A kitchen rewire isn’t something that should be taken on lightly and before you make any commitments you’d be wise to have a Periodic Inspection Report carried out that will highlight any problem areas to you. The results may mean that you can upgrade your sockets and switches, or install a new fuse board, rather than a need for a complete rewire.
How often should a kitchen be rewired? Read on to find out more...
How long does wiring last?
A house rewire should last for around 20 years and sometimes as long as 40 years, but eventually, the cable insulation will begin to break down and the need for a rewire will become apparent.
Many older properties have materials that aren’t suitable for today’s needs such as lead cabling, so if your electrics are over 20 years old it’s probably time to call in the experts.
Reasons for a kitchen rewire
If you’re planning to extend your home or convert an attic or a garage this will constitute new work and all wiring will have to be improved. This ensures it can carry additional loads and is earthed to current requirements.
Old round switches, rubber or fabric cabling, and sockets fixed to the skirting boards are all signs that a rewire is necessary. Old fuse boxes with wooden backs and a mixed selection of fuses are also tell-tale signs.
You’ll probably notice when the condition of your sockets and switches start to deteriorate. This may be combined with fuses blowing, buzzing noises, and lights not working properly. As faulty electrics can be a serious fire hazard and lead to electrocution you need to act.
Rewiring a kitchen
If you’re going to attempt the rewiring work yourself you’ll need to be proficient with the National Electrical Code. You’ll have to apply for a wiring permit by making a Building Regulation application online or in-person which will list all of the materials you’ll be using and detailing how they’ll be installed. At this time you’ll also make arrangements to have the required inspections carried out on your work by a qualified electrician.
After you’ve mounted all the electrical device boxes and run the new wiring you’ll have your first inspection. Then the finish inspection will be performed after you’ve installed the receptacles, lighting fixtures, and circuit breakers.
Bear in mind there is a risk with doing the work yourself both from a safety and a financial perspective. It’s often the best solution to rely on professionals to undertake the work for you.
Need electrical contractors in Farnborough?
Rewiring kitchen experts will typically carry out your kitchen rewiring in two stages. Firstly cables and wiring are installed and then everything is made live when the front faces of sockets, switches, and lights are fitted.
You’ll be able to have your appliances rewired in their current location or get advice on where best to move them too. You can also have new appliances assigned to their own outlet. Additional sockets can also be positioned where you’ll find them to be most handy.
A kitchen rewire may take two days to complete and the average hourly price for your electrician is between £40 and £60. Some electricians prefer to set a daily rate of between £200 and £250. These prices may vary according to the size of your kitchen, the number of appliances and sockets, and whether you want additional features such as lighting and ceiling fans.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is essential to any rewiring job and your qualified electrician will carry this out stating that the job has been completed and has passed all legal requirements.