Old Electrics in our next possible house

[North]

Hi all,

We went to see a house yesterday which is just within our budget. There is some diy to do but we think we can manage to do almost all by ourselves. The only worry though is the electrics. The fuse box and the metter looks like comming from a Frankenstein movie. It must be an original feature from the house (circa 1930). It still works but I am wondering if there is a legal requirement to update the system in order to make it safer. I would rater keep it until we recover from the buying and that could take a few years (if we decide to purchase the house of course). How much should cost a replacement?
Thanks,
North

 

[1john]

It is best to get it rewired sooner than later, well before you decorate and have new flooring fitted. You may be able to negotiate the rewire cost from the asking price.

 

[North]

How much should that cost for a 4 bethroom detached house with a small kitchen and three reception rooms?

 

[1john]

Location will vary the price, sometimes quite dramatically! Call some local firms for a ball park figure is the best bet.

 

[crunchynut]

Find a spark who will do a quick visual check of the installation. Typically will cost around £60. It could prove a wise move as may help in negotiating a reduction with the vendors. This kind of report is very basic so bear that in mind. But it should pick up some possible dangers such as lack of earthing/bonding and maybe whether a rewire is advisable.

 

[Taylortwocities]

It is always, always easier and cheaper to get the place rewired when it is empty.

When you have an expensive electrician in your house you want him to be electricianing, not moving furniture around.

Also, rewiring usually means sockets and switches etc in new positions. that means chasing out of walls - you'll want to do that before you start redecorating the place...

 

[JohnD]

rewiring costs about as much as a used car.

 

[North]

Thanks folks, I got an idea now.
North