Table of Contents
Phase 1: Inspection and Scope
A licensed electrician walks the home, inspects the panel, samples outlets and switches in every room, checks the attic and crawl space, and documents the existing wire type, era, and condition. Output: a written scope with room-by-room count of outlets, switches, and fixtures, plus panel work required.
Phase 2: Design and Permit
The electrician submits a load calculation and one-line diagram to the city plan-check department. Most OC cities take 1–3 weeks. Larger jobs may require a structural review if any framing is affected.
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Phase 3: Rough-In
Power is off for staged sections (usually room by room over 1–3 weeks). Old wire is pulled where possible; new copper romex is fished through walls, secured, and terminated into new boxes. This is the messy phase — expect some drywall cuts.
Phase 4: Panel, Devices, and Trim
New panel is installed, all new circuits terminated, all new devices (outlets, switches, cover plates) installed. GFCI and AFCI protection added everywhere code requires.
Phase 5: Inspection and Sign-Off
City inspector visits before drywall closure (rough-in inspection) and after finish work (final inspection). Both sign off before power is officially permitted.
Living Through It
Most families stay in the home. Expect 2–4 weeks of intermittent power in specific rooms, dust from drywall cuts, and one or two full-day utility shutdowns for panel work. Refrigerator and internet stay on except for the shutdown days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we phase a rewire over years?+
Yes — many homeowners rewire the panel and kitchen first, then bedrooms, then living areas. Costs slightly more overall but spreads the disruption and expense.