How Much Does It Cost to Rewire a House? A 2025 Australian Guide

If you're living in an older home or planning renovations, you've probably wondered about the cost of rewiring. It's one of those essential but often overlooked home improvements that can make your property safer and more functional. But how much should you budget for this crucial upgrade?

What Does Rewiring Actually Cost in 2025?

For most Australian homeowners, rewiring costs typically range from $4,000 to $12,000 for an average-sized home. However, the final bill can swing from as low as $2,500 for smaller jobs to over $20,000 for larger or more complex properties.

Here's a quick breakdown by house size:

• 1-2 bedroom unit: $4,000 – $6,000
• 3-bedroom house: $6,500 – $9,000
• 4-bedroom home: $9,000 – $12,000
• Larger or multi-storey homes: $12,000 – $15,000+

What's Driving Your Rewiring Bill?

Several key factors will determine your final cost:

• House size and layout - Larger homes and complex floor plans require more materials and labour
• Age of your home - Older properties often have difficult-to-access wiring that takes longer to replace
• Accessibility - Easy access to wall cavities keeps costs down, while plaster removal and repair adds significantly
• Materials quality - Higher-grade fittings and additional power points increase the price
• Switchboard upgrades - Modern safety requirements often mean upgrading your switchboard too

What's Included in a Rewiring Job?

A full rewiring typically includes:

• Complete removal of old electrical cables throughout the house
• Installation of new cables, power outlets, switches and light fittings
• Testing and certification for safety compliance
• Sometimes includes basic wall patching (major plastering is usually extra)

Current Trends Affecting Rewiring Costs

Recent years have seen costs rise due to:

• Increased materials prices, especially for copper wiring
• Labor shortages in the electrical trades
• Stricter safety compliance requirements for older homes

Many electricians now offer staged rewiring options to help homeowners manage budgets more effectively.

Your Takeaway: Smart Planning for Rewiring

Rewiring your home is a significant investment, but it's essential for safety and modern living. The key is to get multiple quotes from licensed electricians who can assess your specific situation. Remember that while the upfront cost might seem high, proper electrical work protects your family and adds value to your property.

Always ensure your electrician provides a detailed quote that breaks down labour, materials, and any additional costs like wall repairs. And don't forget - this is one area where cutting corners can have serious consequences, so choose quality work over the cheapest price.