Do you own an older Seattle home with original wiring? Knob-and-tube wiring was common in Seattle homes built from roughly the 1900s through the 1940s, including many in Ballard, Capitol Hill, Wallingford, Queen Anne, Greenwood, and Beacon Hill. Here is what replacement involves and what to expect.
Why replace knob-and-tube wiring in Seattle
Knob-and-tube has no ground wire and was designed for far lower electrical loads than a modern home uses. Insulation placed around it, old splices, and overloaded circuits can create a fire risk. Many insurers also ask about it, and it can complicate a sale or a remodel.
Signs you may still have knob-and-tube
- Two-prong outlets throughout the house
- Porcelain knobs and tubes visible in the attic, basement, or crawlspace
- Cloth-covered wiring or a fuse box
- Flickering lights or breakers that trip often
How replacement works
- Free inspection and a fixed-price quote before any work starts
- New grounded wiring run through walls, attic, and crawlspace
- New or upgraded panel if needed, often 200 amps
- Permit and inspection through the City of Seattle
- Patch-ready access so your drywall work stays minimal
We are a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor (WA L&I #LEBROBC755MT). For typical costs and the process in detail, see our knob-and-tube replacement cost guide, and our panel upgrade options if your service needs updating.
Seattle knob-and-tube replacement FAQ
Is knob-and-tube wiring illegal in Seattle?
Existing wiring is not automatically illegal, but it cannot be extended or altered, and insurers may require replacement. We can assess your situation.
Do I have to replace all of it at once?
Not always. Some homeowners replace in phases. We will explain the options during the free inspection.
How long does a rewire take?
It depends on the size of the home and access. We will give you a timeline with your fixed quote.
Get a free, fixed quote in Seattle
See our Seattle electrician page or get in touch to schedule your free inspection.