Full Rewire vs Partial Rewire – What Does Your House or Flat Really Need?

Not Every House or Flat Needs a Full Rewire

You’ve been told your electrics need work but do you need to rewire everything?

Maybe. Maybe not.

We inspect houses or Flats every day where a partial rewire is enough. In others, the only safe option is a full upgrade. Knowing the difference can save you time, money, and stress.

This guide breaks it all down clearly, what each rewire involves, when it’s needed, and what to expect from both.

What’s a Full Rewire?

A full rewire means we replace all of your House or Flat’s wiring, sockets, switches, lighting circuits, and the consumer unit. It brings your entire electrical system up to the latest safety standards (BS7671).

When is a full rewire the right choice?

• The wiring is 25+ years old
  
• There’s rubber, fabric, or lead-insulated cable
  
• No RCD protection on your fuse board
  
• You’re renovating or extending
  
• Your EICR flagged major safety issues
  
• You want to future-proof the property
  

Pros:

• Everything is new and compliant
  
• Safer, more reliable electrics
  
• Full control over socket and lighting layout
  
• Adds value when selling
  

Cons:

• More expensive than a partial rewire
  
• Can be disruptive, especially if you’re living in the property
  

What’s a Partial Rewire?

A partial rewire covers only part of your House or Flat, a faulty circuit, a new kitchen extension, or one floor of the house. It’s more targeted and less intrusive.

When is a partial rewire enough?

• Only one area has problems
  
• Your fuse board is modern and the wiring is mostly compliant
  
• You’re upgrading a kitchen or bathroom only
  
• You’ve had an EICR and just one or two circuits failed
  

Pros:

• Lower cost
  
• Quicker to complete
  
• Less mess, less disruption
  

Cons:

• Doesn’t fix everything
  
• You’ll still have old wiring elsewhere
  
• You may need a full rewire later
  

Side-by-Side: Full vs Partial Rewire

Feature	Full Rewire	Partial Rewire
Scope	Whole property	Selected circuits/areas
Disruption	Higher	Lower
Cost	Higher upfront	More affordable
Certification	Full NICEIC cert	NICEIC cert for that area
Futureproofing	Yes	Limited
Best For	Old House or Flats, major renovations	Local upgrades, small fixes

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Unsure Which You Need?

That’s what we’re here for.

We offer free inspections and honest advice. No pressure, no upselling, just a clear recommendation based on what your House or Flat actually needs.

What Will It Cost?

• Full Rewire (2–3 bed House or Flat): From £3,895 + VAT
  
• Partial Rewire (room or circuit): From £950 + VAT
  

All quotes are fixed and tailored to your property. Optional extras like plaster patching, USB sockets, and lighting upgrades can be added.

Want a full breakdown? Visit our [Rewire Cost Guide].