How Much Does It Cost to Rewire a House in Kerry?
You've noticed flickering lights. Old sockets that don't work properly. Maybe your insurance company mentioned your wiring during the last survey. Now you're wondering: how much is this actually going to cost?
Here's the truth: rewiring a house in Kerry isn't cheap. But neither is a house fire, failed insurance claims, or getting stuck with a dangerous bodge job that needs redoing six months later.
Quick Answer
A full house rewire in Kerry typically costs between €8,500 - €11,500 for a standard 3-bedroom home (80-90m²), depending on size, accessibility, and specifications.
Read on to understand the detailed breakdown and why cheaper quotes might cost you more in the long run.
Why Old Wiring Is Dangerous (And Expensive)
If your house was wired before 2000, there's a good chance it doesn't meet current safety standards. Here's what that means for you:
Real Risks of Old Wiring:
- • House fires: Faulty wiring causes 1 in 4 house fires in Ireland
- • Insurance issues: Many insurers won't cover homes with outdated wiring
- • Electric shocks: Old systems lack modern safety features like RCDs
- • Failed house sales: Buyers walk away when surveys flag electrical issues
I've seen homeowners ignore these warnings, thinking they'll "get away with it for a few more years." Then their insurance refuses to renew. Or worse, an electrical fire starts in the walls at 3am.
Worried About Your Wiring?
Get a free, no-obligation safety assessment from a RECI certified electrician.
What Does a Full Rewire Actually Include?
A professional house rewire isn't just "replacing some wires." Here's exactly what's included in a proper RECI-certified rewire (based on a typical 80m² 2-storey house):
Complete Cable Replacement
Every cable in your house replaced with modern wiring to current Irish standards (IS 10101). All circuits properly labelled and tested. Safe removal of old, redundant wiring.
New Consumer Unit (Fuse Board)
Complete consumer unit upgrade with RCBO/RCD protection for maximum safety. Full compliance with current regulations.
All Sockets & Switches Throughout
Complete installation of new sockets and switches in every room. Typical 3-bed includes: living room (4 sockets), kitchen (13 electrical points), bedrooms (2 sockets each), plus lighting switches.
Earthing System & Bonding
Installation of new earth rod (typically 11m from property). Main bonding to all services including hot water cylinder. Critical for safety and insurance compliance.
Shower & Immersion Circuits
Dedicated electrical circuit for electric shower (shower unit itself not included). Hot water cylinder wiring with new immersion timer. Proper bonding of cylinder.
Access Works Included
Partial ceiling demolition where required for cable routing. Basic making good of access points included (note: final plaster finish requires separate plasterer).
Testing & RECI Certification
Full testing of entire installation. Official RECI completion certificate issued - essential for insurance validity and house sales.
What's NOT Included in Standard Rewire Price:
- • Decorative light fittings: Basic batten holders provided only. If you want pendant lights, chandeliers, etc., these are extra.
- • Plastering & painting: Making good walls/ceilings after electrical work requires a separate plasterer (budget €2,000-4,000).
- • Shower unit: Electrical connection provided, but shower unit itself not supplied/installed.
- • Upgrades: USB sockets, smart home wiring, designer sockets - these can be added for additional cost.
Rewiring Costs in Kerry: What to Expect
Here's the honest breakdown. These are real prices from actual jobs in Kerry, not internet estimates.
Typical Rewiring Costs (2026):
Example Breakdown (80m² 2-Storey House):
*This is a real quote for a recent project. Your actual cost may vary based on property specifics.
What Affects the Price?
House Size & Complexity
More rooms = more circuits, more sockets, more work. Period homes with solid walls cost more than modern builds with cavity walls.
Accessibility
Can we lift floorboards easily? Is there attic access? Difficult access means more labor hours.
Plastering & Decoration
Rewiring requires chasing walls and ceiling access. Plastering/making good is NOT included in electrical quotes. Budget €2,000-4,000 extra for a professional plasterer to repair walls and ceilings after the rewire.
Specification
Basic white sockets or designer chrome? USB sockets? Smart home wiring? Your choices affect the final price.
Red Flags: When a Quote Is Too Cheap
If someone quotes you €5,000 or less for a full 3-bed rewire, they're either:
- • Not doing a proper job (cutting corners on materials or work)
- • Not RECI registered (your insurance won't be valid)
- • Planning to add "extras" halfway through (final bill will be double)
- • Won't provide proper certification
- • Using substandard materials that won't last
A proper rewire with quality materials, RECI certification, and professional labour costs €8,500-€11,500 for a standard 3-bed. I've rewired dozens of houses after "cheap" electricians. The homeowner always pays twice.
Why RECI Certification Matters
In Ireland, all electrical work must be done by a RECI registered electrician. Here's why this isn't just bureaucracy:
- Insurance validity: Most home insurance policies require RECI certification. No cert = no payout if there's a fire.
- Legal compliance: Non-compliant electrical work can void your house sale or rental agreements.
- Safety standards: RECI electricians are qualified, insured, and follow strict safety regulations.
- Resale value: Buyers' solicitors will ask for electrical certs. No certs = difficult sale or price reduction.
Ready to Get Your House Rewired Properly?
I've been rewiring houses across Kerry for 15+ years. Every job gets the same treatment: proper materials, RECI compliance, and work I'd be happy to have in my own home.
Get a Free, Honest Quote
I'll visit your property, assess the work needed, and give you a detailed quote with no hidden extras. No obligation, no pressure.
What You Get:
- ✓ Free site survey at a time that suits you
- ✓ Detailed written quote breaking down all costs
- ✓ Honest advice on what you actually need
- ✓ Timeline and process explanation
- ✓ RECI certification included in price
Serving Tralee, Killarney, Castleisland and all County Kerry • Available 7 Days
Common Questions About House Rewiring
How long does a rewire take?
Typically 7-10 working days for a standard 80m² 2-storey house (about 3-bed size). The exact timeline depends on house size and complexity. You can usually live in the house during the work, though you'll be without power for periods.
Do I need to move out during rewiring?
Not usually. Most people stay in their homes. We work room by room so you always have some power. It's dusty and disruptive, but manageable for most families.
Will you make good the walls after?
Electricians chase the walls and install cables. You'll need a plasterer to make good the walls afterwards - I can recommend trusted tradesmen if needed. Budget €2,000-4,000 for plastering depending on extent of works.
Can I get a grant for rewiring?
There are no direct grants for rewiring. However, if you're doing energy efficiency upgrades (heat pumps, solar panels), rewiring might be included as part of a larger SEAI grant application.
What's the difference between a partial and full rewire?
A full rewire replaces every cable. A partial rewire might upgrade specific circuits (kitchen, bathroom) while leaving others. I always recommend full rewiring for houses pre-2000 - partial jobs can leave hidden dangers.
About Patrick Scannell
RECI registered electrician with 15+ years experience serving Tralee and County Kerry. Specialising in domestic rewiring, commercial electrical installations, and emergency electrical repairs.
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