Home Renovation Electrical Wiring: What Homeowners Need to Know
If you're planning a home renovation, electrical wiring might not be the first thing on your list, but it's one of the most critical.
Outdated or damaged wiring can pose serious safety risks and limit your ability to modernize your space.
Whether remodeling a kitchen, adding a new room, or upgrading an older home, understanding electrical wiring basics is key to a safe and efficient renovation.
When Should You Upgrade Your Electrical Wiring?
Several signs indicate it might be time to upgrade your home's electrical system. If your home still has knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, it's likely outdated and potentially hazardous.
Frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, or warm outlets are all red flags. Older homes, especially those built before the 1980s, often cannot handle modern electrical demands.
Home renovations are a common trigger for electrical upgrades. Adding new appliances, lighting, or rooms usually requires more power and updated wiring.
Code compliance and insurance requirements may also necessitate changes, especially during significant remodels.
Common Electrical Upgrades During Renovations
Modern renovations often include several electrical upgrades:
Upgrading the electrical panel to a 200-amp service
Installing GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) and AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets
Adding additional outlets and USB charging ports
Installing energy-efficient or recessed lighting
Adding dedicated circuits for high-power appliances or workstations
Running wiring for smart home systems or future tech needs
What's Involved in Rewiring a Home?
Rewiring typically starts with an inspection to assess the current system. After creating a wiring plan based on the renovation scope, electricians open walls to remove or bypass old wiring and run new wires to outlets, switches, and fixtures.
If necessary, the electrical panel is replaced to accommodate increased demand.
The process requires permits and inspections to ensure compliance with local building codes. Once the wiring is complete, walls are patched, and a final inspection ensures everything is functioning safely.
Cost to Rewire a Home During Renovation
Rewiring costs vary widely based on the home's size, layout, and renovation details.
On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $4 and $10 per square foot.
A small project, like rewiring a bathroom, will cost significantly less than a full-home upgrade.
Factors influencing cost include:
Home square footage
Accessibility of walls (open vs. finished)
Age and complexity of existing wiring
Number and type of fixtures or outlets
Bundling electrical work with other renovation tasks can save time and money.
Permits and Code Compliance
Most electrical work during a renovation requires permits, especially when adding circuits or upgrading the service panel.
Compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes is essential to pass inspections and avoid fines.
Hiring licensed electricians ensures the work is safe, legal, and up to code.
Electrical Renovation Checklist
Schedule an electrical inspection
Finalize your renovation layout
Get a written estimate from a licensed electrician
Apply for permits if needed
Coordinate with other trades (plumbing, framing, drywall)
Test and inspect after installation
DIY vs. Professional Electrical Work
While simple tasks like changing outlet covers or installing a light fixture may be safe for DIY, most electrical work should be left to professionals.
Mistakes can result in fire hazards, failed inspections, or insurance issues. Licensed electricians have the training to do the job safely and efficiently.
Why Electrical Wiring Is a Smart Investment in Any Remodel
Electrical upgrades during a renovation aren't just about code compliance.
They improve home safety, increase energy efficiency, and support modern technology.
Upgrading your wiring is also a strong selling point if you plan to move.
How Levatto Construction Can Help
Levatto Construction provides licensed electrical services as part of our full-scale home renovation offerings.
Whether you're remodeling your kitchen, upgrading a bathroom, or converting a garage into an ADU, our team can help you plan and execute the electrical work needed for a safe, modern space.
We serve residential and commercial clients within a 20-mile radius of Redlands, CA.
Ready to Renovate? Let's Talk Electrical
If you're planning a home renovation and may need electrical upgrades, contact Levatto Construction today for a consultation and quote.
