Hi folks

I am looking at buying a property in need of modernisation as a project which doesn't necessarily have to make lots of money but  would be more than a pain if it lost me money!

I have tackled most DIY jobs and have lived through a number of house renovations so I think I am capable of doing this.

I have seen a property which could be just what I am looking for and I am trying to come up with a reasonably accurate costing for doing all the work.

The property is the 1st floor of a 2 floor detatched house and has not really had much done since the 60's.  The light switches and sockets are at least 40 years old and there is a lot of wiring trailing along skirting boards and around door jambs.

The property consists of 2 beds, living room, bathroom, kitchen, utility room.

So given that a rewire is in order and that I want to keep costs to a minimum can I asked the assemble audience the following.

1) If I were to sub the whole job what sort of figure would I be looking at?

2) Given the new regs, is it feasible for me to do most of the work chasing out, wiring to sockets, switches, light fitings etc. and getting it certified?  If so again what would you estimate the cost to be.

Sorry to jump straight in like this with my first post but I have to move quckly if I want the property and I am pretty happy estimating the rest of the costs.

Cheers

Martin

Thanks for that.

I hate asaking how long a piece of string is   but I am only looking for rough estimates.

I am not sure that I really understand the new regulations and I know there have been numerous discussions here and elsewhere but am I correct in thinking that what you are saying is that it can be done by me as long as I a) notify building control to get permission b)  Have the first fix inspected (i.e. all wiring before it is covered up etc.) and c) have it signed off at the end?  Or do I have to do the above and get a qualified  spark to certify it?

Thanks

Martin

As Scotspark says, it does depend on your LABC: http://www.labc-services.co.uk/default.asp

If you contact them they will tell you how they are doing it - it varies from place to place. Some will arrange inspections and testing (at a price) some, apparently, will take a notification fee then accept a certificate issued by a qualified (but unregistered) spark.

They would all prefer that you get the job done by a registered electrician - that way they don't have to get involved at all!!!

Just spoke to local BC officer and he said that "we will not inspect and certify electrical installations".  Apparently their insurers were the root cause of the answer to this question.

Cheers

Martin