If you live in or have purchased a charming older home, you’re likely balancing its character with the need for modern functionality and safety. One of the most critical—yet hidden—considerations is the state of the electrical wiring.
The question “Is it worth rewiring an old house?” isn’t just about cost; it’s about safety, functionality, and protecting your investment. In almost all cases, the answer is a resounding yes.
Here’s a breakdown of why rewiring is a smart decision for most old Australian homes.
The Dangers of Old Wiring: More Than Just an Inconvenience
Many older homes, particularly those built before the 1980s, contain wiring systems that are simply not up to the task of powering a modern household and can be downright dangerous.
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Fire Hazard: Old wiring, especially rubber-insulated cables or VIR (Vulcanised Indian Rubber), degrades over time. The insulation becomes brittle and cracks, exposing live wires that can short-circuit and spark a fire inside your walls.
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Lack of Safety Switches (RCDs): Older switchboards use fuse wire instead of modern circuit breakers and often lack Residual Current Devices (RCDs). An RCD is a lifesaving device that cuts power in a fraction of a second if it detects a fault, preventing electrocution. They have been mandatory in new installations for decades.
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Insufficient Power Points: Older homes were built before the proliferation of computers, large-screen TVs, and kitchen appliances. This leads to overloading power points with dangerous double adaptors and power boards.
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No Earthing: Very old systems (pre-1960s) may have inadequate or no earthing (grounding), which is a critical safety feature that directs fault current safely away.
Key Signs Your Old House Needs Rewiring
How do you know if you need a rewire? Look for these warning signs:
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Frequent blown fuses or tripping circuits.
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A lingering smoky or burning smell near power points or appliances.
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Flickering or dimming lights when you turn on another appliance.
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Discoloured, hot, or sparking power points or switches.
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An old ceramic fuse box with re-wireable fuses.
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Using a lot of power boards and extension cords to compensate for a lack of outlets.
The Benefits of Rewiring: Why It’s Worth the Investment
While rewiring is a significant project, the benefits far outweigh the initial cost and disruption.
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Peace of Mind & Safety: This is the number one benefit. A full rewire eliminates the hidden fire and electrocution risks, protecting your family and your property.
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Increased Property Value: A recently rewired house is a major selling point. It provides potential buyers with confidence and can make your property more attractive and valuable compared to others with unknown electrical systems.
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Modern Functionality: A rewire allows you to add all the power points you need, exactly where you need them. You can also install modern features like:
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USB power points in kitchens and bedrooms.
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Data cabling for superior internet connectivity.
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Smart home systems for lighting, security, and climate control.
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Insurance Validity: Many insurance companies may refuse to pay out a claim for an electrical fire if the wiring was not up to current Australian Standards (AS/NZS 3000). A rewire ensures you are fully covered.
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Support for Modern Appliances: A new electrical system can handle the load of air conditioners, powerful ovens, and electric vehicle (EV) chargers without breaking a sweat.
What Does It Cost to Rewire a House in Australia?
The cost of a full rewire depends on the size of the house, the complexity of the job, and the accessibility of wall cavities.
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Average 3-Bedroom Home: A full rewire typically costs between $8,000 and $15,000 + GST.
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Larger or More Complex Homes: Can range from $15,000 to $25,000+ + GST.
While this is a substantial investment, it is crucial to view it as a critical safety upgrade and a long-term investment in your property’s value and functionality.
The Verdict: Is It Worth It?
Yes, rewiring an old house is almost always worth it.
The combination of eliminating severe safety risks, increasing your home’s value, and bringing its functionality into the 21st century makes it one of the most important investments you can make in an older property.
The short-term disruption is outweighed by the long-term benefits of knowing your home is safe, efficient, and ready for the future.
Thinking About a Rewire? Don’t Guess on Safety.
If your home is over 30 years old and showing any warning signs, the next step is a professional assessment. Our licensed electricians specialise in diagnosing the wiring in older homes and providing transparent, fixed-price quotes for a full rewire.
Contact us today to book a safety inspection. We’ll give you honest advice and a clear path to making your beautiful old home safe and modern for years to come.