Wylex was the biggest UK fuse-board brand from the 1960s through the 90s. There are still tens of thousands of them working across Leeds. Some are fine. Others are past their safe life. Here is how to tell which is which.
The two main Wylex boards you will see
Rewireable Wylex (all ceramic)
These have removable ceramic fuse holders with a strand of fuse wire inside. Common in pre-1980 installs. They do not have RCD protection and they take too long to disconnect under a modern fault. Replacement is due whenever it is convenient.
Wylex Standard Range (plastic MCBs)
Introduced in the mid-80s and used up to the early 2000s. Plastic-fronted board with black or grey MCBs (mini circuit breakers). Better than rewireable, but still no RCD on most, and the plastic degrades and yellows over time.
When to replace
- Any rewireable board: replace this year
- Standard Range over 25 years old: replace within 3 years
- Standard Range under 25 years and passing an EICR: leave, monitor
What you upgrade to
A modern replacement board fits in the same footprint, so there is no chasing or plaster work required. You get individual RCBO protection on every circuit, surge protection built in, and full compliance with the current wiring regulations.
Cost in Leeds in 2026
- Standard 8-way RCBO board: £695 fully fitted
- 10 to 12-way for larger homes: £795 to £850
- 16-way for HMOs and 4-bed detached: £900+
Includes all parts, labour, testing, certificate, and Part P notification to Leeds City Council.
Timeline for the job
3 to 5 hours on the day. Power off for about 2 hours. We work morning slots wherever possible so the household is back up by lunch.