How Much Does House Rewiring Cost in London, Ontario?

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Thinking about rewiring your house in London, Ontario? It’s a significant investment, but one that can improve your home’s safety, efficiency, and value. Whether your home is older or experiencing electrical issues, rewiring is an essential upgrade that ensures your electrical system meets modern standards. But how much does it cost? Let’s break it down.

Breaking Down the Costs of House Rewiring – What You Need to Know

 

What Affects the Cost of House Rewiring?

The cost of house rewiring in London, Ontario, depends on several key factors that impact labor, materials, and overall project complexity.

Cost Breakdown: Labor, Materials, and Permits

Labor Costs

  • Electrician rates: $75–$150 per hour
  • Estimated labor time: 3–20 days, depending on house size and complexity

Materials Costs

  • Wiring and cables: $2,000–$8,000
  • Electrical panel upgrades: $1,500–$4,500
  • Outlets, switches, and fixtures: $100–$500 per unit

Permit and Inspection Costs

  • Electrical permits: $250–$1,000
  • Inspection fees: $200–$500

 

Factors That Influence House Rewiring Costs in London, Ontario

Factors That Influence House Rewiring Costs in London, Ontario

What Affects the Cost of House Rewiring?

Rewiring a house isn’t a one-size-fits-all job. Several factors impact the total cost, including the home’s size, accessibility, and whether additional electrical upgrades are needed.

  1. Size of the Home

 

The bigger the house, the more wiring is needed. And more wiring means more labor, which adds up fast. Here’s a rough estimate based on square footage:

  • Small home (under 1,000 sq. ft.)$6,000–$10,000
  • Medium home (1,000–2,000 sq. ft.)$10,000–$18,000
  • Large home (2,000+ sq. ft.)$18,000–$30,000
 
  1. Accessibility & Wall Structure

 

If your home has drywall, electricians can easily remove and replace sections for wiring. But if you have lathe-and-plaster walls (common in older homes), expect higher costs due to the extra labor involved. Similarly, if your home has a finished basement or tight attic spaces, running new wires could be more complex, increasing costs.

  1. Age of the Home

 

Older homes, particularly those built before the 1970s, often have outdated electrical systems such as knob-and-tube wiring or aluminum wiring. If your home still has these, expect additional costs for removal and upgrading to modern copper wiring. Ontario’s Electrical Safety Code (OESC) requires homes to meet specific safety standards, so compliance upgrades may be necessary.

  1. Electrical Panel Upgrade

 

Rewiring often goes hand in hand with upgrading your electrical panel. If your home still runs on a 60-amp panel, you’ll likely need an upgrade to 100 or 200 amps to handle modern electrical demands. Here’s what that might cost:

  • 100-amp panel upgrade$1,500–$2,500
  • 200-amp panel upgrade$2,500–$4,500
 
  1. Permit and Inspection Fees

 

In London, Ontario, rewiring requires electrical permits from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). Permits ensure the work is up to code and inspected for safety compliance. Costs typically range from $250 to $1,000, depending on the extent of the rewiring.

Average Cost of House Rewiring in London, Ontario 2024

Cost Per Square Foot

Responsive Table
Square Footage Average Cost (CAD)
1,200 sq. ft. $13,000

Note: The cost per square foot can vary depending on factors such as the age of the house, accessibility, and complexity of the electrical system.

Cost Breakdown for Different Home Sizes

Responsive Table
Home Size Square Footage Average Cost (CAD)
Small Home Under 1,000 sq. ft. $10,000 – $15,000
Medium Home 1,000 – 2,000 sq. ft. $15,000 – $20,000
Large Home Over 2,000 sq. ft. $20,000 – $30,000

These estimates are approximate and can vary based on specific circumstances, including the condition of the existing wiring, the need for opening walls, and labor costs.

Sources

https://advantageelectric.ca/how-much-does-it-cost-to-wire-a-new-house-what-you-can-expect-to-pay/

https://ontime-electric.ca/what-it-costs-to-wire-your-house/

https://expertelectric.ca/cost-update-electrical-wiring-old-house/

 

Hidden Expenses in House Rewiring You Shouldn’t Overlook

Additional CostDescriptionEstimated Cost (CAD)Local Source
Building Permit FeesRequired for major electrical work to ensure compliance with safety standards. Fees vary based on project scope and municipality regulations.VariesCity of London – Building Permits
Electrical Inspection FeesMandatory inspections by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) to certify that the rewiring meets Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards.Starting at $100ESA – Fees and Forms
Drywall and Plaster RepairsPost-rewiring repairs to walls and ceilings where access was needed for wiring installation. Costs depend on the extent of the work required.VariesNoradiation.ca – Electrical Wiring Cost
Upgrading Electrical PanelIf your current panel is outdated, upgrading to a higher capacity panel may be necessary to handle the new wiring system.$1,500 – $4,000Somerton Electric – Understanding the Hourly Rate of Electricians in London, Ontario
Additional Electrical OutletsInstalling extra outlets or switches to accommodate modern electrical needs can increase both material and labor costs.$150 – $250 per outletSomerton Electric – Understanding the Hourly Rate of Electricians in London, Ontario
Asbestos or Lead Paint RemovalIn older homes, the presence of hazardous materials like asbestos or lead paint may require professional removal before rewiring can proceed safely.VariesCity of London – Common Homeowner Projects
Temporary AccommodationDepending on the project’s scope, you might need to arrange temporary housing if the rewiring renders your home uninhabitable during the process.VariesAyvaun – Applying for a Renovation Permit in London Ontario

Please note that these costs are estimates and can vary based on specific project requirements and local regulations

How Long Does It Take to Rewire a House?

Let’s explore the factors that influence the timeline and provide a general overview to help you prepare for this essential home improvement project.

How Long Does It Take to Rewire a House London Ontario

Factors Influencing the Duration of a House Rewire

Several key factors can affect the time required to rewire a house:

  • Size of the Property: Larger homes naturally require more wiring and, consequently, more time to complete.
  • Complexity of the Electrical System: Older homes or those with intricate electrical layouts may present challenges that extend the project timeline.
  • Accessibility: Easy access to wiring through basements, attics, or crawl spaces can expedite the process, while limited access can cause delays.
  • Occupancy Status: An unoccupied home allows electricians to work more efficiently without the need to accommodate residents’ daily activities.

Estimated Timeframes Based on Home Size

While the exact duration can vary, here are general estimates for rewiring homes of different sizes:

  • Small Homes (1–2 bedrooms): Approximately 4–7 days.
  • Medium Homes (3–4 bedrooms): Around 6–10 days.
  • Large Homes (5+ bedrooms): Up to 2 weeks or more.

Warning Signs Your Home’s Electrical System Needs an Upgrade

Here are some key signs that indicate your home may need rewiring.

Home’s Electrical System london ontario

 

1. Circuit Breakers Keep Tripping

A circuit breaker tripping occasionally is normal—it’s designed to protect your home from electrical overload. But if your breakers trip frequently, it could mean your wiring is struggling to handle your home’s power demands.

🔹 What this means: Your circuits are overloaded or there’s a short in the wiring

2. Flickering or Dimming Lights

If your lights flicker when you plug in an appliance or turn on multiple devices, your electrical system might not be supplying consistent power.

🔹 What this means: Loose connections, overloaded circuits, or deteriorating wires may be affecting power distribution.
🔹 What to do: If flickering happens across multiple rooms or gets worse over time, rewiring could be the best long-term solution.

3. Burning Smells or Scorch Marks on Outlets

A burning smell with no obvious source? That’s a major red flag that shouldn’t be ignored.

🔹 What this means: Overheating wires behind walls could be melting insulation and increasing the risk of an electrical fire.
🔹 What to do: Turn off power to the affected area immediately and call a licensed electrician for an inspection.

🔥 Important: If you see scorch marks on outlets or switches, it’s time to rewire!

4. Buzzing, Crackling, or Humming Sounds

Electricity should be silent—if you hear buzzing or crackling behind walls, it could mean wires are loose or deteriorating.

🔹 What this means: Your wiring may be sparking or arcing, which increases the risk of fire.
🔹 What to do: This is a serious issue that requires an immediate electrical inspection.

5. Outlets or Light Switches Feel Warm to the Touch

Outlets and switches should never feel warm. If they do, you may have a problem with overloaded circuits or faulty wiring.

🔹 What this means: Heat buildup could lead to melted wires or electrical fires.
🔹 What to do: Stop using the outlet, unplug all devices, and call an electrician to inspect the wiring.

6. Old or Outdated Wiring (Knob-and-Tube or Aluminum Wiring)

If your home was built before the 1970s and still has its original wiring, you’re likely using an outdated electrical system that isn’t safe or efficient.

🔹 Knob-and-Tube Wiring: Found in homes built before the 1950s—not grounded and prone to overheating.
🔹 Aluminum Wiring: Common in homes from the 1960s and 70s—prone to loose connections and fire risks.

How to Save Money on House Rewiring Without Compromising Safety

How to Save Money on House Rewiring Without Compromising Safety

1. Plan Your Rewiring During Home Renovations

If you’re already renovating your home—whether updating the kitchen, remodeling a basement, or adding a new room—schedule rewiring alongside these projects.

Money-Saving Tip: Ask your contractor if they offer package deals for electrical work as part of your renovation project.

2. Get Multiple Quotes Before Hiring an Electrician

Rewiring costs can vary significantly between electricians. To get the best price, obtain at least three detailed quotes from licensed electricians in London, Ontario. When comparing quotes, don’t just look at the price—check for details on materials, labor, permits, and warranties to ensure you’re getting the best value.

Money-Saving Tip: Avoid choosing the cheapest option without verifying credentials.

3. Prioritize Essential Areas First

If your budget is tight, you don’t have to rewire your entire house at once. Start with the most critical areas, such as:

  • The kitchen, which has high-power appliances
  • Bathrooms, where outlets need to be GFCI-protected
  • The main living areas where you use the most electricity

4. Schedule Work During the Off-Season

Electricians tend to be busier (and more expensive) during peak renovation seasons, usually in the spring and summer. If possible, schedule your rewiring during the fall or winter, when demand is lower.

5. Check for Government Rebates or Incentives

Did you know that there are government programs that may help offset electrical upgrade costs? Home energy efficiency rebates, senior home renovation grants, and Ontario’s Green Energy programs sometimes provide financial assistance for homeowners upgrading outdated wiring.

Money-Saving Tip: Visit Ontario Energy Board or Show Me The Green to check for current rebates.

Final Decision: Should You Rewire Your Home?

If your home is showing multiple warning signs—frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, burning smells, or outdated wiring—don’t wait until it becomes a serious hazard. Faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of house fires, and delaying necessary upgrades can put your safety at risk.

Rewiring might seem like a big investment, but it protects your home, increases energy efficiency, and adds long-term value.

Take action now—your home, safety, and peace of mind depend on it.