House rewiring cost depends on how much wiring is being replaced, how it can be accessed and what happens to the finishes afterwards. A useful quote starts with an assessment and a clear schedule of rooms, outlets and circuits.
In this guide
Define partial or full rewiring
A partial rewire addresses a defined part of the installation. A full rewire has a wider scope, but the phrase still needs a written description of what is included. Clarify lighting, sockets, fixed appliances, switchboard work and any outbuildings.
Our electrical renovation service includes rewiring work. If you are booking locally, our house rewiring in Wellington page explains how to prepare for a site assessment.
Access can change the work
Roof and underfloor access, wall construction, ceiling height and occupied rooms all affect how cables can be installed. Tell us if other renovation work will open walls or ceilings. Coordinating that access may change the practical options.
Do not remove linings or disturb unfamiliar materials to investigate cable routes yourself. Tell the project team about any known hazardous-material reports before work is scoped.
Create a room schedule
| Record for each room | Why it belongs in the quote |
|---|---|
| Existing and proposed sockets | Defines quantity and position. |
| Lighting and switches | Separates wiring work from new fitting choices. |
| Fixed appliances | Identifies equipment needing its own assessment. |
| Access and finishes | Shows likely opening, patching and decorating work. |
| Future changes | Allows planned kitchen, heating or charging needs to be considered. |
Mark items as retain, replace or add. This makes it easier to compare quotes and avoid pricing different versions of the project.
Separate electrical work and making good
Ask who handles opening walls, patching, plastering, painting, moving furniture and waste removal. Clarify whether fittings are supplied by you or the electrician and how changes are agreed. Confirm GST, allowances and exclusions in writing.
Where the board also needs attention, compare the switchboard upgrade scope as a separate part of the project. A new enclosure alone does not describe all circuit or supply work.
Plan occupation, power and records
Discuss whether you will stay in the home, what access is needed each day and how interruptions will be managed. Tell us about essential powered equipment and tenant arrangements early. Agree the sequence with the other trades before booking decorating.
At handover, ask for updated circuit identification, an explanation of the completed scope and the electrical documentation applicable to the work. Keep any inspection and testing records with the property file. This planning guide cannot determine the condition or design requirements of your installation.
Questions about Rewiring costs
Can floor area alone give an accurate rewiring price?
No. Outlet count, circuits, access, occupation and finishing can differ considerably between homes of the same size. A room schedule makes the quote more useful.
Does a full rewire include plastering and painting?
That depends on the agreed scope. Confirm who is responsible for making good and decorating before accepting a quote.
Send us your renovation plans and a room-by-room list of electrical changes. We can assess the installation and define a rewiring scope you can price with confidence.