How Proper Electrical Work Can Increase the Value and Safety of a Home

  • 17th July 2024
white painted switch

When it comes to increasing the value of a home, many homeowners focus on aesthetic improvements like a fresh coat of paint, landscaping, or kitchen renovations. 

However, one of the most critical, yet often overlooked aspects of home improvement is electrical work. 

Proper electrical work not only enhances the safety and functionality of a home but can also significantly increase its market value. 

This blog explores how investing in quality electrical work can boost your home’s value and ensure it remains a safe, efficient, and desirable place to live… or sell!

The Importance of Electrical Safety and Compliance
Meeting Current Electrical Safety Requirements
  • Why It Matters: Electrical regulations are updated periodically to reflect new safety standards and technological advancements. Ensuring your home’s electrical system meets current standards can prevent safety hazards and even potential legal issues. Legal requirements are especially important to adhere to if you are a landlord or own a commercial property.
  • Impact on Home Value: A home with an up-to-date electrical system is more appealing to buyers who are looking for safety and reliability, thus increasing the home’s market value.
Reducing Fire Hazards
  • Why It Matters: Faulty wiring is a leading cause of residential fires. Ensuring all electrical work is done correctly reduces the risk of an electrical fire.
  • Impact on Home Value: Homes with safe and reliable electrical systems are valued higher because buyers are willing to pay a premium for peace of mind and safety. Signs of electrical issues, such as dodgy wiring, blown plug sockets, or even electrical fire damage may put off potential buyers, or in the very least result in a low-ball offer.

If you’re interested in getting a safety assessment for your property, visit this page.

Enhancing Home Functionality and Efficiency
Upgrading Electrical Panels
  • Why It Matters: Older homes often have outdated electrical panels (aka fuse boxes, fuse boards, or circuit breakers) that cannot handle the load of modern appliances and electronics. Upgrading to a higher-capacity panel can prevent overloads and power outages. You should do this every 15 years at the very least.
  • Impact on Home Value: A new electrical panel increases a home’s capacity to support advanced technology and energy-efficient systems, making it more attractive to potential buyers. They’ll be able to imagine how easy it is to add smart home tech, or you can install some yourself to impress them and improve life while you’re still living in the property. 
Installing Energy-Efficient Lighting
  • Why It Matters: Energy-efficient lighting options, such as LED bulbs, reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.
  • Impact on Home Value: Energy efficiency is a major selling point. Homes with energy-efficient systems are more appealing to eco-conscious buyers and can sell for higher prices. The logic is that whilst the addition of these features may increase initial property value, lower bills save money in the long run.
Adding Additional Outlets and USB Ports
  • Why It Matters: Modern households have more electronic devices than ever. Additional outlets and USB (or USB-C) ports increase convenience and functionality. Handy when your phone, tablet, laptop, etc., is running out of battery!
  • Impact on Home Value: A home with ample outlets and charging ports is viewed as modern and well-equipped, which can enhance its value and appeal.

We can help your household with professional electrical installations big and small, whether you need a new fuse board, new lighting or anything else.

Integrating Smart Home Technology
Smart Lighting and Thermostats
  • Why It Matters: Smart home devices allow homeowners to control lighting, heating, and even cooling systems remotely, improving convenience and energy efficiency. It could be as simple as purchasing remote control plugs or smart lightbulbs. Or it could mean going all in and investing in fully integrated smart home systems.
  • Impact on Home Value: Homes with integrated smart technology are seen as cutting-edge and can attract tech-savvy buyers willing to pay more for these already installed features. Or at the very least, it can help them to see the potential the property has for smart capabilities.
Security Systems
  • Why It Matters: Smart security systems, including cameras and alarms that can be monitored remotely, enhance home security.
  • Impact on Home Value: Enhanced security features can significantly increase a home’s value by providing additional safety and peace of mind.
Smart Appliances and Home Automation
  • Why It Matters: Smart appliances and automation systems (such as smart fridges, ovens, and home assistants like Alexa) can streamline daily tasks and improve quality of life.
  • Impact on Home Value: These conveniences are attractive to buyers looking for a modern, tech-friendly home that will make daily living and general household tasks easier.
Additional Tips
Hire Professionals
  • Why It Matters: Proper installation and compliance with electrical standards are crucial for safety and effectiveness. By hiring experienced electricians, you’ll ensure that the work will be of a high quality and be performed quickly.
Plan for the Future
  • Why It Matters: Technology and electrical needs are continually evolving.
  • Tip: Consider potential future upgrades when planning electrical work. Install higher-capacity panels and extra conduits to accommodate future needs. You’ll be glad you did when your robot needs charging!
Regular Maintenance
  • Why It Matters: Regular checks and maintenance prevent issues from becoming major problems.
  • Tip: Schedule annual electrical inspections to keep your system in top condition, it could also help identify any potential upgrades.
Document All Upgrades
  • Why It Matters: Buyers appreciate detailed records of home improvements.
  • Tip: Keep a log of all electrical work and upgrades, including the costs and any warranties. Memorise this list of the improvements you’ve made and you or the estate agent can mention them as buyers are shown around.
Summary of Long-Term Benefits
Increased Safety

Safe electrical systems reduce the risk of accidents and ensure reliable power supply. A safer home provides peace of mind for both current residents and future buyers.

Higher Resale Value

Along with modern kitchens, bathrooms and a generally tidy home, well-maintained and modernised electrical systems are attractive to buyers.

Homes with updated electrical (and plumbing, heating, etc.) systems typically sell faster and at higher prices.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient systems reduce utility costs and environmental impact.

Lower energy bills and reduced carbon footprint make the home more appealing to eco-conscious buyers. They’ll see the higher house price as justified by the lower utility costs and efficiency in the long run.

Enhanced Comfort and Convenience

Modern electrical systems support a wide range of appliances and technologies that improve daily living. Enhanced functionality and comfort increase overall satisfaction with the home, which is a key factor in its long-term value.

Need Electrical Experts? Able Can Improve Your Home’s Value

From updating electrical panels and installing energy-efficient lighting to integrating smart home technology and ensuring compliance with safety standards, these improvements not only make your home more appealing to potential buyers but also enhance its overall functionality and reliability. 

By prioritising quality electrical work and regular maintenance, you can enjoy a safer, more efficient living environment while also boosting your home’s market value…

…And at Able, we specialise in 7 different trades, all of which can help boost your home’s comfort and value. Whether it’s electrical repairs and upgrades, plumbing work, installations and repairs for your windows, doors, and locks, or even pest control, just give us a call on 0330 108 4111.

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