Rewiring and Renovations: The Smart Way to Modernise Your Electrical System Safely

When you renovate or upgrade your property, one of the most overlooked (but most important) aspects is your electrical wiring.
Old or inadequate wiring can’t keep up with today’s modern appliances, lighting, and energy needs – and that can cause power failures, safety risks, and compliance issues down the line.

Many South African homes built before the 1990s still use outdated wiring that doesn’t comply with the latest SANS 10142-1 Wiring Code.
Rewiring ensures your installation meets the Department of Employment and Labour’s safety standards, while giving you the flexibility to power everything from induction stoves to inverter systems.

Outdated wiring isn’t just inconvenient – it’s dangerous.
Here’s what can happen when your wiring has reached the end of its life:

• Overheating and fire risk due to old insulation or undersized cables
• Frequent breaker tripping or blown fuses
• Flickering or dim lights when appliances draw current
• Shock hazards from loose or exposed connections
• Non-compliance with CoC (Certificate of Compliance) requirements

According to the Electrical Contractors Association of South Africa (ECA(SA)), thousands of South African homes fail compliance checks each year because of non-standard wiring or DIY modifications.

If your property hasn’t been rewired in over 20 years – or if you’re renovating – it’s time for a professional assessment.

You should always schedule an inspection or full rewire when:

• You’re planning a major renovation or home extension
• You notice discoloured outlets or burnt smells
• Your lights flicker or breakers trip frequently
• You’re installing inverters or solar systems
• Your home still has round plug sockets or metal conduits

Rewiring before renovations ensures your new finishes, walls, and ceilings don’t have to be re-opened later. It also allows your electrician to lay modern, efficient cabling that supports high-load appliances and energy-efficient lighting.

Renovations are the ideal opportunity to modernise your entire electrical system – not just replace old wires.
Here’s what you can upgrade at the same time:

• LED and smart lighting systems for energy savings
• USB wall sockets and modern outlets
• Surge protection for electronics
• Load balancing and dedicated circuits for heavy appliances
• Upgraded distribution boards (DBs) with earth leakage and RCBOs
• Conduits for solar or backup power systems

These upgrades not only improve safety but also increase your property’s resale value and compliance rating.

At Ronald George Electrical, our rewiring process follows a tested, compliant framework that ensures minimal disruption and full safety compliance.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Inspection & Quotation
We inspect your current wiring, distribution board, and circuit layout. You’ll receive a detailed quotation outlining exactly what needs replacing.

2. Isolation & Demolition
Power is isolated safely before old wiring is removed. We take care to protect existing finishes and infrastructure wherever possible.

3. New Cable Installation
We install new PVC-insulated copper wiring to SANS 10142-1 standards, with modern circuit separation for lighting, plugs, and heavy loads.

4. Testing & Certification
Every circuit is tested for continuity, insulation resistance, and polarity. Only once all tests pass do we issue your Certificate of Compliance (CoC).

5. Final Finishes & Walkthrough
We reconnect all fittings, check load balance, and walk you through the system – ensuring you understand every new feature.

In South Africa, it’s illegal to sell or lease a property without a valid CoC.
This certificate confirms that your electrical system meets national safety standards, ensuring your insurer or property agent won’t reject claims or transactions.

You can read more about compliance here:

• Department of Employment and Labour – Electrical CoC Requirements
• ECA(SA): Certificate of Compliance Information

When you work with a qualified, ECA(SA)-registered electrician, your rewire will automatically include all testing and certification needed for full compliance.

While rewiring can feel like a big upfront investment, it’s one of the most cost-effective long-term upgrades you can make.
Modern wiring reduces energy waste, prevents appliance damage, and can cut insurance risks significantly.

Plus, you’ll enjoy the freedom to:

• Add new lighting and outlets wherever needed
• Use high-demand appliances safely
• Integrate future upgrades like solar, inverters, or EV chargers

In short, rewiring future-proofs your property for modern living.

With over 35 years of experience in the electrical industry, Ronald George Electrical has helped hundreds of Cape Town homeowners and businesses modernise safely and efficiently.

We specialise in:

• Full or partial rewiring projects
• Renovation-based electrical planning
• Lighting design and installation
• DB board and surge protection upgrades
• Certificate of Compliance (CoC) issuance

We’re BBBEE Level 1, fully insured, and registered with all major South African compliance bodies – ensuring every project is done right, first time.

Get your home or business ready for the future – safely and legally.
Contact Ronald George Electrical for a professional rewiring or renovation consultation today.