Compare Electricians: How to Choose One for Rewiring 2026 (UK)
Hiring the right electrician for a rewire in 2026 comes down to three checks: Part P registration, matched written quotes, and references for recent rewire work. Only use electricians registered with NICEIC, NAPIT or ELECSA so the job can be self-certified to Building Control. Get three quotes on the same scope, confirm the new consumer unit and EICR are included, and ask for two recent references before signing.
Why electrician choice matters more than price for a rewire
A house rewire is notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations. If the electrician is not registered with a competent-person scheme — NICEIC, NAPIT or ELECSA — you must notify Building Control yourself and pay a separate inspection fee. A registered electrician self-certifies and issues the Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC), which is essential when you sell or remortgage.
What to check before you compare quotes
1. Competent-person scheme registration
Search NICEIC, NAPIT or ELECSA online registers using the trader name. The badge alone is not proof — confirm the listing is current.
2. Public liability insurance
Ask for proof of at least £2 million cover — standard on every reputable rewire job.
3. Recent rewire experience
A bathroom-fitter electrician is not the same as a rewire specialist. Ask how many full rewires they have completed in the last 12 months.
What a good rewire quote includes
A complete rewire quote should list: new consumer unit (RCBOs preferred), replacement of all socket and lighting circuits, smoke and CO alarms wired to mains, full EICR test certificate on completion, building notification, and a schedule of making-good (plastering and redecoration). If any of these are missing, ask why.
How to compare three quotes fairly
Send all three electricians the same written scope: property type, number of bedrooms, number of sockets per room, whether floors and walls can be lifted, and whether you want USB sockets or smart switches. Quotes that vary by more than 20% usually differ on scope, not skill.
FAQs
Related guides
Get 3 Free Quotes — Vetted UK Electricians
BestBuilders matches you with up to 3 Part P-registered electricians. Compare quotes — no cost, no obligation.