Introduction
Rewiring a flat is an essential upgrade that improves safety, efficiency, and compliance with modern electrical standards. If you’re planning this type of electrical work, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is how long the process will take. Knowing the timeframe involved allows you to prepare for temporary disruption, coordinate with other trades, and manage your project schedule with confidence.
At Weka Electrical, we’ve completed rewiring projects for flats and apartments of all sizes across Wellington. From small studio units to multi-bedroom penthouses, every property presents its own challenges. The time it takes to rewire a flat depends on several factors, including the flat’s size, access to wiring routes, the condition of the existing system, and whether a switchboard upgrade is included in the scope. Flats also introduce additional complexities, such as working within shared buildings, coordinating with building managers, and complying with body corporate rules.
Understanding the process and what influences the duration of electrical work is key to setting realistic expectations. Some flats can be rewired in as little as two or three days, while larger or older properties may require a full week or longer. The more you know about the variables involved, the easier it is to plan around the work, whether you’re an owner-occupier, a landlord, or a property manager responsible for a tenancy.
Many older flats in Wellington were built before modern wiring standards existed. These properties often still rely on original wiring systems that are no longer compliant or safe. Rewiring ensures the electrical system meets today’s demands, provides better protection against fire and electrical shock, and increases the long-term value of the property. It also allows for the installation of additional power points, safety switches, and other modern conveniences that make everyday life easier for occupants.
While it’s natural to focus on cost, it’s equally important to understand how long the rewiring will take, especially if the flat is occupied or tenanted. Extended downtime can affect tenants’ living conditions and may require temporary accommodation, while owner-occupiers will want to plan their schedules to avoid unnecessary inconvenience. Good communication between you and your electrician helps minimise disruption and ensures the work is completed efficiently and safely.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the factors that affect the time it takes to rewire a flat, typical durations for different types of properties, and what happens during the rewiring process itself. You’ll also learn what you can do to help streamline the project, from preparing the flat before work begins to coordinating with other professionals involved in renovations or repairs.
By understanding the typical timeframe for flat rewiring, you can make informed decisions, manage expectations, and ensure your electrical upgrade runs as smoothly as possible. In the next section, we’ll explore the main factors that influence how long the work will take, so you can better estimate the timeline for your own property.
Factors That Affect How Long It Takes to Rewire a Flat
Rewiring a flat isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Every property has its own challenges, which means the time required can vary considerably from one flat to another. While some flats can be completed in a few days, others may take over a week depending on the scope and complexity of the work. To help you plan ahead, it’s useful to understand the key factors that influence how long an electrical rewiring project will take.
Size and Layout of the Flat
The overall size of the flat is one of the biggest factors in determining how long the work will take. A compact one-bedroom flat will naturally be quicker to rewire than a spacious three-bedroom apartment with multiple living areas. Each additional room adds to the amount of wiring, outlets, and light fittings that need to be installed, tested, and connected. Flats with large open-plan layouts may offer easier access than those with many small rooms and tight spaces, which can also affect the timeframe.
Access to Wiring Routes
Access plays a crucial role in how quickly electricians can complete a rewiring project. In a flat, ceiling and floor spaces may be shared with other units, or blocked by structural barriers, making it harder to run new cables. Some buildings have solid concrete ceilings or brick internal walls, requiring specialist tools and techniques to create channels for wiring. If roof voids or underfloor spaces aren’t accessible, electricians may need to cut access panels or work around existing fixtures, adding time to the job.
Condition of Existing Electrical System
The state of the existing wiring can also affect how long it takes to rewire a flat. In older flats, we often find outdated materials such as VIR (Vulcanised Indian Rubber) or brittle PVC cabling, which may need complete removal for safety. If the wiring is tangled, spliced, or patched from previous repairs, extra time is required to trace circuits, disconnect unsafe connections, and install a clean, compliant system. In contrast, flats that have been partially upgraded in the past may take less time if some wiring already meets current standards.
Switchboard Upgrade Requirements
Most rewiring projects include a switchboard upgrade to bring the electrical system up to modern safety standards. Installing a new switchboard with RCDs (Residual Current Devices) and MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers) can add a half-day to a full day to the project, depending on the number of circuits and whether the existing location is suitable. In apartment buildings, additional time may be needed to coordinate with building management if the main supply needs to be isolated during the upgrade.
Number of Circuits, Outlets, and Fixtures
Every power outlet, switch, and light fitting adds to the work involved in rewiring a flat. A basic installation with standard sockets and ceiling lights may be completed more quickly than a modern flat with additional outlets, USB chargers, feature lighting, or dimmers. Each extra circuit requires more cabling, connection, and testing, which increases the project duration. If you’re adding more outlets or upgrading lighting design during the rewire, factor this into your timeline expectations.
Occupied or Vacant Flat
Whether the flat is occupied or vacant during the rewiring also affects how long the work will take. An empty flat allows electricians to move freely, work uninterrupted, and leave tools and materials on-site overnight. In an occupied flat, the team may need to work around furniture, belongings, and daily routines, requiring additional care and staging. Occupied flats may also require temporary reconnections each evening to maintain essential power, adding extra steps to the process.
Building Rules and Restrictions
Many flats are part of apartment complexes governed by a body corporate or strata rules. These organisations often have regulations about work hours, noise limits, and use of shared spaces like lifts and hallways. Complying with these rules may restrict when electrical work can take place each day, slowing the overall project. Obtaining approvals or scheduling works around other building activities can also add delays.
Coordination with Other Trades
If rewiring is part of a larger renovation, electricians may need to coordinate with builders, plasterers, or decorators. For example, rewiring might need to happen before new linings are installed or after walls are opened up by a builder. Any dependencies on other trades can affect the timeline, depending on when those stages are ready.
How Weka Electrical Plans for Efficiency
At Weka Electrical, we take all these factors into account when estimating the duration of a rewiring project. We carry out a detailed inspection of your flat before providing a timeline, so you have a clear, realistic expectation of how long the work will take. By identifying potential challenges in advance, we can plan solutions to avoid unnecessary delays and keep the project running smoothly.
In the next section, we’ll look at typical rewiring timeframes for different types and sizes of flats, helping you set realistic expectations based on your property’s characteristics.
Typical Timeframes for Rewiring a Flat
Once you understand the factors that affect a rewiring project, it’s useful to look at typical timeframes. If you’re wondering how long rewiring a flat will take in real-world terms, the answer depends largely on the size and complexity of the property. While every project is unique, we’ve put together these general time estimates based on our experience rewiring flats across Wellington.
Studio or One-Bedroom Flat
Rewiring a small studio or one-bedroom flat usually takes between 2 and 3 working days. These properties typically have fewer circuits, outlets, and lighting points to replace. With good access and no major structural obstacles, our electricians can work efficiently and complete the rewiring with minimal disruption. If the flat is empty, the timeframe may be closer to two days; if occupied, add extra time to work around furniture or daily routines.
Two-Bedroom Flat
A standard two-bedroom flat generally takes 3 to 5 working days to complete. This timeframe accounts for additional rooms, more power outlets, extra lighting circuits, and possibly a more complex switchboard. Flats with open-plan living spaces may lean towards the shorter end of the scale, while flats with enclosed kitchens, laundry rooms, or multiple bathrooms may take a little longer. If ceilings or walls are concrete or access is restricted, this can extend the timeframe.
Three-Bedroom Flat
For a larger three-bedroom flat or apartment, rewiring typically takes between 5 and 7 working days. These projects involve more circuits and a higher number of outlets, light fittings, and switch points. Flats with extra features such as balconies, external lighting, or integrated ventilation systems may require additional time. Switchboard upgrades for larger flats may also take longer due to more complex configurations.
Flats with Difficult Access
If your flat has limited access to ceiling voids or underfloor spaces, expect the rewiring process to take longer. In these situations, electricians may need to cut additional access panels or work through small inspection openings to reach cabling routes. Flats located on upper floors of apartment buildings may also experience delays if access to service risers or shared building infrastructure needs to be arranged with building management.
Occupied Flats vs. Vacant Flats
Whether the flat is occupied or vacant during the project also influences the timeline. Rewiring an empty flat allows electricians to work uninterrupted, move freely, and complete tasks sequentially without daily packing up. In contrast, working in an occupied flat may require splitting the project into stages, covering exposed areas each evening, and providing temporary power at the end of each day. For occupied flats, allow an extra 1–2 days to the overall timeframe to account for these considerations.
Switchboard Upgrades and Safety Testing
Most flat rewiring projects will include upgrading the switchboard as part of compliance with modern safety regulations. Installing a new switchboard with RCD protection and labelling takes additional time—usually half a day to a full day depending on the complexity. Comprehensive testing is also required at the end of the project to ensure every circuit is safe, compliant, and operating as intended. While testing may only take a few hours, any issues that need correction can extend the project slightly.
Coordination with Building Management
In apartment complexes, coordinating access with building managers or body corporate representatives may add to the overall project duration. Gaining permission to work in shared service areas, arranging temporary disconnections, or complying with restricted working hours may introduce scheduling delays outside the electrician’s direct control. At Weka Electrical, we liaise directly with management teams to streamline permissions and minimise hold-ups wherever possible.
Multiple Flats in a Block
If you own multiple flats in the same building and plan to rewire them together, combined projects can sometimes reduce the overall timeline. Shared access to risers or switchboards, continuous work across adjacent units, and less repeated setup time can create efficiencies. However, rewiring multiple flats still requires careful scheduling to avoid conflicts with residents or building operations.
Emergency or Staged Rewiring
In rare cases, rewiring may need to be completed urgently—such as when the electrical system is deemed unsafe or after a significant fault. Emergency rewiring prioritises restoring safety quickly but may require temporary measures while a full installation is completed in stages. Staged rewiring, where only critical circuits are replaced initially, will take longer overall since work is broken into multiple phases.
Our Approach to Timelines
At Weka Electrical, we pride ourselves on providing accurate, honest time estimates. After inspecting your flat, we give you a project schedule outlining how long the work will take, what will happen each day, and how we’ll minimise disruption. We work efficiently while maintaining high safety and workmanship standards, aiming to deliver your rewired flat on time and ready for use.
In the next section, we’ll walk through the rewiring process itself, so you can see what’s involved day by day and understand the steps required to complete the upgrade safely and effectively.
The Rewiring Process Explained
Rewiring a flat involves more than replacing old cables—it’s a carefully planned process tailored to the unique layout and structure of an apartment. Unlike standalone houses, flats often share walls, ceilings, and service spaces with other units, which influences both how the work is carried out and how long it takes. Knowing what’s involved can help you plan ahead, manage expectations, and make the process smoother whether you live in the flat or manage it as a landlord.
Site Assessment and Permissions
The first step is arranging an inspection of the flat to assess its electrical condition, access points, and any building-specific restrictions. In apartment blocks, rewiring sometimes requires approval from the body corporate or building manager, especially if shared areas or main switchboards need to be accessed. At Weka Electrical, we help coordinate these approvals and ensure all building rules are followed to avoid delays.
During the assessment, we also map out wiring routes, note existing outlets and fittings, and discuss any upgrades you’d like included. This might involve adding more power points, repositioning light switches, or installing safety devices to meet current standards.
Planning Around Shared Infrastructure
Flats have shared building infrastructure, such as risers, ducts, or service shafts, where cables may need to pass through. Access to these spaces is often limited or controlled by the building’s management. Our planning includes scheduling time to work in these areas and arranging any necessary permissions. We also check whether the flat’s electrical circuits are isolated or linked to a shared supply, as this can affect how we approach the work.
Temporary Power Considerations
Many clients ask if they’ll be without power for the entire rewiring period. In flats, it’s sometimes possible to provide temporary power to essential circuits, such as a fridge or basic lighting, even while the main work is underway. We assess this on a case-by-case basis, depending on the layout and safety considerations. In vacant flats, we generally work with the full power isolated to ensure the fastest, safest installation.
Working in Compact Spaces
Flats are often more compact than houses, with fewer voids or accessible spaces. This makes rewiring a flat a more intricate task, as electricians must navigate tight areas, solid partitions, or limited ceiling cavities. Sometimes, it’s necessary to create small access openings in walls or ceilings to install new cabling safely. We always aim to minimise disruption to finishes, and where openings are unavoidable, we keep them as small and neat as possible to simplify later repairs.
Fitting New Outlets and Switches
Rewiring isn’t just about installing new cables—it’s also an opportunity to upgrade outlets and switches to more convenient, modern positions. Many older flats have limited sockets or awkwardly placed switches that don’t suit today’s lifestyles. We work with clients to reposition fittings where feasible, improving usability and future-proofing the flat’s electrical system for additional appliances or technology needs.
Switchboard Upgrades
In most flat rewiring projects, upgrading the switchboard is essential to meet safety requirements. Flats with older fuse boards are replaced with modern switchboards featuring RCDs and circuit breakers. Because the switchboard is usually located within the flat itself or in a shared service cupboard, we plan carefully to ensure minimal disruption to neighbours or other units while completing this work.
Coordination with Other Residents
One of the unique aspects of rewiring a flat is the need to consider neighbours. Noise, dust, and access to shared spaces must be managed thoughtfully to avoid complaints or conflicts. Our team communicates clearly with neighbouring residents and building management to set expectations and reduce inconvenience for everyone in the building.
Final Testing and Certification
Once the new wiring, outlets, switches, and switchboard are installed, we conduct thorough electrical testing to confirm everything is safe, compliant, and functioning as intended. We issue an Electrical Safety Certificate and Certificate of Compliance, providing peace of mind and legal documentation for insurance or property records.
In flats, testing also includes ensuring that circuits are correctly isolated and labelled, so future maintenance is straightforward. We make sure everything is clearly marked at the switchboard for easy identification of each circuit, which is particularly useful in properties with multiple similar rooms or layouts.
Post-Installation Support
After the work is complete, we walk you through the system, explaining the new switchboard, how to reset breakers, and how to test safety switches. We’re also available to answer follow-up questions or help coordinate any minor restoration work, such as plastering access holes or repainting areas affected during installation.
Throughout the project, our goal is to complete the rewiring efficiently while respecting the building, your flat’s interior, and neighbouring residents. Every flat rewiring project is tailored to the property’s unique requirements, which is why we take the time to plan carefully, communicate clearly, and deliver safe, compliant results on time.
In the next section, we’ll explain why choosing an experienced electrician is so important for flat rewiring projects and how Weka Electrical offers expertise, reliability, and peace of mind for Wellington property owners.
GET A FREE REWIRING QUOTE
Why Choose Weka Electrical for Flat Rewiring
Rewiring a flat isn’t a simple swap of old cables for new—it’s a complex project that requires knowledge of building regulations, apartment infrastructure, and safe working practices in shared environments. Choosing the right electrician is crucial to ensure your project runs smoothly, safely, and with minimal disruption. At Weka Electrical, we specialise in rewiring flats and apartments throughout Wellington, bringing years of experience and a reputation for quality workmanship to every job.
Expertise in Apartment and Flat Rewiring
Not all electricians are familiar with the challenges that come with flat rewiring. Shared ceilings, party walls, and communal switchboards demand a specific approach to ensure compliance and safety. Our team has extensive experience working in multi-unit dwellings, coordinating with body corporates, building managers, and neighbouring residents to carry out rewiring projects efficiently and respectfully.
We understand that working in a flat often means dealing with confined spaces, concrete walls, and tight cable routes. Our electricians are equipped with the tools, techniques, and problem-solving skills to handle these complexities without compromising the quality or safety of the installation.
Compliance with Safety Standards
All electrical work in New Zealand must comply with AS/NZS 3000 wiring rules. When you choose Weka Electrical, you can be confident that every aspect of your flat’s rewiring meets the latest safety regulations. From installing RCD protection to ensuring proper circuit isolation, we follow industry best practices to safeguard both your property and its occupants.
At the completion of your project, we provide a Certificate of Compliance and an Electrical Safety Certificate, giving you official documentation for insurance purposes and peace of mind that the work has been carried out to the highest standard.
Transparent Quotes and Clear Communication
One of the most common concerns clients have is uncertainty around cost and project timelines. That’s why Weka Electrical provides detailed, itemised quotes that clearly explain what’s included. We take the time to assess your flat in person before providing a quote so you know exactly what to expect. Our quotes cover materials, labour, switchboard upgrades, and any additional features you request—so there are no surprises down the line.
Throughout the rewiring project, we keep you informed every step of the way. Whether it’s coordinating access with the building manager or updating you on daily progress, we prioritise clear communication to ensure everything stays on track and any challenges are resolved quickly.
Minimising Disruption to You and Your Neighbours
Rewiring a flat in a shared building means thinking beyond your own property. Noise, dust, and access to shared service areas can affect neighbours if not managed carefully. We take a considerate approach to working in apartment environments, scheduling noisy tasks during acceptable hours and keeping work areas clean and safe.
If you’re living in the flat during the project, we work with you to plan staged works so that key services remain available where possible. If the flat is vacant, we focus on completing the work as efficiently as possible to get it move-in ready without delay.
Custom Solutions Tailored to Your Needs
Every flat is different, which is why we tailor our rewiring solutions to match your property’s unique requirements. Whether you’re adding extra power points, upgrading to smart switches, or future-proofing for electric vehicle charging, we’ll work with you to create a system that supports your current needs and anticipates future technologies.
We also help clients make decisions about outlet placement, lighting upgrades, and appliance circuits to enhance the usability and convenience of the space. Our goal is not just to meet minimum safety standards but to deliver an electrical system that makes your flat more functional and enjoyable to live in.
Reliable, Trusted, Local
As a Wellington-based electrical company, Weka Electrical takes pride in serving local homeowners, landlords, and property managers. We’ve built our reputation on quality workmanship, honesty, and genuine care for our clients. Many of our rewiring projects come from referrals and repeat customers who trust us to handle their properties with professionalism and respect.
We understand that rewiring a flat is a significant investment in your property’s safety and value. That’s why we treat every job as if it were our own home, paying attention to the small details that make a difference in the long term.
Get Started with a Professional Assessment
If you’re considering rewiring your flat, the first step is a professional assessment. We’ll visit your property to inspect the current wiring, check the switchboard, review access routes, and discuss your goals for the upgrade. From there, we provide a detailed quote and timeline so you can plan with confidence.
Whether you’re concerned about safety, preparing for a renovation, or upgrading to meet insurance or tenancy standards, Weka Electrical is ready to help. We’re committed to delivering safe, compliant, and high-quality rewiring solutions tailored to flats and apartments in Wellington.
Contact Weka Electrical today to schedule an inspection or request a quote for your flat rewiring project. Trust the local experts who understand the unique needs of apartment living and are dedicated to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it usually take to rewire a flat?
For most flats, rewiring takes between 3 and 7 working days depending on the size, access, and complexity. A small one-bedroom flat may be rewired in 2–3 days, while a larger three-bedroom flat could take up to a week or longer if access is limited or upgrades are included.
2. Can I live in the flat while it’s being rewired?
It’s possible to stay in the flat during rewiring, but it may be disruptive. Some rooms may be unavailable at certain times, and power will be off for parts of each day. If the work is staged room-by-room, we can maintain essential services in other areas. Many clients choose temporary accommodation for comfort.
3. Does rewiring a flat include upgrading the switchboard?
Yes, rewiring a flat typically involves replacing an outdated switchboard with a modern version that includes RCD protection and circuit breakers. This ensures the electrical system meets current safety standards and provides better protection for occupants and appliances.
4. Will the rewiring work cause damage to my flat?
We aim to minimise disruption, but some minor damage may occur where access is needed inside walls or ceilings. Small holes may be cut to run new wiring safely, which can be patched and repainted after the electrical work is complete. We keep access points as small and neat as possible.
5. How much does it cost to rewire a flat?
The cost to rewire a flat depends on its size, number of circuits, access, and any upgrades. As a guide, rewiring a one-bedroom flat may cost from $7,000 to $10,000, while a larger three-bedroom flat may range from $12,000 to $18,000. A site assessment is required for an accurate quote.
6. What are the signs my flat needs rewiring?
Common signs include flickering lights, tripping circuits, warm or discoloured sockets, a dated fuse box, or old wiring materials like rubber-insulated cables. If your flat hasn’t been rewired in 40+ years, it’s wise to have it inspected by a licensed electrician to check for safety issues.
7. Do I need permission to rewire a flat in an apartment block?
Yes, in most apartment buildings you’ll need approval from the body corporate or building manager, especially if shared service areas or main switchboards are involved. We help coordinate permissions and ensure work complies with building rules to avoid delays or disputes.
8. How can I minimise disruption during a flat rewiring project?
Preparing the flat in advance—such as clearing furniture away from walls and securing fragile items—can speed up the process. Staying elsewhere during the work also reduces daily setup time. Choosing an experienced electrician like Weka Electrical ensures work is well-organised and efficient.
