Electrical FAQs

Full house rewiring costs in NW London typically range from £3,500–£8,000 for a two-bedroom flat and £6,000–£18,000 for a three to four-bedroom house. Costs depend on the number of circuits, accessibility (period properties with solid walls cost more), and the extent of redecoration required afterwards. Get three quotes and ensure all work comes with an Electrical Installation Certificate.

You should consider upgrading if: you have an old fuse board with rewireable fuses (rather than modern RCDs and MCBs), your board has fewer than 10 circuits, there are no RCD (Residual Current Device) protections, you are adding circuits (EV charger, home extension), or your insurer requires it. Modern split-load consumer units cost £400–£800 installed and significantly improve electrical safety.

Any notifiable electrical work requires notification to Building Control and an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or Minor Works Certificate. Part P registered electricians can self-certify this work — always request your certificate on completion. Without it, you may have difficulty selling your property and your home insurance could be invalidated.

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) takes 3–6 hours for a typical NW London house depending on size and condition. Older properties with original wiring may take longer. Landlords must provide a valid EICR every 5 years (or on change of tenancy). Homeowners do not have a legal obligation but insurance often requires one.

EV chargers can be installed at most NW London properties with off-street parking. For properties with street parking only, consult your local council — Camden offers some kerbside charging solutions. All EV charger installations require a qualified electrician and must be registered with OLEV/OZEV. Grants of up to £350 are available under the EVHS scheme for eligible homeowners.

Some properties built or renovated in the 1960s–70s have aluminum wiring rather than copper. Aluminium wiring can be safe if properly installed and maintained, but it requires specialist connectors at junctions and sockets. It should be inspected by a qualified electrician — do not assume it is safe without an assessment. Most NW London Victorian and Edwardian properties will have copper wiring.

Installing new outdoor lighting is notifiable electrical work under Part P if it involves new circuits. A qualified electrician should carry out the work and issue a Minor Works Certificate. Replacing like-for-like outdoor light fittings on an existing circuit is generally not notifiable, though it is still best carried out by a qualified electrician for safety.