House rewiring in Tampa
Wiring doesn't last forever. Knob-and-tube, cloth-insulated and early aluminum wiring can't safely carry what a modern household runs. A rewire replaces it with grounded copper circuits, usually without gutting the walls.
When rewiring makes sense
- Knob-and-tube or cloth-insulated wiring
- Aluminum branch wiring from the late 1960s or early 1970s
- Mostly two-prong, ungrounded outlets
- Insurance won't cover the home because of the wiring
- A major remodel is already opening walls
- Frequent tripping, warm outlets or flickering throughout
Options
Whole-house rewire
All branch circuits replaced with grounded copper, usually alongside a new panel.
Partial rewire
Replacing the worst circuits, such as kitchen and bath, when a full rewire isn't needed.
Aluminum wiring remediation
Copper pigtails with connectors rated for aluminum at every device and splice, as an alternative to a full rewire.
Grounding upgrades
Adding grounded circuits where you need three-prong outlets most.
How a rewire goes
- Plan the circuits. New circuits are laid out to modern code and your actual use.
- Fish the wire. Wire is run through the attic and down walls with small access openings.
- Replace devices. Every outlet, switch and fixture connection is replaced.
- Inspect and patch. The work is inspected, and access openings are patched as agreed in your quote.
What affects the price
- Square footage and number of circuits.
- Attic and crawlspace access.
- Whether the panel is replaced at the same time.
- Plaster versus drywall walls.
- Patching and the permit.
You get the price for your job before any work starts.
Older wiring in Tampa homes
Bungalows in Seminole Heights, Tampa Heights and Hyde Park can still have knob-and-tube or cloth wiring behind updated walls. Homes built from about 1965 to 1973 across Tampa Bay may have aluminum branch wiring, which loosens at connections and runs hot. Both are common reasons for an insurer to decline a home after a 4-point inspection.
Common questions
How do I know if I have aluminum wiring?
Look at the cable jacket in the attic or at the panel. Aluminum wiring is often marked AL, and the conductors are silver rather than copper colored.
Do I have to rewire, or can aluminum be fixed?
Remediation with approved copper pigtails at every connection is an accepted alternative to a full rewire, and many insurers accept it.
Do I need to move out during a rewire?
Usually not. Power is off in sections during the day and restored at night.
How long does a rewire take?
Most homes take a few days to a week, depending on size and access.
Related services
Areas we serve
Rewiring across Tampa and these nearby communities: