What is the Cost of Upgrading a Fuseboard?

Your fuseboard, also known as a consumer unit, is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It distributes electricity safely and protects your home from overloads, electrical faults, and even fires. But over time, fuseboards can become outdated or fail to meet modern electrical demands.
If you’re a UK homeowner, a common question is: “What is the cost of upgrading a fuseboard?” At MAKSE Electrical & Renewables, we help homes across the Staffordshireupgrade their fuseboards safely, efficiently, and in compliance with current regulations. This guide will break down typical costs, what affects pricing, and why an upgrade is often essential.
Why You Might Need a Fuseboard Upgrade?
Many homeowners underestimate the importance of a modern fuseboard. Signs that your board may need upgrading include:
- Frequent tripping of circuits
- Buzzing sounds or burning smells
- Old ceramic fuses or wooden backboards
- Planning to add EV chargers, solar panels, or additional appliances
Modern fuseboards include RCD protection, which reduces the risk of electrical shocks and fires. Outdated consumer units are a leading cause of house fires in the UK each year.
Upgrading your fuseboard not only increases safety but also improves electrical reliability and makes your home ready for modern energy demands.
Typical Costs for a Fuseboard Upgrade
The cost of a fuseboard upgrade in the UK depends on property size, existing wiring, and the type of consumer unit. Here’s a helpful breakdown:
- Standard UK home (8–12 circuits, single-phase): £250–£450
- Larger homes (16–24 circuits, multi-phase): £450–£700
- Older homes with complex wiring: £700–£1,200
These costs usually include:
- Removal of the old fuseboard
- Installation of a modern, RCD-protected unit
- Labour by a qualified electrician
- Testing and certification
What Factors Influence the Cost?
Several factors can affect the price of your upgrade:
- Number of circuits: More circuits require more time and materials.
- Age of wiring: Older properties may need additional rewiring.
- Type of fuseboard: Single-phase vs. three-phase, number of switches, or smart units.
- Additional services: Integrating EV chargers or solar panel systems.
- Property location: Labour costs vary across the UK.
A professional electrician will assess these factors to give you a transparent, accurate quote.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
While most quotes cover the basics, some upgrades may incur additional charges:
- Adding extra circuits for new appliances
- Replacing old or damaged wiring
- Difficult access to old fuseboards, requiring extra time
At MAKSE Electrical & Renewables, we provide full transparency on costs and ensure there are no surprises.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Fuseboard
Upgrading your fuseboard is an investment with long-term advantages:
- Safety: Reduces risk of fire and electric shock
- Reliability: Less risk of tripping or power interruptions
- Future-proofing: Ready for EV chargers, solar panels, or home expansions
- Compliance: Meets current UK wiring regulations
- Peace of mind: Professionally installed and tested
How Long Does a Fuseboard Upgrade Take?
Most domestic upgrades take 4–6 hours, depending on:
- Number of circuits and property size
- Wiring condition and accessibility
- Additional installations like EV chargers or solar systems
During the upgrade, electricity will be temporarily switched off. After installation, your electrician will test the system and provide certification to confirm safety.
FAQs
1: Can I upgrade my fuseboard myself?
A: No. Only qualified electricians can safely upgrade a fuseboard to comply with UK law.
2: Will my home insurance be affected?
A: Some policies require updated electrical systems. Always check your provider’s terms.
3: How often should a fuseboard be replaced?
A: Typically, every 25–40 years, or sooner if the system is outdated or fails an EICR.
4: Does it increase property value?
A: Yes. A modern fuseboard improves safety, compliance, and appeal for potential buyers.
Why Choose MAKSE Electrical & Renewables?
At MAKSE Electrical & Renewables, we provide:
- Fully qualified NICEIC-approved electricians
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Post-installation testing and certification
- Integration with EV chargers, solar systems, and rewiring projects
We prioritise safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, ensuring your home’s electrical system is reliable and ready for the future.
- Electrical faults cause over 20,000 house fires annually in the UK
- Outdated fuseboards increase fire risk by up to 30%
- RCD-protected boards reduce electric shock risk by over 60%
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of upgrading a fuseboard helps homeowners make safe and informed decisions.
A modern fuseboard is more than a simple electrical panel; it’s safety, reliability, and peace of mind all in one. Whether your home is old, you plan to install EV chargers or solar panels, or you simply want compliance with UK regulations, a professional upgrade is essential.
At MAKSE Electrical & Renewables, we deliver expert, certified, and efficient fuseboard upgrades across the Staffordshire. Book your fuseboard upgrade today and ensure your home is safe, modern, and future-proof.