Rewiring a house is one of the most significant electrical upgrades any homeowner will undertake, yet understanding the true cost of rewiring can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with outdated or faulty wiring in an older home or planning a complete renovation, knowing what to expect financially helps you make informed decisions about this essential investment.
The cost to rewire a house in Australia varies considerably based on factors like house size, the complexity of existing wiring, and regional labour costs. While a complete rewire might seem expensive upfront, it delivers crucial benefits including compliance with Australian electrical standards, enhanced safety through modern circuit breakers and safety switches, and the peace of mind that comes with a reliable electrical system.
This complete guide breaks down house rewiring costs across Australia, explores the key factors affecting the cost of rewiring, and provides practical insights to help you plan your rewiring project. From understanding what a rewiring job involves to choosing the right electrician for your needs, you’ll discover everything required to get your house rewired safely and cost-effectively.
Why Rewiring Is Necessary
Understanding when and why you need to rewire your house helps justify the investment and ensures your home’s electrical system meets modern safety standards. If the wiring is overdue, a full house rewiring brings the installation up to current requirements.
Several critical factors make rewiring essential for older homes, particularly those with wiring systems that are 30 years old or more.
Fire and Safety Risks
Outdated wiring poses serious fire and electrocution hazards that put your family and property at risk. Old electrical wires deteriorate over time, with insulation breaking down and connections becoming loose or corroded. Faulty wiring is responsible for thousands of house fires annually across Australia, making a full rewire a crucial safety upgrade. Checking for issues against a practical switchboard safety compliance checklist can highlight urgent fixes.
Ancient wiring systems often lack modern safety features like circuit breakers and safety switches (RCDs), which are now mandatory under Australian electrical standards.
Modern Electrical Demands
Today’s homes require significantly more electricity than houses from previous decades. Modern appliances, air conditioning systems, electric vehicle chargers, and smart home technology all demand higher electrical capacity. An old home with original wiring simply cannot handle these increased loads safely. Rewiring the entire house ensures your electrical system can support contemporary lifestyle needs while providing adequate power points and sockets throughout your property.
Compliance and Insurance Requirements
Australian electrical standards have evolved considerably, and older wiring systems rarely meet current compliance requirements. Insurance companies increasingly scrutinize electrical systems, and some may refuse coverage or charge higher premiums for homes with non-compliant wiring. Common problem areas appear in what will fail an electrical inspection. Getting your home rewired with a proper compliance certificate not only satisfies insurance requirements but also adds value to your property and provides peace of mind for future buyers.
Typical Cost to Rewire a House in Australia
The cost to rewire a house in Australia typically ranges from $4,000 to $12,000, though your final price will depend on multiple factors including the size of your house, existing wiring condition, and regional labour costs. Understanding these house rewiring costs in Australia helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises during your electrical rewiring project.
| Home Size | Bedrooms | Cost Range | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Home | 2 bedrooms | $4,000 – $6,000 | 3-5 days |
| Medium Home | 3 bedrooms | $6,500 – $9,000 | 5-7 days |
| Large Home | 4+ bedrooms | $9,000 – $12,000+ | 7-14 days |
The average cost to rewire varies significantly across different states and regions:
- Major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) typically see higher costs due to increased labour rates and stricter compliance requirements
- Regional areas often offer more competitive pricing, though specialist electricians may charge travel fees
- Western Australia and remote locations may experience premium pricing due to distance and material transport costs
- Heritage or character homes can expect to pay 20-30% more due to complex access requirements
These figures generally include labour costs, standard materials like electrical wires and basic power points, and a new switchboard upgrade. However, the overall cost of rewiring your house may increase if you require extensive wall restoration, premium fittings, or additional circuits for high-demand appliances.
Key Factors That Influence Rewiring Costs
Multiple factors affecting the cost of rewiring determine your final bill, with some elements having more impact than others. Understanding these factors that influence the total rewiring price helps you make informed decisions and potentially reduce costs where possible.
Home Size & Layout
The size of your home directly impacts the cost per metre of electrical work required. Larger homes require more wiring, additional power points, new sockets, and extended labour time. A single-storey home typically costs less to rewire than a multi-storey property due to easier access to the wiring from outside the house. Complex layouts with multiple rooms, extensions, or unusual architectural features require more careful planning and additional materials, which can increase the rewiring price significantly.
Age & Condition of the Property
Rewiring an old home presents unique challenges that influence the cost considerably. Properties built before the 1980s often have outdated or faulty wiring that needs complete replacement rather than partial upgrades. Older homes may require more extensive electrical work to bring the entire house up to current Australian electrical standards.
Heritage properties or those with solid brick construction can be particularly expensive to rewire due to limited access to existing wiring and the need for specialized techniques to avoid structural damage.
Labour Costs
Electrician rates vary significantly across Australia, typically ranging from $75 to $125 per hour depending on location and experience. Labour costs represent the largest portion of your rewiring project budget, often accounting for 60-70% of the total cost. Consider the electrician’s qualifications, experience with similar homes, and local reputation when comparing quotes. Regional areas may offer lower hourly rates, while major cities command premium pricing due to higher living costs and increased demand for electrical work.
Materials & Equipment
The type of wiring and electrical components chosen affects your overall investment considerably. Here’s what homeowners can expect to pay for key materials:
| Component | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Copper Wiring | $600 – $650 | Per average home |
| Power Points | $65 – $120 each | Including installation |
| New Switchboard | $700 – $1,000 | Safety switches included |
| Circuit Breakers | $45 – $80 each | Varies by amperage |
| Safety Switches (RCDs) | $150 – $250 each | Mandatory for compliance |
Premium materials and smart electrical systems will increase these base costs, but they often provide better long-term value and enhanced functionality.
Accessibility & Complexity
Access to the wiring significantly impacts labour time and overall costs. Homes with easy roof space access or accessible underfloor areas keep rewiring costs down by allowing efficient cable installation. Properties with slab foundations, tight ceiling spaces, or walls that require extensive opening can double the time required for electrical work. The ease of access to existing wiring routes determines whether your electrician can work efficiently or must take time-consuming alternative approaches that may cost significantly more.
What’s Included in a Rewiring Project
Understanding what rewiring a house means and what your rewiring job includes helps you evaluate quotes and ensures you receive comprehensive electrical work. A complete rewiring project is essential for homes that need updated wiring systems, and the rewiring process typically involves several key components that transform your electrical system.
A standard rewiring job includes these essential elements:
- Removal of existing wiring – Rewiring a house means removing old wires and outdated electrical components that no longer meet Australian electrical standards. Your electrician will carefully extract faulty wiring while preserving wall integrity where possible.
- Installing new power points and sockets – Modern homes require more electrical outlets than older properties provided. Installing new power points throughout your house ensures adequate access to electricity in every room, while new sockets replace outdated designs that may not accommodate contemporary appliances.
- Complete wiring system replacement – The rewiring process involves running new electrical wires throughout the entire house, replacing the old wiring system with modern copper cables that can handle today’s electrical demands safely and efficiently.
- New switchboard installation – A rewiring project typically includes a compliant switchboard upgrade with modern circuit breakers and safety switches. This upgrade is essential for compliance and provides enhanced protection against electrical faults.
- Safety switch and RCD installation – Modern electrical systems require safety switches (residual current devices) that instantly cut power when electrical faults are detected. These devices are now mandatory under Australian electrical standards and provide crucial protection.
- Testing and compliance certification – After completing the electrical work, your electrician will conduct comprehensive testing to ensure everything meets current standards. You’ll receive a compliance certificate that satisfies insurance requirements and demonstrates your electrical system is safe and legal.
The benefits of rewiring extend beyond basic functionality, as a properly executed rewiring job provides improved electrical capacity, enhanced safety features, and the peace of mind that comes with a reliable wiring system that can handle modern electrical demands.
How Long Does Rewiring Take?
The timeline for rewiring a home depends heavily on the size of your home and complexity of the electrical work required. Understanding how long your rewiring project might take helps you plan for disruption and make arrangements if you need temporary accommodation during major electrical work.
Rewiring costs often correlate with project duration, as longer jobs typically involve more complex wiring systems or challenging access conditions. Here’s what homeowners can expect to pay in terms of time investment:
Small homes (2 bedrooms) typically require 3-5 days for complete rewiring. These properties have simpler wiring systems and fewer circuits to install, making the rewiring process more straightforward. A house may be liveable during this timeframe if you can manage without power for portions of each day.
Medium homes (3 bedrooms) usually need about 1 week for comprehensive electrical rewiring. The additional rooms require more wiring, extra power points, and potentially more complex switchboard configurations. Rewiring might involve staying elsewhere if you have young children or cannot function without reliable electricity.
Large homes (4+ bedrooms) can take up to 2 weeks or longer, especially if they require more wiring due to complex layouts or multiple storeys. Older homes with difficult access to existing wiring often extend project timelines significantly.
Several factors influence how long your house needs rewiring work, and timing is easier to judge once you know how often a house should be rewired:
- Accessibility – Easy access to roof spaces and underfloor areas speeds up the rewiring process considerably
- Living arrangements – Staying in the house during rewiring might slow progress as electricians work around your schedule
- Weather conditions – External electrical work can be delayed by rain or extreme weather
- Inspection schedules – Compliance electrical safetyΒ inspections must fit within regulatory timeframes, which can affect project completion
- Material availability – Complex wiring systems or specialty components may require ordering time
Most electrical work progresses faster when homeowners temporarily relocate, allowing electricians to work efficiently without disrupting daily routines or worrying about power restoration each evening.
Additional Costs to Consider When Rewiring a House
While the base cost of rewiring your house covers essential electrical work, many homeowners discover their total rewiring expenses extend beyond the initial quote. Understanding these potential additional costs helps you budget more accurately and avoid surprises that might significantly impact your overall investment.
The cost per additional feature varies considerably, and much does it cost often depends on the complexity of installation and your specific requirements. Here are common extras that homeowners should expect to pay for beyond basic rewiring:
| Additional Service | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Wall/Ceiling Restoration | $1,500 – $4,000 | Repairing damage from wiring access |
| Extra Power Points | $65 – $120 each | Installing new sockets beyond standard |
| Downlight Installation | $45 – $90 per light | LED downlights and wiring |
| Smart Switch Upgrade | $150 – $300 each | Dimmer and automated controls |
| EV Charger Circuit | $800 – $1,500 | Dedicated high-amp charging point |
| Air Conditioning Circuit | $400 – $800 | Heavy-duty wiring for AC units |
| Pool/Spa Electrical | $1,200 – $2,500 | Specialized outdoor wiring |
| Home Automation Wiring | $500 – $2,000 | Network and control cables |
Your house may require additional electrical work that wasn’t apparent during the initial inspection. Older homes often involve replacing more components than expected once walls are opened and the full extent of outdated wiring becomes visible. When rewiring might reveal structural issues or asbestos concerns, remediation costs can add thousands to your project budget.
Installing new power points beyond the minimum required number is a good idea to rewire with future needs in mind. Modern homes benefit from additional sockets in bedrooms, kitchens, and living areas where electrical demands continue growing. The cost will depend on how many extra circuits your house needs and whether existing cable routes can accommodate additional wiring.
Some homes require specialized electrical work that significantly affects the rewiring price. Properties in bushfire-prone areas need specific cable types and installation methods, while heritage homes might need custom solutions that preserve architectural features. These requirements can involve replacing standard approaches with more expensive alternatives that meet both safety standards and planning regulations.
Cost to Rewire a House in Australia: 2025 Pricing Guide for Homeowners
Rewiring a house is one of the most significant electrical upgrades any homeowner will undertake, yet understanding the true cost of rewiring can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with outdated or faulty wiring in an older home or planning a complete renovation, knowing what to expect financially helps you make informed decisions about this essential investment.
The cost to rewire a house in Australia varies considerably based on factors like house size, the complexity of existing wiring, and regional labour costs. While a complete rewire might seem expensive upfront, it delivers crucial benefits including compliance with Australian electrical standards, enhanced safety through modern circuit breakers and safety switches, and the peace of mind that comes with a reliable electrical system.
This complete guide breaks down house rewiring costs across Australia, explores the key factors affecting the cost of rewiring, and provides practical insights to help you plan your rewiring project. From understanding what a rewiring job involves to choosing the right electrician for your needs, you’ll discover everything required to get your house rewired safely and cost-effectively.
Why Rewiring Is Necessary
Understanding when and why you need to rewire your house helps justify the investment and ensures your home’s electrical system meets modern safety standards. Several critical factors make rewiring essential for older homes, particularly those with wiring systems that are 30 years old or more.
Fire and Safety Risks
Outdated wiring poses serious fire and electrocution hazards that put your family and property at risk. Old electrical wires deteriorate over time, with insulation breaking down and connections becoming loose or corroded. Faulty wiring is responsible for thousands of house fires annually across Australia, making a full rewire a crucial safety upgrade. Ancient wiring systems often lack modern safety features like circuit breakers and safety switches (RCDs), which are now mandatory under Australian electrical standards.
Modern Electrical Demands
Today’s homes require significantly more electricity than houses from previous decades. Modern appliances, air conditioning systems, electric vehicle chargers, and smart home technology all demand higher electrical capacity. An old home with original wiring simply cannot handle these increased loads safely. Rewiring the entire house ensures your electrical system can support contemporary lifestyle needs while providing adequate power points and sockets throughout your property.
Compliance and Insurance Requirements
Australian electrical standards have evolved considerably, and older wiring systems rarely meet current compliance requirements. Insurance companies increasingly scrutinize electrical systems, and some may refuse coverage or charge higher premiums for homes with non-compliant wiring. Getting your home rewired with a proper compliance certificate not only satisfies insurance requirements but also adds value to your property and provides peace of mind for future buyers.
Typical Cost to Rewire a House in Australia
The cost to rewire a house in Australia typically ranges from $4,000 to $12,000, though your final price will depend on multiple factors including the size of your house, existing wiring condition, and regional labour costs. Understanding these house rewiring costs in Australia helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises during your electrical rewiring project.
| Home Size | Bedrooms | Cost Range | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Home | 2 bedrooms | $4,000 – $6,000 | 3-5 days |
| Medium Home | 3 bedrooms | $6,500 – $9,000 | 5-7 days |
| Large Home | 4+ bedrooms | $9,000 – $12,000+ | 7-14 days |
The average cost to rewire varies significantly across different states and regions:
- Major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) typically see higher costs due to increased labour rates and stricter compliance requirements
- Regional areas often offer more competitive pricing, though specialist electricians may charge travel fees
- Western Australia and remote locations may experience premium pricing due to distance and material transport costs
- Heritage or character homes can expect to pay 20-30% more due to complex access requirements
These figures generally include labour costs, standard materials like electrical wires and basic power points, and a new switchboard upgrade. However, the overall cost of rewiring your house may increase if you require extensive wall restoration, premium fittings, or additional circuits for high-demand appliances.
Key Factors That Influence Rewiring Costs
Multiple factors affecting the cost of rewiring determine your final bill, with some elements having more impact than others. Understanding these factors that influence the total rewiring price helps you make informed decisions and potentially reduce costs where possible.
Home Size & Layout
The size of your home directly impacts the cost per metre of electrical work required. Larger homes require more wiring, additional power points, new sockets, and extended labour time. A single-storey home typically costs less to rewire than a multi-storey property due to easier access to the wiring from outside the house. Complex layouts with multiple rooms, extensions, or unusual architectural features require more careful planning and additional materials, which can increase the rewiring price significantly.
Age & Condition of the Property
Rewiring an old home presents unique challenges that influence the cost considerably. Properties built before the 1980s often have outdated or faulty wiring that needs complete replacement rather than partial upgrades. Older homes may require more extensive electrical work to bring the entire house up to current Australian electrical standards. Heritage properties or those with solid brick construction can be particularly expensive to rewire due to limited access to existing wiring and the need for specialized techniques to avoid structural damage.
Labour Costs
Electrician rates vary significantly across Australia, typically ranging from $75 to $125 per hour depending on location and experience. Labour costs represent the largest portion of your rewiring project budget, often accounting for 60-70% of the total cost. Consider the electrician’s qualifications, experience with similar homes, and local reputation when comparing quotes. Regional areas may offer lower hourly rates, while major cities command premium pricing due to higher living costs and increased demand for electrical work.
Materials & Equipment
The type of wiring and electrical components chosen affects your overall investment considerably. Here’s what homeowners can expect to pay for key materials:
| Component | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Copper Wiring | $600 – $650 | Per average home |
| Power Points | $65 – $120 each | Including installation |
| New Switchboard | $700 – $1,000 | Safety switches included |
| Circuit Breakers | $45 – $80 each | Varies by amperage |
| Safety Switches (RCDs) | $150 – $250 each | Mandatory for compliance |
Premium materials and smart electrical systems will increase these base costs, but they often provide better long-term value and enhanced functionality.
Accessibility & Complexity
Access to the wiring significantly impacts labour time and overall costs. Homes with easy roof space access or accessible underfloor areas keep rewiring costs down by allowing efficient cable installation. Properties with slab foundations, tight ceiling spaces, or walls that require extensive opening can double the time required for electrical work. The ease of access to existing wiring routes determines whether your electrician can work efficiently or must take time-consuming alternative approaches that may cost significantly more.
What’s Included in a Rewiring Project
Understanding what rewiring a house means and what your rewiring job includes helps you evaluate quotes and ensures you receive comprehensive electrical work. A complete rewiring project is essential for homes that need updated wiring systems, and the rewiring process typically involves several key components that transform your electrical system.
A standard rewiring job includes these essential elements:
- Removal of existing wiring – Rewiring a house means removing old wires and outdated electrical components that no longer meet Australian electrical standards. Your electrician will carefully extract faulty wiring while preserving wall integrity where possible.
- Installing new power points and sockets – Modern homes require more electrical outlets than older properties provided. Installing new power points throughout your house ensures adequate access to electricity in every room, while new sockets replace outdated designs that may not accommodate contemporary appliances.
- Complete wiring system replacement – The rewiring process involves running new electrical wires throughout the entire house, replacing the old wiring system with modern copper cables that can handle today’s electrical demands safely and efficiently.
- New switchboard installation – A rewiring project typically includes upgrading your switchboard with modern circuit breakers and mandatory safety switches. This upgrade is essential for compliance and provides enhanced protection against electrical faults.
- Safety switch and RCD installation – Modern electrical systems require safety switches (residual current devices) that instantly cut power when electrical faults are detected. These devices are now mandatory under Australian electrical standards and provide crucial protection.
- Testing and compliance certification – After completing the electrical work, your electrician will conduct comprehensive testing to ensure everything meets current standards. You’ll receive a compliance certificate that satisfies insurance requirements and demonstrates your electrical system is safe and legal.
The benefits of rewiring extend beyond basic functionality, as a properly executed rewiring job provides improved electrical capacity, enhanced safety features, and the peace of mind that comes with a reliable wiring system that can handle modern electrical demands.
How Long Does Rewiring Take?
The timeline for rewiring a home depends heavily on the size of your home and complexity of the electrical work required. Understanding how long your rewiring project might take helps you plan for disruption and make arrangements if you need temporary accommodation during major electrical work.
Rewiring costs often correlate with project duration, as longer jobs typically involve more complex wiring systems or challenging access conditions. Here’s what homeowners can expect to pay in terms of time investment:
Small homes (2 bedrooms) typically require 3-5 days for complete rewiring. These properties have simpler wiring systems and fewer circuits to install, making the rewiring process more straightforward. A house may be liveable during this timeframe if you can manage without power for portions of each day.
Medium homes (3 bedrooms) usually need about 1 week for comprehensive electrical rewiring. The additional rooms require more wiring, extra power points, and potentially more complex switchboard configurations. Rewiring might involve staying elsewhere if you have young children or cannot function without reliable electricity.
Large homes (4+ bedrooms) can take up to 2 weeks or longer, especially if they require more wiring due to complex layouts or multiple storeys. Older homes with difficult access to existing wiring often extend project timelines significantly.
Several factors influence how long your house needs rewiring work:
- Accessibility – Easy access to roof spaces and underfloor areas speeds up the rewiring process considerably
- Living arrangements – Staying in the house during rewiring might slow progress as electricians work around your schedule
- Weather conditions – External electrical work can be delayed by rain or extreme weather
- Inspection schedules – Compliance inspections must fit within regulatory timeframes, which can affect project completion
- Material availability – Complex wiring systems or specialty components may require ordering time
Most electrical work progresses faster when homeowners temporarily relocate, allowing electricians to work efficiently without disrupting daily routines or worrying about power restoration each evening.
Additional Costs to Consider
While the base cost of rewiring your house covers essential electrical work, many homeowners discover their total rewiring expenses extend beyond the initial quote. Understanding these potential additional costs helps you budget more accurately and avoid surprises that might significantly impact your overall investment.
The cost per additional feature varies considerably, and much does it cost often depends on the complexity of installation and your specific requirements. Here are common extras that homeowners should expect to pay for beyond basic rewiring:
| Additional Service | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Wall/Ceiling Restoration | $1,500 – $4,000 | Repairing damage from wiring access |
| Extra Power Points | $65 – $120 each | Installing new sockets beyond standard |
| Downlight Installation | $45 – $90 per light | LED downlights and wiring |
| Smart Switch Upgrade | $150 – $300 each | Dimmer and automated controls |
| EV Charger Circuit | $800 – $1,500 | Dedicated high-amp charging point |
| Air Conditioning Circuit | $400 – $800 | Heavy-duty wiring for AC units |
| Pool/Spa Electrical | $1,200 – $2,500 | Specialized outdoor wiring |
| Home Automation Wiring | $500 – $2,000 | Network and control cables |
Your house may require additional electrical work that wasn’t apparent during the initial inspection. Older homes often involve replacing more components than expected once walls are opened and the full extent of outdated wiring becomes visible. When rewiring might reveal structural issues or asbestos concerns, remediation costs can add thousands to your project budget.
Installing new power points beyond the minimum required number is a good idea to rewire with future needs in mind. Modern homes benefit from additional sockets in bedrooms, kitchens, and living areas where electrical demands continue growing. The cost will depend on how many extra circuits your house needs and whether existing cable routes can accommodate additional wiring.
Some homes require specialized electrical work that significantly affects the rewiring price. Properties in bushfire-prone areas need specific cable types and installation methods, while heritage homes might need custom solutions that preserve architectural features. These requirements can involve replacing standard approaches with more expensive alternatives that meet both safety standards and planning regulations.
Tips for Homeowners Planning a Rewire
Planning your rewiring project carefully can save thousands of dollars and ensure you get your house rewired to the highest standards. Smart homeowners understand that the cheapest quote isn’t always the best value, and taking time to research and plan your electrical work investment pays dividends in safety, compliance, and long-term reliability.
Consider the electrician’s experience, qualifications, and reputation when making your selection, as electrical work quality varies significantly between contractors. Here are essential tips every homeowner should follow when planning a house rewiring project:
β Get multiple quotes from licensed electricians – Comparing at least three detailed quotes helps you understand the rewiring costs and identify any unusually high or suspiciously low estimates. Ensure each electrician provides itemized breakdowns showing labour, materials, and any additional services required for your specific wiring system.
β Ask if switchboard upgrades are included – Many quotes exclude switchboard replacement costs, which can add $700-$1,000 to your total project cost. Clarify whether new circuit breakers, safety switches, and compliance upgrades are part of the base quote or charged separately.
β Schedule during renovations to reduce disruption – If you’re planning other home improvements, coordinate your rewiring project with renovation work to minimize disruption and potentially reduce costs. Rewiring during kitchen or bathroom renovations allows easier access to walls and reduces restoration expenses.
β Ensure you receive a compliance certificate after completion – Australian electrical standards require proper certification for all rewiring work. Your electrician must provide official documentation proving the electrical system meets current regulations, which is essential for insurance and resale purposes.
β Plan for temporary accommodation if needed – Depending on your house size and family situation, you may need alternative accommodation during the rewiring process. Budget for hotel stays or arrange to stay with family, especially if you have young children or work from home.
β Consider future electrical needs – Think about potential additions like electric vehicle charging, solar panels, or home automation systems when planning your rewiring project. Installing additional circuits during initial rewiring is far cheaper than adding them later through separate electrical work.
Key Insights for Your Rewiring Investment
Rewiring your home represents a significant investment that delivers essential safety improvements and long-term value for any homeowner. Understanding the complete picture of rewiring costs, timeframes, and requirements helps you make informed decisions about this crucial electrical upgrade that modern homes depend on.
The essential takeaways from this complete guide include:
- Budget $4,000 to $12,000 for a full house rewire in Australia, with the final cost determined by factors like house size, existing wiring condition, and regional labour rates. Remember that rewiring costs reflect the complexity and safety requirements of modern electrical systems.
- House size impacts the cost significantly – Smaller homes typically cost $4,000-$6,000 to rewire, while larger properties with more complex wiring systems may require $9,000-$12,000 or more for comprehensive electrical work.
- Labour represents the largest expense – Electrician rates of $75-$125 per hour mean labour costs account for most of your total rewiring investment, though material costs for power points, switchboards, and wiring add up quickly.
- Older homes often require more extensive work – Properties with wiring that’s 30 years old or more typically need complete electrical system replacement, and heritage homes may involve additional costs due to access challenges and specialized requirements.
- Always use a licensed electrician – Professional electrical work ensures compliance with Australian electrical standards and provides the compliance certificate required for insurance and legal purposes.
- Multiple quotes provide better value – Comparing detailed estimates from several qualified electricians helps you understand fair pricing and identify the best combination of quality, service, and cost for your rewiring project.
If you’re ready to explore rewiring options for your property, Calibre Connect‘s experienced electrical team can provide detailed assessments and competitive quotes tailored to your specific needs and budget. Call us today.