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Can I use my homeowners insurance to update my electrical wiring?
I purchased a home built in 1922. No one updated the wiring, so it's all knob and tube. It's a fire hazard based on its age. Can I submit a claim for the upgrades?
Emily Maracle · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“Unless a fire or other event damages your home and requires your electrical wiring to be updated, you wouldn’t be able to submit a claim to your insurance.
You were aware of the condition of your home and certified that on your insurance application. Similar to
car insurance
or health insurance, you aren’t able to claim damage for a pre-existing condition.Home insurance is also very specific about what is covered for electrical issues. Even if the damage was from the outdated wiring, your insurance may still deny the claim.
If you’re concerned about the damage it may cause, you should speak with your insurance company. While they likely won’t provide coverage, you can get a better idea of what is covered.
If the wiring is a safety hazard, you’ll also want to find an electrician as soon as possible. Addressing the issues will protect both you and your home. It will also ensure your home insurance does not cancel for lack of maintenance or neglect.
And if you’re wondering, the average cost of replacing knob and tube wiring in a two-story home is about $5,000 to $9,000.
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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