Buying a Home with Knob and Tube Wiring in Idaho: What You Should Know

If you're shopping for a home in Southeast Idaho and come across an older property with knob and tube wiring, it’s important to understand what this means for your investment.

While these systems were standard in the early 20th century, today they can pose safety, insurance, and resale challenges. Here's what every Idaho homebuyer needs to know before moving forward with a home that has this outdated electrical system.

What Is Knob and Tube Wiring?

Knob and tube wiring (K&T) is an early form of electrical wiring installed in homes from the 1880s through the 1940s. It uses ceramic knobs to anchor wires and tubes to protect them as they pass through wood framing. Unlike modern wiring, K&T has no ground wire and typically features cloth insulation, making it more vulnerable to deterioration and overheating over time.

Key Characteristics of K&T Wiring:

• Single-insulated wires separated by air

• No grounding, which increases shock risk

• Often outdated for today’s electrical loads

• High risk of damage from DIY upgrades or age-related wear

  
  

Is Knob and Tube Wiring Legal in Idaho?

Yes, it’s legal to have knob and tube wiring in Idaho if it’s still functioning safely and hasn’t been modified incorrectly. However, its presence often raises red flags during home inspections, especially if the wiring is brittle, overloaded, or has been altered.

While not illegal, many insurers and lenders in Idaho may refuse coverage or loans on properties with active K&T wiring unless it's upgraded or replaced.

Common Risks Associated with Knob and Tube Wiring

Over the years, K&T systems become less reliable and more dangerous. Here’s why Idaho buyers should be cautious:

1. Fire Hazard

The lack of a ground wire and aging insulation makes K&T wiring susceptible to overheating and sparking, especially when overloaded by modern appliances.

2. DIY Modifications

Many older homes in Idaho have had electrical work done without permits. Splicing new wires into old K&T can create significant fire and code violations.

3. Insurance and Financing Challenges

Home insurance companies often decline coverage or require costly rewiring. Some Idaho lenders may also withhold funding unless electrical upgrades are completed.

Home Inspection Tips for Knob and Tube Wiring

If you’re serious about buying a home with K&T wiring, a professional home inspection in Southeast Idaho is crucial. At Vantage Point Inspections, we perform a detailed assessment to determine the safety and condition of the system.

What We Check:

• Visible wire insulation wear or brittleness

• Spliced or unpermitted modifications

• Signs of overheating or burnt components

• Compatibility with updated electrical panels

  
  

We also recommend follow-up evaluations from licensed electricians if K&T is active and in use.

Should You Buy a Home with Knob and Tube Wiring?

It depends on your comfort level, budget, and long-term plans. Here are key considerations:

• Rewiring Costs: Expect to pay $8,000–$15,000+ depending on home size.

• Renovation Goals: If you're remodeling, it’s the perfect time to upgrade wiring.

• Negotiating Leverage: Use the presence of K&T as a bargaining chip during the offer process.

  
  

If you love the home and are prepared to make updates, K&T wiring doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker—but it does require diligence and planning.

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Buying an older home in Southeast Idaho? Don’t take chances. Book a home inspection with Vantage Point Inspections today to ensure the wiring and other systems are safe, code-compliant, and fully understood before you close the deal.

We specialize in identifying hidden risks in historic homes, and we’ll give you the confidence you need to make an informed decision.