Electrical System
Electrical System | Whole Home Rewires | Electrical | Philadelphia
When the lights in your Philly rowhome flicker or breakers keep tripping, it isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a sign that the wiring hidden behind your walls has reached its limit. HEP’s licensed electricians specialize in whole home rewires, replacing outdated knob-and-tube or aluminum runs with modern copper circuits that can safely handle today’s high-demand appliances, smart-home tech, and EV chargers. We handle every step, from pulling permits and coordinating inspections to patching plaster, so you can enjoy a seamless upgrade without the construction chaos.
Clients across Philadelphia choose HEP because we blend old-city craftsmanship with cutting-edge safety standards. Our team respects historic architecture, weaves new wiring through tight joist bays without damaging original details, and leaves your space spotless at day’s end. Most projects are completed in as little as a week, and they come backed by a lifetime workmanship guarantee and transparent, upfront pricing. If you’re ready to boost resale value, lower fire risk, and power the future of your home, schedule a free assessment with HEP today.
FAQs
Why might I need a whole-home rewire in Philadelphia?
Older Philadelphia housing stock often contains knob-and-tube wiring (pre-1940), aluminum branch circuits (1960s–70s) or cloth-insulated wiring that has become brittle. These systems are undersized for today’s appliance loads, lack grounding, and pose fire or shock hazards. A full rewire replaces every circuit with modern copper conductors, grounded receptacles, AFCI/GFCI protection, and a service panel sized for current and future demand, bringing the residence up to the latest NEC and Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) requirements.
How long does a complete rewiring project usually take?
For a typical Philadelphia rowhome (1,500–2,000 sq ft) with accessible basements and attics, a full rewire averages 5–7 working days. Larger twins or single-family homes can take 2–3 weeks. Timeline depends on factors such as plaster vs. drywall walls, whether the house is occupied, and any needed service-panel upgrades. We give you a detailed schedule before work starts and update you daily so you’ll know exactly which rooms are affected and when power will be restored each evening.
Will I need permits, and do you handle inspections?
Yes. Philadelphia L&I requires an Electrical Permit for any rewire that involves new circuits or service changes. Our master electricians pull all necessary permits, schedule rough-in and final inspections, and remain on-site during walkthroughs to address any questions from the city inspector. You receive copies of approved permits, inspection reports, and a Certificate of Approval for your records and insurance carrier.
Can I stay in my home during the rewiring process?
In most cases, yes. We rewire room by room, keeping essential circuits (refrigerator, HVAC, temporary lighting) energized at the end of each workday. Protective floor coverings and dust barriers minimize disruption, and daily clean-ups allow you to use living spaces after hours. If extensive plaster demo is required or you work from home and need uninterrupted power, we can arrange temporary relocation or phase the project to accommodate your schedule.
How much does a whole-home rewire cost in the Philadelphia area?
Costs vary with square footage, number of circuits, and finish level, but typical ranges are: • Rowhome (1,200–1,800 sq ft): $12,000–$18,000 • Twin/duplex (1,800–2,500 sq ft): $18,000–$25,000 • Larger single (2,500 sq ft+): $25,000–$40,000+ Pricing includes new 200-amp service panel, copper wiring, devices, arc-fault breakers, permits, and patching of small wall openings. We provide a fixed-price proposal after an on-site assessment and can break the project into phases or offer financing to fit your budget.
What electrical codes and safety standards must be followed?
All work is completed to the current National Electrical Code (NEC)—Pennsylvania has adopted the 2023 edition—and any more stringent amendments in Philadelphia’s Administrative Code. That means installing grounded 15- and 20-amp circuits, AFCI protection in habitable rooms, GFCI protection in kitchens, baths, basements, and exterior outlets, tamper-resistant receptacles, correct box fill, and proper support and stapling of cables. We also adhere to NFPA 70E safety practices while on the job, carry full liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and provide a one-year workmanship warranty plus all manufacturer warranties on materials.