Top 5 Signs Your Home Needs Electrical Rewiring

Your home’s wiring is the backbone of your daily life—but it doesn’t last forever. As electricians, we often get called to homes with wiring that’s well past its prime. Here are five common signs your house might need a full or partial rewiring:

1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

If your breakers are constantly tripping, it could mean your system is overloaded or has faulty wiring.

2. Flickering or Dimming Lights

Lights that flicker when you plug something in are often a sign of outdated or damaged wiring struggling to carry the load.

3. Outlets That Feel Warm or Buzz

If your outlets or leads are warm to the touch, make buzzing sounds, or have scorch marks, that’s a serious red flag. Call a professional immediately.

4. Steel Conduit = Cotton Wrapped Cables

Beware of older houses. Homes built prior to 60s often used Vulcanized Indian Rubber (VIR or cloth cable). While once common, VIR cables are now considered outdated and pose significant safety risks due to the deterioration of their rubber insulation.

5. Fuses or Circuit Breakers

Has your switchboard been updated since 2018? A lack of RCDs (Residual Current Devices) on all your circuits present a significant risk. RCDs are essential safety devices that cut off the power supply instantly if they detect a fault, protecting individuals from potentially fatal electric shocks. Don’t be fooled RCDs and Circuit breakers look the same, have your board checked to keep you safe.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Faulty wiring isn’t just inconvenient—it can be a fire hazard. As licensed electricians, Ashtec Electrical Services can inspect your property and recommend a safe solution. Call us today on 6761 7342.