The Project Overview
We were instructed to carry out a comprehensive electrical rewire of a 1960s three-bedroom semi-detached property in Market Harborough. The project began following a request for a formal Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) from the new homeowners prior to their renovation works.
The Challenge: Identifying “Cable Cancer”
During the initial EICR, our testing identified critically low Insulation Resistance (IR) readings across several circuits. Upon further investigation, we discovered extensive evidence of “Green Goo” (cable cancer)—a chemical reaction where the plasticizer in early PVC cabling leaches out, creating a sticky, green, acidic substance.
Left untreated, this green goo can cause high-resistance connections and potential fire risks. Given the age of the installation and the degraded state of the wiring found during the EICR, a full professional rewire was the only safe and compliant solution for the property.
Our Solution
Our team designed a high-spec installation to replace the failing 1960s infrastructure with a modern, high-capacity system:
Advanced Protection: We installed a new metal-clad consumer unit equipped with Individual RCBO protection and a Type 2 Surge Protective Device (SPD) to safeguard the home’s modern electronics.
Premium Finish: To match the client’s interior design goals, we installed high-spec brushed chrome sockets and switches throughout the entire property, providing a sleek, contemporary look.
Kitchen & Utility Power: Dedicated high-amperage circuits were installed for modern appliances, ensuring the electrical system could handle current domestic loads without stress.
Clean Installation: By utilizing existing floor voids and strategic wall chasing, we kept the physical disruption to the property’s structure to an absolute minimum while ensuring all cables were installed in “safe zones” as per BS 7671.
The Result
The project was delivered in 7 working days, fully tested, and certified. By identifying the cable cancer early through the EICR, we prevented future electrical failures. We handled the Building Control notification on the client’s behalf, providing them with a complete Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) and a home that is now safe for decades to come.
Frequently Asked Questions: House Rewiring
How long does a 3-bedroom house rewire take? In the Market Harborough area, a full rewire typically takes 5 to 10 working days. If you are living in the property, we work in stages to ensure you have essential power and water at the end of every day.
What is “Green Goo” or Cable Cancer? This is a common issue in 1960s and 70s properties where the chemicals in the cable insulation break down over time. It can lead to poor insulation resistance and green residue at switches and sockets. If found during an EICR, it usually indicates that a rewire is necessary.
Do I need to move out during the work? It isn’t strictly necessary, but it is easier if the house is empty. If you stay, we protect your floors and use dust extraction to keep the environment clean, though we do recommend moving sensitive furniture away from the work zones.
Will a rewire damage my walls or decor? Rewiring requires “chasing” into walls to hide cables. While we use the neatest methods possible, some plaster patching and repainting will be required. We always walk through the cable routes with you beforehand so there are no surprises.
How much does a 3-bedroom rewire cost in Leicestershire? For a 3-bedroom home, costs generally start from around £5,000+. However, the final price is highly dependent on the chosen specification (such as brushed chrome vs. white plastic) and the total number of points (sockets, lights, and switches) required throughout the property.
Will I receive legal certification? Absolutely. We provide a formal Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) and notify Building Control for you. This paperwork is vital for your home insurance and is required when you sell your property.
⚠️ Concerned About Your Wiring?
If your home was built between the 1940s and 1960s, you may have VIR (Vulcanised Indian Rubber) cabling. VIR is now considered highly dangerous as the rubber insulation becomes brittle and flakes away over time, leaving live conductors exposed inside your walls.
Whether you’ve noticed green residue at your sockets (Cable Cancer) or suspect you have aging rubber cabling, contact Albert Electrical Services today for a professional EICR and safety survey.
