A full rewire is one of the biggest electrical jobs a property can need — but it's often unavoidable in older East London properties. Here's everything you need to know.

A full house rewire is one of the most significant electrical projects a property can undergo — but for many older East London properties, it's not optional. Properties built before 1970 that have never been rewired often have wiring that is deteriorating, non-compliant with current regulations, and potentially dangerous. An EICR will typically identify the need for rewiring through C1 or C2 observations.

When Does a Property Need Rewiring?

• The property has rubber-insulated or lead-sheathed wiring (pre-1960s)
• The wiring is aluminium rather than copper (common in 1960s–70s properties)
• The EICR has returned multiple C1 or C2 codes relating to wiring condition
• The property has never been rewired and is more than 40 years old
• You're undertaking a major renovation and want to future-proof the installation
• The property has been extended or significantly altered without electrical updates
• You're converting a property to an HMO and need to meet licensing requirements

What Does a Full Rewire Involve?

A full rewire involves replacing all the fixed wiring in a property — from the consumer unit to every socket, switch, light fitting and fixed appliance connection. It's a significant undertaking that requires access to wall cavities, floor voids and ceiling spaces. In most cases, some redecoration will be needed after the work is complete.

The process typically involves: first fix (running new cables through the property), second fix (connecting accessories and the consumer unit), testing (every circuit tested to BS 7671), and certification (Electrical Installation Certificate issued on completion). For a typical 3-bedroom house, a full rewire takes 3–5 days.

Rewiring Costs in East London

• 1–2 bed flat: from £2,500–£3,500
• 3 bed house: from £3,500–£5,000
• 4 bed house: from £5,000–£7,000
• 5+ bed house or HMO: from £7,000+ (quoted on scope)
• Prices include all materials, labour, testing and certification
• Redecoration after rewiring is not included — allow additional budget

Rewiring in East London's Older Properties

East London has a large stock of Victorian and Edwardian terraces — particularly in areas like Leyton, Dalston, Walthamstow and the older parts of Tower Hamlets. Many of these properties have wiring that dates from the 1960s or 70s at best, and some have never been rewired since they were built. Our team has extensive experience rewiring period properties across East London, working carefully to minimise disruption and damage to original features.

If you're a landlord in East London and your EICR has flagged wiring condition issues, a full rewire may be the most cost-effective long-term solution — particularly if you're planning to hold the property for many years. A rewired property will pass its EICR for 10+ years and significantly reduces the risk of electrical faults and insurance claims.