What Is the True Cost to Re-Wire a House?

At some point, homeowners with older residences may wonder about the cost to re-wire their house. The answer varies greatly. Bob Vila puts it in the range of $555 to $2,281, while Angi.com says re-wiring a home can cost anywhere from $1,500 to over $10,000. Homeguide.com states an average range of $2,000 to $9,000 with a price of roughly $2.65 per square foot. (BobVila.com estimates an even higher cost of $6 to $8 per square foot).

There are many factors that affect home re-wiring costs. This means each project will have its own unique cost value. But to help you understand the costs involved and plan ahead, we will cover some of the most influential factors and key expenses.

Calculating the Cost to Re-Wire a House

House Size/Age

The bigger your house, the more work that needs to be done. It will also need more outlets, as the number of outlets is determined by wall space, per the latest building codes. Square footage is a major determinant in the average cost. Here are some examples:

• 1,000 Square Feet: $2,000 to $4,000.
• 1,200 Square Feet: $1,900 to $4,500.
• 1,500 Square Feet: $2,300 to $5,600.
• 2,500 Square Feet: $3,900 to $9,400.
• 3,000 Square Feet: $6,000 to $12,000.

Another important factor is age. Replacing outdated wiring can be a challenge. For example, removing knob & tube wiring can cost $4,000 to $6,000 all on its own. And a permit to do so runs from $200 to $600. And if a re-wiring project involves opening the walls, the cost can skyrocket to up to $20,000.

Labor Costs

Electricians may charge anywhere from $50 to $100 per hour of work.² Depending on the contractor, the labor charge may be calculated per worker. So, the more technicians working on your re-wiring project, the higher the labor cost will be. A re-wiring project typically lasts several days. Generally, it takes about one hour of re-wiring work for every 100 square feet.

Permits/Inspections

The type of permit you need may vary depending on the scope of the project. A permit can run from $200 to $900. To get the work permitted, you’ll need an electrical inspection that can cost anywhere from $200 to $500. The inspection may be required before, during, and/or after the project is completed, depending on the authority.

Type of Room

Electrical code requirements vary from room to room. Bedrooms generally require fewer outlets and cost about $200 to $800 each to re-wire. But a kitchen, where outlets and high-power circuits for refrigerators, stoves, and other appliances are needed, can run anywhere from $1,900 to $3,000 to re-wire. Electricians must also install ground fault circuit interrupters in kitchens and bathrooms to protect against shocks and burns where water is present. The cost of bathroom re-wiring averages out to $1,000 to $2,000.

Equipment

The following is a breakdown of some equipment costs in relation to the cost of re-wiring a house:

• Electrical Service Panel: A 100-amp panel costs $850 to $1,100 to install, while a 200-amp panel runs from $1,300 to $1,600; expect to spend up to $2,500 if an entirely new electrical box is required.
• Outlets/Switches: Installing a circuit for one outlet/switch costs from $100 to $150. You might get a deal for having more outlets and switches installed, while code requirements generally require specific numbers of outlets per area.
• Copper Wire: For most circuits, copper wire cost on average $.30 to $0.66 per foot; for large appliances it’s $0.49 to $0.99 per foot. Expect to pay $0.83 to $1.83 per foot for wiring an electric range. Data communication cables run about $0.11 to $0.22 per foot on average.
• Dimmer Switches: There are different types of dimmer switches available today. A paddle type switch runs for about $28, while a smart light dimmer switch costs around $55.
• Light Fixtures: A 13-inch flush-mount fixture costs about $10, while a modern 3-light pendant can cost $190 on average. For a 16-light crystal chandelier, expect to pay on the order of $670 or more.
• Ceiling Fans: Installing a ceiling fan requires a professional. You’ll pay about $50 on average for a basic 52-inch ceiling fan and up to $300 for a 72-inch, 8-blade fan.

Wiring and cables come in different types, each with their own cost:

• Nonmetallic Cable: $0.40 to $0.80 per linear foot.
• Underground Feeder Cable: $0.50 to $0.75 per linear foot.
• THHN/THWN Wire: $0.80 to $1.60 per linear foot.
• Coaxial Cable: $0.25 to $0.35 per linear foot.
• Low Voltage Wire: $0.25 to $0.35 per linear foot.

In addition, you must factor in preparation and cleaning. Site cleanup can be complicated when there’s drywall, plaster, and excess materials to clean up. Debris removal is often included in the bid price, but not all contractors do this, so it’s important to ask in advance.

Contact Black Hills Inc. Home Services

When it comes to electrical re-wiring, DIY is not an option. There are regulations, safety concerns, and difficult materials, tools, and circumstances to consider. You need a professional and, at Black Hills Home Services, we offer high-quality materials, parts, and fixtures as well as a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Financing options are available. To get started and receive a quote on the cost to re-wire a house, with no hidden fees, request service online or call 888-704-6293. There are many factors that affect home re-wiring costs. This means each project will have its own unique cost value. But to help you understand the costs involved and plan ahead, we will cover some of the most influential factors and key expenses.