Buying your first home is exciting. It also comes with a long list of things you may not have had to think about before. One of the biggest and most commonly overlooked is the electrics.
You don’t need to be an electrician to make smart decisions about wiring. You just need to know what to ask. Whether you’re halfway through the buying process or just starting to view properties, this guide gives you seven essential rewire questions every first-time buyer should ask. No question is silly when it comes to safety, value, and peace of mind.
1. How Old Is the Wiring?
Most electrical wiring has a safe lifespan of around 25 to 30 years. If the seller doesn’t know how old it is, that’s a sign to proceed with caution.
There are some visual clues that can help you spot older wiring:
- Black or fabric-covered cables
- Sockets mounted on skirting boards
- An outdated fuse box (more on this in the next section)
Even if everything looks fine on the surface, older wiring may not meet modern safety standards or be suitable for today’s electrical needs. This is especially important in homes built before the 1990s.
2. Has the Property Had a Recent Electrical Safety Inspection?
Ask for a copy of the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). This official report outlines whether the electrical installation is safe or needs work. It should be less than five years old.
If there is no valid EICR, it is reasonable to request one before exchanging contracts.
Look out for:
- An “Unsatisfactory” result that highlights urgent issues
- The chance to use the results to negotiate the price
We’ve had buyers approach us with an EICR that revealed serious faults. They were able to negotiate £5,000 to £10,000 off the purchase price based on those findings.
3. Is the Consumer Unit (Fuse Box) Up to Date?
A modern consumer unit is a good sign that some electrical work has already been carried out. Look for RCDs or RCBOs. These are safety devices that protect against electric shock.
If you see:
- Rewireable fuses with fuse wire
- Wooden mounting boards
- A box that looks like it belongs in a different era
…then an upgrade is likely required. Even without a full rewire, replacing the consumer unit alone can cost between £500 and £900.
4. Are There Enough Sockets (and in the Right Places)?
Older homes weren’t designed for the number of appliances we use today. It is common to find only one or two sockets per room, often placed awkwardly.
Think about:
- Whether sockets are placed where you’d naturally need them, like near beds, desks or your TV area
- Whether the home includes USB sockets, garden supply points, or kitchen appliance outlets
- Whether you would end up relying on extension leads
If you are planning a rewire, it is the perfect opportunity to plan your socket layout properly and include extra features for future needs.
5. Are There Any Visible Signs of Trouble?
There are warning signs you can often spot with a quick walkthrough. These include:
- Burn marks around switches or sockets
- Buzzing sounds or flickering lights
- Circuits that frequently trip
- DIY fixes like taped joints or exposed surface-mounted cables
These issues don’t always mean a full rewire is required. However, they are strong indicators that the system needs a proper inspection.
6. How Much Would a Rewire Cost (If Needed)?
Rewiring costs depend on factors such as property size, access, and the current condition of the system. For a rough idea, check out our 3-bed rewire cost guide.
We always advise first-time buyers to get a quote from a trusted local electrician before completing their purchase. That way, you can budget accurately and use the information to support your negotiations if needed.
7. Can I Rewire in Stages or Just Do Part of It?
In some situations, yes. You may be able to:
- Replace the consumer unit
- Upgrade a specific ring circuit, such as the kitchen
- Tackle the areas that need urgent attention
However, a full rewire is often more cost-effective over time. It is usually faster, cleaner, and avoids the need for repeat work. If you are already planning renovations such as knocking through walls or replacing flooring, that is the best time to carry out a full rewire.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Your Electrician
As Liam from Ready to Rewire says:
“We’ve had buyers bring us in before they commit to a house, and it’s saved them thousands. A quick look can reveal a lot.”
You are not expected to know everything about home electrics. That’s what we are here for.
Summary: Ask Now, Save Later
Buying your first home is a big moment. Asking these seven questions helps you avoid unexpected costs, make safer choices, and feel more confident throughout the process.
If you want peace of mind, we offer fast, friendly inspections for buyers before they commit. Get in touch with Ready to Rewire for honest advice and reliable support.
