Most people associate knob and tube wiring with very old homes, but in actual fact, this type of wiring was still used in homes up until 1950, and even in some areas through the 1960’s. If you do find yourself in a home that does have this type of wiring or you’re interested in buying a home that has older wiring, you’ll likely be wondering about knob and tube wiring insurance.

While it may be possible to get insurance for a Toronto home with older wiring, it won’t necessarily be easy, and it most cases the right thing to do would be to update the wiring. To start, reach out to a certified electrician, like Langstaff & Sloan, for recommendations and details on how your home’s electrical can be rewired in a safe and timely manner.

The Risks Insurance Companies Associate with Knob and Tube Wiring

The main reason that insurance companies don’t want to issue knob and tube wiring insurance to home owners is because of the increased risk of fire. Not only does it pose a threat to the home itself, but also presents a greater potential for personal injury or death.

More specifically, insurance companies are wary of the following characteristics of knob & tube wiring:

It’s not a grounded system, making shock hazards more likely.
It only provides two-prong outlets as opposed to three-pronged.
It predates temperature ratings of wires.
It is a free air wiring system. Most homes have insulation now.

At one time, if a home with older wiring was on circuit breakers and not fuses, you may have been able to get knob and tube wiring insurance, but more and more that’s no longer the case. For those home owners that can find insurance to include their outdated wiring, chances are the premiums will be significantly higher, often as much as three times as much. In the end, it likely makes more sense to complete an electrical rewire.

Knob and Tube Wiring Replacement in Toronto

It can be overwhelming to be deal with knob and tube electrical wiring. No one wants to worry about the safety of their home or stress about finding proper insurance. If you’re interested in finding out more about electrical rewiring, contact Langstaff & Sloan. We’ve been a leading expert in electrical rewiring since 1996 across Toronto & the GTA and we’d be happy to speak with you to answer any questions you may have. Our team can provide a written, detailed quote which includes an itemized list of costs designed to help you make the right choice for your needs. Call 647 492-8193 to get started.