Does my house need re-wiring?

DavidA

Just bought a new house. It didn't occur to me to check the wiring. How could I tell whether it needs to be done?

tony6403

Only one way , get it checked by a qualified electrician.

baldelectrician

have a periodic electrical inspection report done

You should use a competent person for the work, links below
In Scotland:
Individuals registered;
http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/register/ListAC.asp
Companies
http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/register/SearchRegCo.asp?T=Construction
In England and Wales:
http://www.competentperson.co.uk

iamcornholio

If you have got modern PVC (Grey) cable from about early 70's onwards, then most likely no.

Sockets, switches and fittings probably will though after 20 or so years

Owain_Moneysaver

Post a photo of your service intake / meter / consumer unit

How old is the house?

Did the surveyor make any observations about the wiring? They usually say something, even on a basic survey.

shell820810

iamcornholio wrote: »

If you have got modern PVC (Grey) cable from about early 70's onwards, then most likely no.

Sockets, switches and fittings probably will though after 20 or so years

Apparently houses should get a total rewire every 10 years. (hubby is a spark)

Scrap that actually - think it should only be tested every 10 years

http://www.homebuilding.co.uk/feature/wiring-explained

00ec25

DavidA wrote: »

Just bought a new house. It didn't occur to me to check the wiring. How could I tell whether it needs to be done?

what is your attitude to risk?
my father bought his house new build in 1964, it has never been rewired, everything still works and he couldn't care less about electricians saying it needs rewiring - ie they will tell you anything which scares you into spending money with them

get it inspected (periodic inspoection report as stated) and then take your pick of the very high quotes for the "vital" work

Alter_ego

shell820810 wrote: »

Apparently houses should get a total rewire every 10 years. (hubby is a spark)

No surprise there then.

27col

I'm sure that a lecky would think that a rewire every 10 years is a good idea. But I can't think why they would think that. Mmmm, come to think of it now, I can.

diable

If you have bought a new house then it doesn't need a rewire as it must have been done in the last 3 months........

luap2411

Hi, Assuming the house is new to you rather than brand new it's worth getting a periodic inspection done. Firstly it is peace of mind. Secondly there is plenty of unskilled bodgery out there. Thirdly there may be some beneficial minor upgrading an electrician would suggest that would enhance your safety.

I would look out for a Part P approved, either ECA or NICEIC registered contractor to do the work.