How Much Does Rewiring a House Cost in Washington, D.C.?

The average cost to rewire a house in Washington, D.C. is $1,490, with most projects ranging from $670 to $2,375. Minor electrical updates may fall below $1,000, while full rewiring in older homes with outdated systems can push the cost above $3,000. Factors that influence cost include the age of the home, the complexity of its layout, and whether your wiring needs to be brought up to modern code. Here's what you can expect to pay for a rewiring project in the District.

Rewiring a House Cost Factors

Many variables contribute to the total cost of rewiring. If you think it’s the right time to upgrade your home electrical wiring, here are the main factors to keep in mind when estimating your cost to rewire a house in Washington, D.C. 

Home Size

The cost to rewire a home in Washington, D.C. is often calculated by square footage, with most homeowners paying between $2 and $4 per square foot for materials and labor.

Materials

Materials make up a significant part of the total cost to rewire a house in Washington, D.C. You’ll need wire, outlets, switches, and possibly a new panel. Choosing high-end or specialized materials, like smart home components or fire-resistant cables, may raise your budget but offer improved safety and functionality.

Preparation and Cleanup

You can expect to pay up to $500 for cleanup services after the job is done. While contractors handle basic prep, homeowners are responsible for tasks like moving furniture, clearing valuables, and making sure the work area is accessible and protected from dust or damage.

Electrician Pro Costs in Washington, D.C.

Hiring a licensed electrician in Washington, D.C. means working within the city’s permitting system, strict code requirements, and professional labor standards, all of which shape your project cost. From hourly pricing and material taxes to available warranties, here’s what you should know when rewiring a home in the District.

Licensing and Insurance

Electrical contractors in Washington, D.C. must be licensed through the Department of Buildings (DOB), and all work must comply with the city’s building and energy codes. For residential jobs like panel upgrades or rewiring, permits are required and can only be pulled by a licensed Master Electrician. D.C. also requires electricians to hold active liability insurance. Always verify both license and insurance before hiring, as unlicensed work can lead to failed inspections, fines, or denied insurance claims.

Hourly Rates and Taxes

Local electricians in Washington, D.C. charge $50 to $100 per hour for labor. The District charges a 6% sales tax on taxable goods and some services. For rewiring projects, expect to pay that 6% on materials (wires, switches, panel) and possibly on some labor-related fees, depending on how your contractor itemizes the invoice.

Tipping

Tipping electricians in D.C. isn’t standard practice, but if you’re especially pleased with the work, a 5 to 10% tip is a thoughtful gesture. Alternatively, leaving a glowing review or recommending them to others is a great way to show appreciation and support their business.

Warranties

Most electricians include a 1- to 5-year warranty that covers installation errors or defective parts. In some cases, you can purchase an extended warranty with broader protection. Be sure to ask your contractor about available plans and compare what they offer to determine if the upgrade is worth the extra cost.

Does Rewiring a House Increase Home Value?

In Washington, D.C., rewiring a home can offer a strong return on investment, especially if you’re investing in the cost of replacing knob and tube wiring or other outdated components in the city’s historic neighborhoods. Upgrading a home’s wiring improves safety, ensures code compliance, and supports features like high-efficiency HVAC systems and electric vehicle chargers, which are important selling points for many homebuyers. While it might not carry the same punch as a kitchen remodel, it enhances overall functionality and peace of mind, often making the difference during home inspections or appraisals in D.C.’s competitive housing market.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.