Rewiring an Old Property in London: What You Need to Know
London is full of charming period properties—Victorian terraces, Georgian townhouses, and 1930s semis. But while these homes have character, they often have dangerously outdated wiring. At J H Electrical, we’ve rewired countless older homes and know exactly how to modernise them safely. If you’re thinking about rewiring an old property in London, this guide is for you.
Why Old Properties Need Rewiring
Electrical standards have changed significantly over the last few decades. If your home hasn’t been rewired in over 25 years, it likely won’t meet current safety regulations. Outdated wiring can lead to:
- Electric shocks or fire hazards
- Power overloads from modern appliances
- Frequent blown fuses or tripped breakers
- Decreased property value
Key Signs of Old Wiring
- Rubber, fabric or lead-insulated wiring
- Old-style fuse boxes without RCD protection
- Round pin sockets or light switches mounted on skirting boards
- Discolouration or burn marks on switches
Challenges of Rewiring Period Homes
Old properties often require extra care. We often encounter:
- Limited space for cabling
- Lathe and plaster walls
- Asbestos in ceilings or switchboards (requires specialist handling)
- Preservation of original features
At J H Electrical, we carefully plan each rewire to preserve your property’s character while bringing it up to modern safety standards.
Can I Stay in My Home During a Rewire?
It depends on the condition and layout. For extensive rewires in older properties, we often recommend temporary relocation to speed up the job and reduce stress. We’ll advise the best option for your situation.
Our Process
We begin with a detailed inspection, followed by a customised plan that includes new sockets, switches, lighting circuits, and a modern fuse board. Once complete, we issue full certification for insurance and compliance purposes.
Request a free quote or view our customer reviews to see how we’ve helped homeowners across London.
FAQs – Rewiring Old Properties in London
How much does it cost to rewire a Victorian or Edwardian house?
Prices vary depending on size and complexity but typically start from £4,500 for a 2-bed and can exceed £7,500 for larger homes. Request a quote for accurate pricing.
Do I need permission to rewire a listed building?
If your property is listed, you may need consent to carry out internal works. We can help liaise with local authorities where needed.
Can I preserve original switches and fittings?
Yes, in some cases we can restore or retrofit original features with modern safety in mind. We’ll advise on this during your inspection.
Does rewiring add value to an older property?
Absolutely. A modern electrical system is a key selling point and can significantly improve safety and appeal for buyers.
Can I split the rewire into stages?
Yes, though it’s usually more efficient and cost-effective to do it all at once. We’ll help you plan based on your budget and priorities.
How long does it take to rewire an old house?
Usually 5–10 days, depending on access and structure. We provide a detailed timeline before work begins.
What type of wiring will you install?
We install the latest PVC-insulated copper cabling that meets all UK regulations (BS7671).
Contact Us
If your older home in London needs rewiring, trust J H Electrical for safe, reliable and respectful service. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.
