The Complete Guide to Whole-House Rewiring

Is your home’s wiring older than your favorite vintage record? Or maybe you’ve noticed flickering lights and mystery trips at the breaker? You’re not alone. Homes age, and so do their electrical veins. At Angelic Electric, we see it every day—families just like yours, wanting peace of mind and a safer place to live.

Whole-house rewiring sounds big—and it is. But the benefits last for decades. Let's break it down, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect and how to get it done right.

When Does a Home Need Rewiring? ⚡

Picture your electrical system like the heart and arteries of your house. Over time, those arteries can clog, weaken, or simply not keep up with modern life. Here are the biggest signs your home may need rewiring:

• Frequent blown fuses or tripped breakers
• Flickering or dimming lights
• Buzzing outlets or switches
• Outlets or switches that feel warm
• Two-prong outlets throughout the house
• Aluminum wiring (common in homes from the 1960s and 70s)
• You have old knob-and-tube wiring

If your home is over 40 years old, it’s wise to get an Electrical Safety Inspection from a licensed electrician. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends regular checks for safety and insurance compliance.

Planning a Rewiring Project

A whole-house rewiring project is like open-heart surgery for your house—it needs careful planning. Start with these steps:

• Hire a licensed electrician who specializes in rewiring, not just quick repairs.
• Get a detailed estimate that includes labor, materials, and permits.
• Map your electrical needs for today and tomorrow (think: EV chargers, smart home tech, dedicated circuits for appliances).
• Schedule at the right time—plan ahead to avoid holidays, big life events, or harsh weather.

For more about our detailed process, check our Wiring & Circuits page.

What to Expect During the Process

Rewiring isn’t a weekend project. Here’s the usual flow:

1. Assessment and Planning
   Your electrician walks through the home, opens panels, and inspects circuits—like a detective searching for clues.

2. Permitting
   Permits ensure work meets local and national codes (refer to the National Electrical Code, NEC 2023 edition).

3. Shut-off and Prep
   Power is turned off to sections of the house. Furniture may be moved, and dust barriers set up.

4. Removing Old Wiring
   Outdated wiring comes out. Sometimes, this means cutting small access holes in walls or ceilings.

5. Installing New Wiring
   New, safer wires are run to all outlets, switches, and fixtures—including upgrades for GFCI, AFCI, and tamper-resistant outlets.

6. Inspection
   An inspector checks the work for code compliance and safety.

7. Finishing Touches
   Holes are patched, new outlets and switches installed, power restored—and your home is safer than ever.

Rewiring Safety and Code Compliance

Safety isn’t just a box to check. It’s the reason for the project. Licensed electricians follow strict rules from the NEC and your city’s building department. This helps prevent fire, shock hazards, and insurance issues.

Key safety features:

• Grounded outlets (three-prong)
• GFCI outlets in kitchens, baths, and outdoors
• AFCI protection in bedrooms and living areas
• Proper labeling in your breaker panel

Pro tip: Always ask for a final inspection report, and keep it for your records.

How to Choose a Contractor

Not all electricians are equal. Here’s what to look for when hiring for a major rewiring job:

• License and insurance—never skip this.
• Experience with whole-home projects, not just minor repairs.
• Clear communication and transparent estimates.
• References and positive reviews (ask for recent rewiring clients).
• Familiarity with local codes and permit processes.

If you live nearby, you can find an electrician company with a strong reputation for safe, thorough work.

Quick Safety Checklist Before You Start

• Unplug sensitive electronics before work begins.
• Move valuables and furniture away from walls.
• Plan for short power outages—charge devices, prep meals.
• Notify your security company if you have alarms or cameras.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Rewiring is not a DIY-friendly project. It’s like trying to perform your own dental surgery. The risks—shock, fire, code violations—are just too high. Instead, focus on what you do best, and let a trained electrician handle the wires.

Timeline, Costs, and Disruption

Every home and project is unique, but here’s a general guide:

• Timeline: 3 to 10 days, depending on the size of your home and the scope of work.
• Cost: Varies by region, square footage, and complexity; always get a written estimate.
• Disruption: Some drywall cutting and patching is unavoidable. Good electricians use drop cloths and minimize mess.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

• Waiting until something goes seriously wrong.
• Hiring unlicensed contractors for a lower price.
• Failing to plan for future needs (like home automation or EV chargers).
• Overlooking surge protection or dedicated appliance circuits.

Seasonal and Emergency Considerations

Certain times of year—like storm season—can put extra strain on old wiring. If you notice sparking, burning smells, or persistent outages, treat it as an emergency. Angelic Electric offers 24 hour Repairs if you need help fast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rewiring messy?
Some dust is inevitable, but careful prep and clean-up make a big difference.

Can I stay home during the process?
Usually yes, but expect some rooms to be off-limits for a few hours.

Do I need to upgrade my panel too?
Often, yes—especially if your panel is also outdated or undersized.

Will this raise my home’s value?
Safer, modern wiring is a major selling point and can lower insurance costs.

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

• Schedule regular electrical safety inspections.
• Replace worn outlets and switches promptly.
• Don’t overload outlets—use power strips with surge protection.
• Keep all records of electrical work for insurance and resale.

The Bottom Line: Safety, Comfort, and Peace of Mind

Whole-house rewiring is a commitment, but it’s the foundation for a safer, smarter home. Whether you’re renovating, selling, or just want to sleep better at night, professional rewiring is the way to go. Angelic Electric is here to guide you through every step—from planning to final inspection.

Call Angelic Electric now — or reach us anytime at  844-440-1817 .