Updated
Old Cloth Or Rubber Wiring
Your home has old cloth-insulated or rubber-insulated wiring that is deteriorating and may be unsafe.
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What's happening?
Cloth and rubber wiring was commonly used in UK homes built before the 1960s. The insulation on these cables degrades over time, becoming brittle and crumbling away. This exposes the live conductors and creates serious risks of electric shock and fire. If your home still has cloth or rubber wiring, it almost certainly does not meet current BS 7671 wiring regulations.
What usually causes it?
- Property was built before the 1960s and has never been rewired
- Previous electricians ran new circuits but left old wiring in place
- Wiring is in a loft or underfloor void where insulation has degraded faster due to heat
- Rubber insulation has perished with age, leaving bare conductors
- Extensions or alterations were connected to the original wiring
Is it dangerous?
Yes, old cloth and rubber wiring is dangerous. The insulation breaks down over time and can crumble when touched, exposing live conductors. This creates a significant risk of electric shock and fire. The wiring will also lack an earth conductor (CPC), meaning there is no protection against earth faults. This is a serious safety concern that should be addressed urgently.
Can I fix it myself?
No. You should not attempt any work on old cloth or rubber wiring. Do not disturb it, pull it, or try to re-insulate it. Avoid overloading circuits on old wiring — do not use high-power appliances or multi-socket adapters. The only proper solution is a full or partial rewire by a qualified electrician.
When should you call an electrician?
Call an electrician as soon as you discover cloth or rubber wiring. If the insulation is visibly crumbling or you can see bare conductors, treat it as urgent. An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) will confirm the extent of the problem and what work is needed.
What will the electrician actually do?
- Carry out an EICR to assess the condition of all wiring in the property
- Identify which circuits still use old cloth or rubber-insulated cables
- Recommend a full or partial rewire depending on the extent of old wiring
- Install new PVC-insulated cables to current BS 7671 standards
- Fit a modern consumer unit with RCD protection
- Issue an Electrical Installation Certificate on completion
What will it cost to fix?
£3,000–£8,000
Full rewire costs depend on property size. A 2-bed flat is typically £3,000–£4,500; a 3-bed house £5,000–£8,000. Partial rewires for specific circuits cost less.
Find an electricianFrequently asked questions
We’re happy to answer all your questions.
How do I know if my house has cloth wiring?
Check in the loft, under floorboards, or inside old light fittings. Cloth wiring has a fabric-covered appearance and may be black, dark brown, or grey. If the insulation crumbles when gently touched, it is deteriorated cloth or rubber.
Can I just rewire part of the house?
Yes, a partial rewire is possible if some circuits have already been updated. An electrician can assess which circuits need replacing and which are acceptable.
Will I need to redecorate after a rewire?
Some redecoration is usually needed as the electrician will need to chase cables into walls and lift floorboards. A good electrician will minimise disruption, but expect to replaster and repaint in places.
Is an EICR legally required?
For rented properties in England, landlords must have an EICR every 5 years. For homeowners it is not legally required but is strongly recommended, especially for older properties.
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