Rewire Through Attic, Basement, Or Floor Joists | Average Cost When Opening Walls, Rewiring, And Replacing Drywall |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | $4,000 – $8,000 | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Labor | $6,000 – $12,000 | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Total Cost To Rewire | $10,000 – $20,000 | $20,000 – $30,000+ |
Labor Cost To Rewire A House
Labor costs make up a significant part of the total rewiring bill. Electricians typically charge between $50 to $100 per hour, depending on their experience and regional rates. Complex jobs requiring more time will naturally incur higher labor costs.
Material Cost To Rewire A House
Materials such as wires, outlets, switches, and electrical panels contribute to the overall cost. Expect to pay $4,000 to $8,000 for materials alone, though this can increase if high-quality or specialized materials are necessary.
Cost To Rewire A House With Plaster Walls Vs. Drywall
Rewiring a house with plaster walls is generally more expensive than with drywall. Plaster is more challenging to work with, and additional labor is required to repair the walls after rewiring.
Cost To Update Electrical Panel
If the electrical panel is outdated, updating it is a necessity during the rewiring process. This can cost between $1,200 and $2,500 depending on the panel’s specifications and complexity.
Cost To Redo Electrical Outlets And Switches
Replacing electrical outlets and switches is a critical component of the rewiring process. The typical cost ranges from $100 to $300 per outlet or switch when considering both parts and labor.
Cost To Rewire An Old House Vs. New House
| Project | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Rewire A House | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Wire A New House | $6,000 – $22,500 |
| Replace Knob And Tube Wiring | $12,000 – $35,000 |
Rewiring an old house can be more expensive than wiring a new one. Older homes may feature outdated systems like knob and tube wiring, which can cost significantly more to replace due to the complexity and additional labor involved.
Rewiring A House FAQs
Cost To Rewire A Small House Or Mobile Home
The average cost to rewire a small house or mobile home falls between $1,500 and $10,000. This is less than rewiring a larger property due to the reduced square footage and complexity.
Does Rewiring A House Add Value?
Yes, rewiring a house can add significant value. An updated electrical system increases safety, reliability, and meets modern standards, making the property more appealing to potential buyers.
How Long Does It Take To Rewire A House?
Rewiring a house usually takes between 3 to 10 days, depending on the house’s size, the complexity of the electrical system, and the number of people working on the project.
How Often And When Should You Rewire A House?
Experts recommend rewiring a house every 25 to 30 years. If you notice frequent electrical problems, tripping circuit breakers, or outdated wiring, it might be time to consider a rewiring project.
Can You Rewire A House In Stages?
Yes, it is possible to rewire a house in stages. This can help manage costs and allow homeowners to continue living in the house during the process. Here’s a look at the pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Splits a high-cost project into smaller, more affordable projects | Can be dusty and disruptive |
| Allows you to live in the house while the project takes place | Costs more per square foot due to smaller project size |
| Material prices increase over time | |
| Finding an electrician may be difficult |
How To Get Your House Rewired For Free
Some programs and grants are available to help qualifying homeowners cover the costs of rewiring. Check with local government agencies or non-profits for available funding options and assistance.
Can You Rewire A House Without Removing Drywall?
In some cases, electricians can rewire a house without removing drywall by working through the attic, basement, or crawl spaces to pull wires. However, this approach may not be feasible in all situations.
Can I Rewire My Own House?
While it is legally allowed to rewire your own house in some regions, it is generally not recommended unless you have extensive knowledge and experience. Hiring a licensed electrician ensures the work is done safely and to code.
Getting Estimates From A Rewiring Electrician
Questions To Ask
When seeking estimates from electricians, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you get a fair and accurate quote. Consider asking the following:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Can you provide references from past clients?
- What is included in the estimate?
- How long will the project take?
- Will there be any additional costs?
- Do you handle the necessary permits?
Taking these steps can help homeowners make informed decisions and ensure a smooth and successful rewiring project.
