Whole-house rewiring is one of the most involved residential electrical projects — and one of the most worthwhile for homes with aging or inadequate wiring. Mid Penn Electric has completed full rewires ranging from older homes with knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring to major additions where the scope demanded starting fresh. We serve homeowners throughout Lebanon, Lancaster, and Dauphin counties.
When a Whole-House Rewire Is Needed
A complete rewire is typically warranted when a home has knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring that is no longer safe or insurable, when a major addition or renovation opens the walls enough to make comprehensive rewiring practical, or when an older home’s wiring simply cannot support modern electrical loads. The best opportunity for a rewire is during a renovation — as we found in Elizabethtown, PA, where a family’s second-story addition gave us the chance to rewire the entire home to current standards, including a new 200-amp service and AFCI protection on every 120-volt circuit.
What a Full Rewire Includes
A whole-house rewire typically includes a new or upgraded electrical service, a new panel with properly sized breakers, new wiring run to every circuit in the home, AFCI and GFCI protection where required by current code, and new outlets, switches, and fixtures throughout. We work efficiently to minimize disruption and coordinate closely with any other contractors on the job.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a whole-house rewire take?
The timeline depends on the size of the home, the complexity of the existing wiring, and whether the home is occupied or undergoing a broader renovation. A rewire done in conjunction with a major renovation — when walls are already open — is significantly faster than rewiring a fully finished home. Most residential rewires take anywhere from several days to several weeks. We can give you a realistic timeline after seeing the home.
Is it safe to live in a home with knob-and-tube wiring?
Knob-and-tube wiring was the standard in homes built before the 1940s and is not inherently dangerous if it is in good condition, unmodified, and not covered with insulation. However, it lacks a ground conductor, cannot safely support modern electrical loads, and is often disqualifying for home insurance. If your home has knob-and-tube wiring, having it assessed by a licensed electrician is an important first step.
Does a whole-house rewire require permits?
Yes. A whole-house rewire is a significant electrical project that requires permits and inspections in Pennsylvania. Permitted work provides documentation that the installation was completed to code and inspected — which matters for insurance, future sales, and your own peace of mind. We handle the permit process as part of the project.