If you’re a homeowner in Exeter or the surrounding area and your fuse box is looking a bit outdated — or maybe you’ve been told during an EICR that it needs replacing — you’re probably wondering:
“How much does it actually cost to replace a consumer unit in 2025?”
You’re not alone. At EPM, we’re asked this all the time. So we’re breaking it all down — costs, what’s involved, and what to watch out for.
First, What Is a Consumer Unit?
It’s the modern replacement for the old-style fuse box. Your consumer unit is the hub that controls and protects your home’s electrical circuits. It contains miniature circuit breakers (MCBs), residual current devices (RCDs), and now often an SPD (surge protection device).
If your home still has rewireable fuses, or lacks proper RCD protection, it’s probably time to upgrade.
So, What Does a New Consumer Unit Cost in 2025?
For most average UK homes, replacing a consumer unit in 2025 will cost:
| Property Type | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1-2 Bed Flat/House | £450 – £650 |
| 3-Bed Home | £650 – £850 |
| 4-Bed+ Property | £850 – £1,100+ |
This usually includes:
A new 10–12 way metal-clad unit (fully compliant with latest regs)
RCDs or RCBOs
SPD (surge protection device)
Full testing and certification
Notifying building control (Part P compliance)
As always, your final estimate will depend on a few things like access, number of circuits, and any unexpected wiring issues.
Don’t Be Fooled by Super-Cheap Prices
We’ve seen adverts offering consumer unit swaps for £350 or less. And we’ve also seen the aftermath — dodgy installations, zero testing, and homeowners left in breach of regulations.
If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. We’ve walked into homes where brand new boards were installed badly, often with poorly labelled circuits or no paperwork at all. One job had circuits doubled-up and overloaded — something a proper electrician simply wouldn’t sign off.
When it comes to your electrics, safety has to come first.
Signs You Might Need a New Consumer Unit
You still have an old fuse box (with wire fuses)
There’s no RCD protection
Your consumer unit is plastic (metal-clad is now standard)
You’ve had electrical issues flagged in an EICR
You’re upgrading your kitchen, bathroom or adding new circuits
And sometimes? People just want peace of mind that their home is properly protected.
How Long Does It Take to Replace?
Typically, 4 to 8 hours depending on the number of circuits and access. We usually complete the job in a day, with minimal disruption. You may be without power for a few hours, but we’ll always keep you informed.
Afterward, we carry out full testing on every circuit and provide the necessary paperwork for your records — and for building regs.
Choose a Qualified Professional
In the UK, consumer unit replacement must be done by a registered electrician. It’s not a DIY job.
We’re fully qualified, Part P registered, and insured — and we always test everything properly. You’ll get:
A full Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)
Notification to building control
Peace of mind your home is safe and compliant
Final Thoughts from EPM
Upgrading your consumer unit isn’t the most glamorous home improvement — but it’s one of the most important. It protects your home, your family, and your investment.
If you’re not sure whether you need a replacement, we’re happy to carry out a quick check or an EICR to give you a clear answer.
Give us a call — or fill out an online form — and we’ll talk it through with zero pressure.
