Call 844-335-0814 and our service desk will connect you with an independent local electrician experienced with older and historic homes.
Wiring found in older homes
- Knob and tube wiring, with separate wires run on ceramic knobs and through tubes
- Cloth covered cable with brittle insulation
- Two prong outlets with no ground path
- Fuse boxes or very early breaker panels
- Decades of additions spliced into old circuits
Old wiring was not designed to be buried under modern attic insulation or to carry today's loads, which is why insurers and inspectors often ask about it.
Protecting plaster, trim and original details
Electricians who work on older homes plan routes through attics, crawl spaces, closets and baseboards to limit openings in plaster. Where walls must be opened, small, carefully placed access holes are easier to repair than long cuts. Original fixtures can often be rewired and reused, and period style switch plates and outlets are available.
Agree on who handles plaster repair and painting before the work starts.
Steps in a historic home rewire
- Call 844-335-0814 and tell us the age of the home and what wiring you have seen.
- We connect you with an independent electrician who works on older homes.
- The electrician surveys the attic, crawl space and panel and maps the existing circuits.
- A room by room plan and estimate are prepared, then permits are pulled.
- New wiring is installed and inspected, and old wiring is disconnected.
Is the home in a historic district?
Interior electrical work rarely needs design review, but exterior changes such as a new service mast, meter location or exterior lighting can be subject to rules in designated historic districts. Check with your city before planning exterior changes.
As with any contractor, confirm the electrician's license on the CSLB license check before you sign.
Living in the house during the work
Most historic rewires are done in phases so part of the house always has power. Ask for a schedule by room so you can plan around noise, dust and furniture moves.
Questions about Historic Home Rewiring
Is knob and tube wiring dangerous?
It is not automatically unsafe, but it lacks a ground, is often damaged or modified, and should not be covered by insulation. Most owners replace it.
Can original light fixtures be kept?
Often yes. Many vintage fixtures can be rewired and fitted with modern sockets and mounting hardware.