Aluminium wiring was commonly used in homes in the 1970’s as well as in the 60’s due the high price of copper at the time. It was eliminated in Canada because of security issues with the wiring as well as the terminations and connectors utilized in the time this kind of wiring was introduced, because they were not designed for use with aluminum wiring.
The aluminum wire is now prohibited from being used in branch circuit wiring. Aluminum wire is a problem due to its tendency to oxidize which increases resistance, and can lead to burning and overheating.
In addition, connections that are not properly made with connectors or fittings that are not compatible could cause fire or overheating in addition. However, if properly maintained and checked aluminum wiring is secure.
It is easy to recognize aluminum wire because of its whiter hue (s. picture below) in contrast to the more orange-yellow-brown color in copper wiring (s. further below)
Sources: EnerGreen Home Inspection Services, Blue Crest Electric, B-Safe Electric, Ring Electric
Home Insurance Aluminum Wiring
For insurance companies, aluminum wiring can pose a higher risk. So, some insurance providers won’t insure homes that have aluminum wiring. Some insurers will only after having a thorough electrical inspection conducted by a qualified and certified electrician. Sometimes electrical changes and rewiring is required for insurance purposes the property. A different option is specialist insurers that underwrite more risky homes. In this instance, the costs tend to be higher.
Aluminum wiring is usually not an issue for condo owners since the majority of these units were constructed in the 1980’s and after. This is also evident in the the cost of insurance for condos that is generally lower than rates for house insurance.
Solutions For Aluminum Wire and Home Insurance:
Some insurance companies continue to cover homes that have aluminum wiring. In reality, if you can have an electrician licensed to visit and repair the wiring at their junction points, your home is considered to be secure. The industry of building knew that cutting each wire from the house was not feasible or cost effective for homeowners. Electricians today have the ability to change receptacles, switches, and wires connecting these to the electrical panel, as well as an electrical panels.
If a licensed electrician retrofitted their existing wiring with aluminum, they must be able provide an official certificate that proves the work was completed. This is the crucial aspect of insuring homes with aluminum wiring. Insurance companies that offer insurance to a house with wiring made of aluminum will require a certificate by a licensed electrician to verify that the house is in compliance with the latest electrical codes and safety standards.
The insurance of a house that has aluminum wiring isn’t difficult, but it does require some additional steps for homeowners. After they have received the electrical certificate by a licensed electrician homeowners still have to present the certificate to prove their house is secure. Your insurance agent or broker will utilize this certificate in order to try to secure insurance for you and your house. If you’re having issues protecting your home using aluminum wiring, please contact us right now so that we can help you ensure that your investment is adequately covered.
Q&A For Home Insurance Aluminum Wiring:
1. Will insurance companies insure homes with aluminum wiring?
The safety of aluminum wiring is based on its installation is in order. You must look for wiring made of aluminum inside your home prior to getting estimates for insurance on your home, however you should do so because the insurance provider will inquire about it for more in the event that it’s present.
2. Why do insurance companies not like aluminum wiring?
Why are insurance firms required to require replacement of the aluminum wiring in homes and condominiums? The reason is straightforward the reason is that it’s a risk to safety. This type of wire has a tendency to degrade over time at its junctions, causing overheating , as well as other fire-hazard problems.
3. Can you sell a house with aluminum wiring?
Is an aluminum wire illegal? Aluminum wiring isn’t illegal however it is not up to codes and homes are built using copper wiring. If you’re thinking of purchasing or selling a house that is wired with aluminum it is safe insofar as you follow the guidelines for dealing with it.
4. Does homeowner’s insurance cover electrical wiring?
Electrical wiring in residential homes is typically covered by homeowners insurance policies to cover electrical repairs and other damages. However, older houses with old wiring, such as knob and tube wiring or aluminum will likely make it more challenging to secure insurance coverage for and will cost more to insure.
5. When was aluminum wiring banned?
After 1972, the recipe used for aluminum wiring was changed to make it a more secure product. Aluminum wiring was utilized in homes with a single family for a short time after this, but it was removed at in the mid-’70s.
6. Should you replace aluminum wiring?
Even if, after 45 years you’ve not noticed any signs of trouble in your aluminum wiring It’s an ideal idea to get it fixed or replaced. The most obvious signs are flashing light bulbs, hot lights switches or outlets and dead circuits, or the smell of burned plastic.
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