Knob-and-Tube & Aluminum Wiring in BC: What Insurers Ask For - and How We Remediate Safely
- akaielectricltd
- Dec 13, 2025
- 4 min read
This 2025-2026 homeowner guide explains how insurers view knob-and-tube and aluminum wiring in British Columbia, why 60 amp services are a red flag, and what documentation they typically request. It also outlines safe remediation paths we use to satisfy underwriting and pass inspection.
Quick answer:
Many insurers flag live knob-and-tube, aluminum branch wiring, and 60 amp services as higher risk. You may face surcharges, coverage limits, or a requirement to upgrade to 100 amps or provide proof of remediation and inspection.
Typical asks include a licensed electrician’s inspection, photos or panel schedules, confirmation that no live knob-and-tube remains, and either full aluminum replacement or approved remediation methods.
The fastest path to insurability is usually a targeted rewire with panel or service upgrade to 100 amps or more, plus a clear inspection record.
If a full aluminum replacement is not feasible immediately, approved copper pigtailing and CO/ALR rated devices can be an interim step when installed and documented correctly.
👉 Plan a compliant rewire
👉 Get the paperwork your insurer needs
At-a-glance: how insurers look at older wiring and what to do
Insurer flag | What they often ask for | What to do at home | How we solve it |
Live knob-and-tube circuits | Remove or replace, licensed inspection report, photos, proof no live K&T remains | Identify all remaining K&T runs and junctions | Plan room-by-room rewiring, update panel schedules, provide inspection letter and photos |
Aluminum branch wiring (1960s–1970s) | Either full replacement or approved remediation; proof of CO/ALR devices or listed pigtails; inspection | Confirm device ratings, terminations, and any overheating | Replace aluminum with copper where feasible, or install listed copper pigtails and CO/ALR devices with torque records and labels |
60 amp service | Upgrade to at least 100 amps, or provide evidence of risk controls; inspection on completion | Review service size, connected loads, EV or heat pump plans | Upgrade service and panel to 100A or 200A with permits, then issue documentation for underwriting |
Evidence of overheating or DIY work | Immediate correction and follow-up inspection | Stop using affected circuits until corrected | Repair terminations, replace devices, document corrections and test results |
Who qualifies in 2026
Buyers and owners seeking to bind or renew home insurance on older BC houses.
Homes with known or suspected knob-and-tube circuits, aluminum branch wiring, or 60 amp services.
Properties adding EV chargers, heat pumps, or suites that want underwriting confidence before upgrades.
Dates, deadlines, and coordination tips
Many insurers set a remediation window at binding or renewal. Get a firm list of requirements in writing before work starts.
Always use a permit and schedule inspections. Insurers often request proof of final inspection or an electrician’s letter.
If you are selling or buying, plan remediation and the 100A upgrade early so financing and insurance are not delayed.
Stacking and special cases
Partial rewires. If you cannot complete a full rewire immediately, insurers may accept a staged plan when supported by permits, interim remediation, and scheduled follow-ups.
Aluminum remediation. Where full replacement is deferred, listed copper pigtails and CO/ALR devices can satisfy many underwriting checklists when installed by a licensed contractor and documented.
Panels and service size. Upgrading to 100A or 200A often reduces premiums and makes future loads like EVs and heat pumps straightforward for underwriting.
How to proceed in 3 steps
For homeowners
Book an inspection and documentation package for underwriting.
Choose the remediation path: complete rewire now, or staged plan with interim aluminum remediation and targeted K&T removal.
If required, upgrade to 100A or 200A service and provide final inspection records to your broker.
For buyers and sellers
Include electrical scope in subject removal timelines.
Obtain quotes for rewire and service upgrades along with the inspection report.
Close with a clear plan: what is done now, and what is scheduled with permits.
Frequently asked questions
Will any insurer cover a house with live knob-and-tube?
Some specialty markets will, but many standard insurers either decline or surcharge. Most will require removal of live K&T within a set timeline or proof it has already been replaced.
Can aluminum wiring be made acceptable without a full rewire?
Often yes. Approved copper pigtailing methods and CO/ALR rated devices can be an interim solution if installed and documented properly. Many owners still choose full copper replacement during renovations.
Do I have to upgrade from 60A to 100A for insurance?
In many cases yes. Insurers frequently require at least 100A service for modern loads. A service upgrade also improves resale and future-proofs for EVs or heat pumps.
What paperwork does my insurer want to see?
Typically a licensed electrician’s inspection report, permit and final inspection proof, photos or panel schedules, and a letter confirming no live K&T remains and detailing any aluminum remediation or service upgrade.
Make it easy with Akai Electric
We rewire homes, remediate aluminum safely, and complete service upgrades with permits and inspections across the Lower Mainland. Our team packages the documentation your insurer and lender expect.
Get a same-week insurance inspection
Plan a compliant rewire
Sources
Topic or claim | Official source |
Insurer concerns about knob-and-tube, aluminum wiring, and 60 amp services as higher risk | |
IBC note that homes with 60 amp service may be ineligible or surcharged, and upgrades to at least 100 amps are often required | |
BCAA guidance that older wiring types and low amperage can result in a surcharge, and electrical inspections can reduce costs | |
General guidance that some insurers will allow time to replace knob-and-tube or accept coverage after inspection | |
Technical Safety BC guidance on aluminum wiring and using proper devices and methods, with permits and qualified installers | |
TSBC electrical assessments and inspection stages to document compliance |
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