Updating the electrical wiring in an old house is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your property, reduce the risk of electrical fires, and ensure your system can handle the demands of modern living. While it might seem like a big investment, the cost to update electrical wiring is often far less than the potential cost of repairs from outdated or faulty wiring.
At Expert Electric, we’ve helped countless homeowners across BC modernize their electrical systems safely and efficiently. Whether you’re looking at a complete wiring replacement or just certain upgrades, knowing the costs, factors, and benefits will help you make an informed decision.
Cost to Update Electrical Wiring: What You Should Expect
The cost of updating electrical wiring in an old house can range widely depending on multiple factors. In 2025, homeowners can generally expect to pay anywhere between $8,000 and $20,000 for a full rewire, although smaller projects may cost less. While this can be a significant investment, it’s critical for safety and functionality, especially in older homes that may still have outdated knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring.
Why Updating Electrical Wiring is Important
- Fire prevention – Old wiring can fray, overheat, or short-circuit, increasing the risk of electrical fires.
- Modern appliance support – New wiring supports the higher energy demands of modern electronics and appliances.
- Code compliance – Updated wiring ensures your home meets BC’s latest electrical safety codes.
- Property value – Homes with updated wiring are more appealing to buyers and may fetch higher resale prices.
Factors Affecting the Cost to Update Electrical Wiring
Home Size and Layout
The square footage of your home directly impacts how much wiring, labor, and materials are needed. Larger homes may require:
- More outlets and switches
- Additional circuits
- Complex routing through multiple floors and walls
For example, rewiring a 1,200-square-foot bungalow may cost closer to $8,000, while a 3,000-square-foot home could exceed $18,000 due to the increased labor and materials.
Accessibility of Wiring
How easily an electrician can reach your wiring has a big influence on the price. If your home has unfinished basements or attics, rewiring will be less invasive and cheaper. However, finished walls, tight crawlspaces, and complex layouts require more time and labor.
Common methods include:
- Full wall removal – Fast but invasive and costly.
- Fishing wires – Minimal wall cuts; more time-consuming but cost-effective.
- Basement or attic access – Ideal for keeping labor costs down.
Condition and Type of Existing Wiring
Older homes may have:
- Knob-and-tube wiring
- Aluminum wiring
- Brittle, frayed insulation
Removing hazardous wiring adds to labor time and disposal costs.
Material Quality and Upgrades
Using high-quality, durable wiring and components ensures your system lasts for decades. Many homeowners choose to upgrade at the same time by adding:
- USB outlets
- Smart home integrations
- Additional lighting circuits
- EV charger-ready circuits
These upgrades can slightly increase costs but add long-term convenience and value.
Electrician Expertise and Location
Hiring a qualified, licensed electrician in BC is essential. Rates vary depending on experience, but choosing a reputable professional, like Expert Electric, ensures the job is done safely, efficiently, and to code.
Typical Price Ranges for Electrical Wiring Upgrades
| Home Size | Estimated Cost Range |
| Small home (up to 1,500 sq. ft.) | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Medium home (1,500 – 2,500 sq. ft.) | $12,000 – $16,000 |
| Large home (2,500+ sq. ft.) | $16,000 – $20,000+ |
Note: Prices may vary based on home condition, accessibility, and upgrade choices.
Signs You Need to Replace Old Wiring
- Frequent breaker trips or blown fuses
- Flickering lights
- Buzzing sounds from outlets or switches
- Outlets that feel warm to the touch
- Lack of grounded (three-prong) outlets
If you notice these signs, schedule an inspection immediately.
How to Save on the Cost to Update Electrical Wiring
- Schedule during off-peak seasons for electricians
- Combine rewiring with other renovations to reduce drywall repair costs
- Prioritize the most critical upgrades first
- Work with a trusted electrician who offers detailed, transparent quotes
FAQs
How long does it take to rewire an old house?
A complete rewire can take anywhere from 5 days to 3 weeks, depending on home size, accessibility, and complexity.
Can I rewire my home without removing all the walls?
Yes. Experienced electricians can use wire-fishing techniques to minimize wall damage.
Does homeowner’s insurance cover the cost to update electrical wiring?
In most cases, no. However, some insurers may offer reduced premiums after you upgrade outdated wiring.
Final Thought
Updating old wiring is an investment in your home’s safety, efficiency, and value. While the cost to update electrical wiring can vary, it’s a far better alternative than risking damage or injury due to outdated systems. At Expert Electric, we pride ourselves on delivering professional, efficient, and reliable rewiring services tailored to each homeowner’s needs.
Contact Expert Electric
- Phone: 604-681-8338
- Email: info@expertelectric.ca
