Rewiring Your Home During a Renovation: What You Need to Know

If you are planning a major home renovation, rewiring is a must. While new floors, fresh paint, and updated fixtures take centre stage, your home’s wiring is what keeps everything running safely and smoothly. If your property is older or you're adding new lighting, appliances, or extensions, it's crucial to consider electrical updates as part of your renovation plan.

This article walks you through everything you need to know about rewiring a home during renovation—from signs your wiring is outdated to smart wiring tips, electrical updates, and safety essentials. Learn when and why rewiring is necessary, and what to expect during the process.

Why Rewire During a Renovation?

Most homeowners focus on finishes and aesthetics during a renovation. But tackling the electrics now—before the walls are closed and the floors are laid—can save you time, money, and major hassle later. Some of the key reasons could be:

• Outdated or unsafe wiring (common in homes built pre-1980s)

• Insufficient outlets or overloaded circuits

• Frequent tripping fuses or flickering lights

• Switching from fuse boxes to modern consumer units

• Adding new lighting layouts, sockets, or smart systems

• Preparing for EV chargers or high-demand appliances

Signs Your Home Needs Rewiring

• Sockets or light switches that feel warm to the touch

• Fuses that blow frequently or breakers that trip often

• Burning smell near outlets or boards

• Surface-mounted wires or old rubber/cloth-sheathed wiring

• Lack of modern safety devices (RCDs, MCBs) in your fuse board

• Wiring that’s over 30–40 years old

If you’re experiencing any of these, get a qualified electrician to inspect your system before renovating further. If you need help inspecting your wiring system or even planning your renovation’s electrical layout, Painter Adam is the perfect choice for you. We consist of a team of qualified and expert electricians to ensure every part of your home upgrade—from lighting to sockets—is done right the first time. Contact us today and get a free quote instantly.

What Can You Expect While Rewiring Home & Home Renovation?

Rewiring a home isn’t just replacing old wires. It further involves:

• Replacing old circuits, sockets, and switches

• Electric updates such as upgrading the consumer unit (fuse box)

• Adding new power outlets

• Repositioning light switches or sockets

• Running wiring for lights, cookers, heating systems

• Optional extras: smart home wiring, speaker systems, alarm cables, or data cabling

Timeline: A full rewire typically takes 5–10 days, depending on the size and complexity of the home.

Wiring Tips for Home Renovation Success

1. Add More Sockets Than You Think

Aim for at least four double sockets in bedrooms and six to eight in living areas. Include sockets at higher levels for TVs or wall-mounted appliances.

2. Zone Your Lighting

Use separate circuits for ceiling lights, lamps, and accent lighting. Add 2-way switches in large rooms or stairwells for convenience. If you have knowledge on how to properly light the interior of your home, you could use this electrical update to your strength.

3. Install a Modern Consumer Unit

Upgrade to a board with RCDs (residual current devices) and MCBs (miniature circuit breakers). These offer improved protection against electric shock and fire.

4. Futureproof with Data & Smart Cabling

Consider Cat6 cables for internet and streaming devices. Pre-wire for smart lighting, thermostats, security cameras, or built-in speakers.

5. Use Metal Back Boxes in Plasterboard Walls

They’re sturdier and allow for future swaps and upgrades.

Electrical Safety & Regulations in Ireland

In Ireland, electrical work must be carried out by a registered contractor (RECI or Safe Electric approved).

• All rewiring must meet current ET101 wiring regulations.

• Post-rewire, you should receive a Certificate of Completion.

• Your insurer may require proof of rewiring to validate coverage.

Never attempt a DIY rewire—it's not only dangerous, it’s illegal unless you're a registered professional.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes during rewiring your home.

• Rewiring after you’ve plastered or painted—do it first!

• Underestimating how many sockets or lights you need

• Skipping outdoor wiring or security planning

• Not considering home automation or data cabling

• Hiring unregistered or unqualified electricians

  
  

Final Thought

Rewiring your electrical system during a home renovation may not be glamorous—but it's one of the smartest and safest investments you can make. It ensures your space is modern, functional, and ready for the future—whether that’s a new home office, a high-tech kitchen, or just hassle-free living for the next 30 years!