How Much Does Whole-Home Rewiring Cost?

Feeling anxious about your home’s electrical wiring? You’re not alone. Many people wonder if their house is as safe as it should be. Maybe your lights flicker, or outlets feel warm. Or perhaps you’ve bought an older home and want peace of mind.

Whole-home rewiring is a big step—but it could be one of the smartest moves you’ll ever make for your safety and your property. At Heintz Electric, we know the process, the pitfalls, and the real costs. Let’s break it down together.

Cost Factors: What Drives the Price of Whole-Home Rewiring? ⚡

Rewiring a house isn’t a one-size-fits-all project. Think of it like updating the nervous system of your home. The cost can swing widely, depending on several key ingredients:

• Home Size: Bigger homes need more wire, more labor, and more circuits. A tiny cottage might cost less than $8,000, while a large, multi-story house can run north of $20,000.
• Age of the Home: Old houses often bring surprises—like outdated knob-and-tube wiring or hidden junction boxes. More surprises usually mean more labor and materials.
• Accessibility: If your walls are open or unfinished, the job is easier. Finished walls, basements, and tight attic spaces add time and complexity.
• Electrical Code Updates: Modern safety standards (like AFCI and GFCI protection) are stricter than ever. You may need new panels, extra outlets, or even an upgraded electrical service to meet today’s code.
• Material Choices: Copper wire is standard. Specialty wiring, designer outlets, or high-end fixtures can add up quickly.
• Regional Labor Rates: Prices vary based on where you live and the experience of your electrician.

According to the National Association of Home Builders and the National Electrical Code (NEC), keeping up with modern standards is essential for safety and insurance compliance.

Typical range: For a standard U.S. home, expect to spend between $10,000 and $18,000. Complex homes, or those with special needs, may exceed $25,000.

What’s Included in a Whole-Home Rewiring Project?

Rewiring isn’t just about swapping out old wires. It’s a full tune-up for your home’s electrical system.

Here’s what’s usually on the checklist:

• Removal of old wiring: Out with the unsafe, in with the safe.
• Replacement of all outlets, switches, and plates: New, safer, and code-compliant.
• Installation of new circuits: For kitchens, bathrooms, and large appliances.
• Upgraded electrical panel or breakers: If your old panel can’t handle new loads.
• Safety devices: Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, GFCI/AFCI outlets.
• Permits and inspections: Ensuring every step meets local and national code.
• Cleanup and patchwork: Some wall and ceiling repair may be needed after installation.

If you need extra features—like low voltage systems, home automation, or surge protection—those are usually added on as separate line items. At Heintz Electric, we offer a full menu of Rewiring and re-wiring services.

How to Budget for a Whole-Home Rewiring

This isn’t pocket change, but there are smart ways to plan for it.

Create a Realistic Budget

• Get a detailed estimate: Make sure your electrician walks through your house and explains every line item.
• Plan for surprises: Older homes almost always uncover extra work—set aside an extra 15% for contingencies.
• Ask about phased projects: Can the work be broken into stages over time?
• Check for rebates or incentives: Some local governments offer help if you’re upgrading for efficiency or safety.

Control Costs Without Cutting Corners

• Keep the layout simple: The fewer changes to your home’s original wiring plan, the less time and material required.
• Open walls in advance if you’re remodeling: Let your electrician work faster.
• Prioritize rooms: Start with kitchens, baths, and high-use areas.
• Avoid unnecessary upgrades: Fancy fixtures can always come later.

Signs Your Home May Need Rewiring

Worried you might need this work? Here are red flags:

• Frequent blown fuses or tripped breakers
• Outlets or switches that are warm, discolored, or sparking
• Flickering lights—even after bulb changes
• Two-prong outlets (no ground wire)
• Burning smells or buzzing sounds from walls
• Aluminum wiring (common in homes built 1965–1973)

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to call an electrician.

Safety First: Why Professional Rewiring is Worth It

DIY electrical work is tempting—but mistakes are easy and can be deadly. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), faulty wiring is a top cause of residential fires.

A professional electrician doesn’t just swap wires. They:

• Check the entire system for hidden hazards
• Use code-approved materials
• Pull the right permits and schedule inspections
• Ensure your insurance remains valid

Think of it as a seatbelt for your home. It protects your family, your investment, and your peace of mind.

Timeline & Disruption: What to Expect

Rewiring isn’t a weekend project. Most homes take 5–10 business days. Older or larger homes can stretch to several weeks, especially if walls need careful opening and repair.

What’s life like during rewiring?

• Some rooms may be out of commission for a day or two.
• Expect noise, dust, and workers moving throughout your home.
• Temporary power outages are common—but your electrician will work to minimize downtime.

What About Permits and Inspections?

You can’t skip them. Licensed electricians pull permits and schedule inspections at key steps. This isn’t just red tape. It’s your assurance that the work is up to code and safe for your family.

Prevention & Maintenance: Protect Your Investment

After rewiring, a few simple habits will keep your home safe for decades:

• Don’t overload outlets.
• Schedule periodic electrical safety inspections, especially if you add new appliances.
• Keep an eye on outlets and switches—if anything seems off, call for help.
• Consider surge protection for sensitive electronics.

When Is It an Emergency?

Some electrical issues can’t wait:

• Burning smells, smoke, or visible sparks
• Outlets or switches that are hot to the touch
• Complete loss of power (not due to a utility outage)

If you see these signs, shut off power at the breaker and call for emergency service. Heintz Electric offers 24-hour and emergency response.

Should You Rewire During a Remodel?

Yes—if you’re opening walls anyway, this is the best time. It saves labor and helps future-proof your home. Even small remodels (like a kitchen upgrade) are a great chance to update circuits and add outlets.

Cost-Saving Tips for Smart Homeowners

• Bundle electrical projects together (like lighting upgrades or new appliance circuits).
• Ask your electrician about the latest safety tech—sometimes newer devices can save you money in the long run.
• Check your insurance policy—some companies offer discounts for homes with updated electrical systems.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Hiring unlicensed contractors. This can void your insurance and put your family at risk.
• Skipping permits or inspections.
• Choosing the cheapest bid without a thorough, written estimate.
• Ignoring signs of trouble—small issues can become big hazards quickly.

FAQ: Quick Answers

Q: Can I live in my house during rewiring?
A: Usually yes, though it may be inconvenient for a few days.

Q: Will my power be off the whole time?
A: No. Electricians typically work on one section at a time to keep disruptions minimal.

Q: Do I need to upgrade my panel?
A: Often, yes—especially if your current panel is outdated or too small for modern loads.

How Heintz Electric Can Help

Every home is different. That’s why our team starts every whole-home rewiring project with a detailed walkthrough and a customized plan. Whether you need a complete overhaul, safety inspection, or just want to talk through your options, we’re here to help.

If you’re in Suwanee, our electrician services are just a call away. We pride ourselves on clear estimates, safe practices, and treating your home as our own.

Call Heintz Electric now — or reach us anytime at  877-315-8745 .