Does My New Home Need a Rewire?

Buying a new home is an exciting process, but it comes with its own set of worries — especially when it comes to the electrics. The last thing you want is to move into your dream home only to find out it needs a complete rewire! So, how can you spot the signs before you commit?

At MP Electrical in Rotherham, we’re passionate about helping homeowners with all aspects of their electrics, from the smallest of jobs to full rewires. Here’s our guide on what to look for when you’re viewing a home in South Yorkshire.

How Old Is the Property? 🏘️

The first thing to consider is the age of the property. If the house was built more than 25 years ago and hasn’t had its electrical system updated, it could be a red flag. Older homes may still have outdated wiring, which not only struggles to meet modern power demands but can also be a safety hazard.

Top Tip: Homes built before the 1980s might have aluminium wiring, which corrodes more easily than modern copper wiring, leading to electrical faults.

Look for an Old Fuse Box 🔌

Take a quick peek at the fuse box (consumer unit). A modern consumer unit will have RCDs (Residual Current Devices) or RCBOs, which protect against electrical faults by shutting off the power if something goes wrong.

If the property still has an old fuse board with ceramic fuses, it’s a clear sign that the electrics haven’t been updated in quite some time. Modern consumer units are much safer and essential for compliance with current regulations.

Visible Wiring – Warning Signs 🧯

When viewing your potential new home, keep an eye out for any visible wiring. Old or damaged wiring can be a clear indicator that the house might need a rewire. Look out for:

• Exposed wires: Wires hanging out of sockets or light fittings.
• Fabric-coated wiring: If you spot any old-fashioned fabric-coated wiring, it's a sure sign the system is outdated.
• Discolouration around sockets: This could indicate overheating and poor connections.

If you see any of these issues, it’s likely the electrical system hasn’t been updated for decades.

Lack of Sockets – A Subtle Clue 🕵️

A home that only has a few sockets in each room is a sign it hasn’t been wired to accommodate the electrical demands of modern life. Back in the day, two sockets per room were fine, but now, with our heavy reliance on gadgets, appliances, and technology, you’ll need more.

If the property lacks enough sockets, and you see extension cords running everywhere, it might be a sign that a rewire is needed.

Flickering Lights or Unusual Electrical Behaviour 💡

While you’re viewing the property, try turning on a few lights or plugging something in (with the homeowner’s permission, of course). If you notice flickering lights or the sockets feel warm to the touch, this can indicate overloaded circuits or faulty wiring.

These problems won’t fix themselves and are usually a sign that the electrical system is due for an upgrade.

Ask About the Property’s Electrical History 📜

Don’t be afraid to ask the homeowner or estate agent about the electrical system’s history. Have there been any updates to the wiring in recent years? Have they had an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) done? This report, carried out by a qualified electrician, provides a detailed assessment of the safety of the electrics.

If they don’t have one, it may be worth getting a professional to carry out an inspection before you move in.

Check for Modern Safety Features ✅

Safety is key when it comes to electrics. Modern homes should have the following safety features:

• RCD protection: Installed in the consumer unit.
• Earthing: Look for modern metal switches or light fittings. If these aren’t earthed, it’s unsafe.
• Adequate circuit breakers: For kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor circuits.

If these safety features are missing, a rewire might be necessary to bring the home up to modern standards.

Can I Live in the Property While It’s Being Rewired? 🛠️

If you do need a rewire, you might be wondering if you can still live in the property while the work is being done. The short answer is yes, but it’s worth noting that rewiring can be disruptive, as it involves lifting floorboards, cutting into walls, and making good after installation.

At MP Electrical, we always aim to minimise disruption and can work around your schedule to make the process as smooth as possible.

Conclusion: Don't Ignore the Signs! ⚡️

When buying a home, it’s important not to overlook the electrical system. Older homes might have beautiful character, but if the electrics are outdated, they could present safety risks and unexpected costs.

If you’re unsure about the condition of the electrics in your potential new home, MP Electrical can help. We offer full electrical inspections and rewiring services across South Yorkshire, ensuring your home is safe, compliant, and future-proof. And remember, we love the small jobs others avoid, so whether it’s a single socket or a full rewire, no job is too small for us!

Need a professional opinion? Contact MP Electrical today for advice or to schedule an electrical inspection. Message us or call our office on 01709 645115. We’re here to help!