House Rewiring Cost in Edinburgh: Complete 2025 Pricing Guide

Planning to rewire your Edinburgh home? Understanding the costs involved helps you budget properly and avoid surprises. This comprehensive 2025 guide breaks down everything you need to know about house rewiring costs in Edinburgh.

Average House Rewiring Costs in Edinburgh (2025)

Property Type	Typical Cost Range	Duration
1-Bedroom Flat	£2,500 - £3,500	3-5 days
2-Bedroom Flat	£3,200 - £4,500	5-7 days
3-Bedroom House	£4,500 - £6,500	7-10 days
4-Bedroom House	£6,000 - £8,500	10-14 days
5-Bedroom House	£8,000 - £12,000+	14-21 days

Costs vary significantly based on factors explained below. These are Edinburgh-specific averages including labor, materials, and certification.

What's Included in a Full Rewire?

A complete house rewire in Edinburgh typically includes:

Core Electrical Work

• Complete removal of old wiring
• Installation of new cables throughout property
• New consumer unit (fuse box) with RCD protection
• New sockets and switches throughout
• New light fittings and ceiling roses
• Earthing and bonding to current standards
• Smoke alarm system installation

Documentation

• Electrical Installation Certificate
• Building warrant application (if required)
• Compliance certification
• Circuit diagrams and records

Not Usually Included

• Decorating and plastering repairs
• Upgraded light fixtures (beyond basic)
• Specialist features (home automation, security systems)
• Appliance installations
• Outdoor electrical work

Factors Affecting Rewiring Costs

1. Property Size and Layout

Larger properties require more cable, more sockets, and more labor time. Complex layouts with multiple floors add to costs.

2. Property Age and Type

Period Properties (Pre-1950s):

• Solid stone walls require specialized drilling
• Limited access for cable runs
• May need external conduits in places
• Cost premium: +20-30%

Modern Properties (Post-1970s):

• Cavity walls allow easier cable routing
• More straightforward access
• Typically faster and cheaper

3. Edinburgh-Specific Factors

Tenement Flats:

• Shared electrical systems to consider
• Common stair lighting responsibilities
• Limited access through stone walls
• May need factor/neighbor approval
• Cost premium: +15-25%

Listed Buildings:

• Conservation requirements
• Listed building consent may be needed
• Surface-mounted solutions often required
• More expensive conduit systems
• Cost premium: +30-50%

4. Access and Furniture

• Empty properties: Standard pricing
• Occupied with furniture: +10-15% (more time moving furniture, protecting contents)
• Difficult access (high rise, no parking): +5-10%

5. Additional Sockets and Features

Standard rewires include reasonable socket numbers, but extras cost more:

• Additional double socket: £40-£60 each
• USB charging sockets: £60-£80 each
• Outdoor sockets: £80-£120 each
• Shower circuits: £150-£250
• Electric vehicle charger preparation: £200-£400

6. Consumer Unit Specifications

• Standard consumer unit with RCD protection: £300-£500
• High-specification metal unit with RCBO protection: £600-£900
• Smart consumer units with monitoring: £800-£1,200

Partial Rewiring Options

Not all properties need complete rewiring. Partial rewires can address specific concerns:

Consumer Unit Upgrade Only

• Cost: £400-£800
• Replaces outdated fuse box with modern RCD protection
• Doesn't address old cable issues
• Good for properties with decent existing wiring

Single Room Rewire

• Kitchen: £800-£1,500
• Bathroom: £600-£1,200
• Living room: £600-£1,000
• Bedroom: £400-£800

Lighting Circuit Only

• Whole house: £1,200-£2,500
• Addresses pendant flex fire risk
• New ceiling roses and switches

Signs Your Edinburgh Home Needs Rewiring

Minimizing Disruption During Rewiring

Before Work Starts

• Clear access to all rooms
• Remove valuable items from rooms
• Arrange alternative accommodation if needed (especially for small flats)
• Inform neighbors (particularly in tenement buildings)

During the Work

• Work is done room by room when possible
• Power can usually be maintained to parts of property
• First fix (running cables) is the messy part
• Second fix (fitting sockets/switches) is cleaner

Money-Saving Tips (Without Compromising Safety)

1. Time Your Project

Winter months (November-February) can sometimes offer better rates as it's quieter for electricians.

2. Do Your Own Decoration

Electricians will make good but basic repairs. Doing your own plastering and decorating afterward can save 15-20%.

3. Standard vs. Premium Fittings

Choosing standard white sockets and switches saves significantly vs. designer options. You can always upgrade later.

4. Bundle Multiple Jobs

If you're renovating, combine electrical work with other trades for efficiency savings.

5. Get Multiple Quotes

Aim for 3 detailed written quotes from reputable Edinburgh electricians. Compare what's included, not just price.

Financing Options

Rewiring is a significant investment. Consider:

• Home improvement loans: Banks offer specific loans for property improvements
• Remortgaging: If you have equity, this can offer lower interest rates
• Credit cards: For smaller jobs, 0% purchase cards can work
• Energy Company Obligation (ECO): Some low-income households qualify for grants

Questions to Ask When Getting Quotes

• "What exactly is included in this price?"
• "What type of consumer unit and circuit protection?"
• "How many sockets per room are included?"
• "Will you make good all holes and chases?"
• "Who's responsible for decorating?"
• "What certification will I receive?"
• "How long will the work take?"
• "What payment schedule do you require?"
• "Is there a guarantee on your work?"

Return on Investment

While rewiring is expensive, consider these benefits:

• Safety: Eliminates fire and electrocution risks
• Property Value: Adds 2-5% to property value
• Insurance: Lower premiums with modern electrical systems
• Efficiency: Better electrical efficiency saves on energy bills
• Future-Proofing: Ready for EV chargers, smart homes, etc.
• Selling: Certified electrical work makes properties more marketable

Final Thoughts

House rewiring in Edinburgh is a significant investment, but it's essential for safety and property value. Costs vary widely based on your specific property, but with proper planning and the right electrician, you can ensure quality work at a fair price.

Don't let cost alone drive your decision - electrical work is about safety first. Choose a qualified, insured electrician with experience in Edinburgh properties, particularly if you're in a period building or tenement flat.

Ready to discuss your rewiring project? Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote and expert advice tailored to your Edinburgh property.