Amherst, N.H. – September 18, 2026 -- Homeowners weighing a home rewiring project should expect costs to swing widely based on square footage, wiring age, and accessibility, according to electrical contractor Thomas Reilly of TC. Reilly Electric LLC in Amherst, NH.
Reilly's insights, featured in a HelloNation article, focus on why rewiring decisions in Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts hinge on more than just budget -- they're often a safety necessity.
Square footage drives labor hours and total cost
Smaller homes with open attic and basement access typically require less labor. Larger properties demand more time to update outlets, fixtures, and circuits, and to safely remove or abandon old wiring while meeting code.
Homes built before the 1950s often contain outdated knob and tube wiring
These older systems, along with cloth-wrapped wiring, lack grounding and were never built for today's electrical loads from HVAC systems, computers, and smart home devices. Handling deteriorated older materials adds time and cost to the project.
Local permitting rules across the region shape project planning
Every community in Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts has its own permitting structure. Electricians must follow inspection procedures before closing walls or energizing circuits, reducing risks like overheating or improper grounding.
Tight attics and finished basements can raise labor costs
Homes with complex wall structures or limited access may require electricians to create careful pathways for new wiring, sometimes involving drywall or plaster removal and follow-up repair work. Open access points allow faster, cheaper completion.
Full rewiring projects often include an electrical panel upgrade
Older panels frequently lack the capacity to support new wiring and modern electrical demands. When a full home rewiring is planned, upgrading the panel becomes a necessary part of the total cost.
New wiring reduces fire risk and prepares homes for new technology
Rewiring adds grounding, increases capacity, and delivers more stable power, improving lighting consistency and outlet performance. It also readies homes for future additions like EV chargers, heat pumps, or smart home networks.
The article notes that rewiring doesn't always require extensive demolition -- electricians often route through attics, basements, and crawlspaces to limit disruption. Updated wiring can also make a home more appealing to buyers and simplify future inspections or sales.