Knob and tube wiring is a common feature in older homes, but many homeowners might be unaware of its presence in their Toronto homes or the risks it poses. This outdated wiring system, sometimes referred to as knob and tube electrical, creates potential safety hazards. Additionally, many insurance companies could deny claims if knob and tube wiring is found in your home, making it critical to address this issue promptly.
Why Knob and Tube Wiring Often Goes Undetected
Most homeowners rely on their home inspection report to determine if their property has knob and tube wiring. However, home inspectors are limited in what they can access. While they might examine the wiring visible at the electrical panel or remove a cover plate to inspect a knob and tube wiring outlet, they cannot see the wiring tube hidden behind the walls. This limited view can leave homeowners unaware of the extent of knob and tube electrical systems in their home.
The Hidden Dangers of Renovated Homes
Even homes that appear modern may still contain knob and tube wiring behind the walls. In our experience, older properties that have undergone renovations—whether completed decades ago by contractors following outdated codes or by DIY enthusiasts—are particularly likely to retain knob and tube electrical.
For example, a switch or an outlet in a home can appear modern. Initial checks could even show newer wiring at the point of initial connection. However, once we start gutting the space, we often uncover significant issues with knob and tube wiring behind the wall.
Modern wiring can be spliced into knob and tube wiring without using proper junction boxes or connectors. In these cases, we often find electrical tape has been used as the only safeguard, leaving the wiring tube unsecured and dangerously exposed within the wall cavity.
Knob and Tube Electrical Issues Throughout East York Homes
Further inspection into many older homes in the Toronto communities of East York, Riverdale, Beaches, Leslieville, and the Danforth have revealed that circuits supplying common areas like bathrooms or kitchens can be entirely connected to knob and tube electrical systems. Despite modern-looking fixtures and outlets, these homes are not up to code.
Another common way to check is in the basement. Sometimes, the electrical panel can indicate problems. Wires feeding into the panel being cloth-covered can be a strong indication of knob and tube wiring. Other common issues we’ve encountered include:
- Knob and Tube Wiring Outlets: Many outlets that appear modern are connected to knob and tube systems, often with unsafe splices.
- Switches: Wiring tubes spliced into switches with nothing but electrical tape securing them.
- Ceiling Fixtures: Modern wiring connected to knob and tube without proper safety measures in place.
Knob and Tube Replacement Costs
Many homeowners are surprised to discover how extensive knob and tube electrical systems are in their homes. Even minor renovations often reveal more knob and tube wiring than expected. It’s important to note that knob and tube replacement costs can vary significantly depending on the extent of the wiring in your home. Replacing these outdated systems is essential for safety, code compliance, and insurance purposes.
A Recent Example of Knob and Tube Electrical Issues
To illustrate the risks of knob and tube wiring, our team documented a recent project where extensive wiring tube issues were uncovered. In the video below, Jim highlights how seemingly minor updates masked significant underlying problems with knob and tube electrical systems.
By addressing these issues during renovations, you can ensure your home is safe, up to code, and insurable. If you suspect your home has knob and tube wiring, consult with a licensed electrician to assess the extent of the system and discuss knob and tube replacement costs. Taking proactive steps now will protect your investment and bring peace of mind.
Watch our YouTube short on How To Detect Knob and Tube Wiring In Your House:
