Knob & Tube Inspections

Why Do You Need a Knob and Tube Inspection?

Many early-1900s homes contain active Knob & Tube wiring. It's a 100-year-old electrical system designed to hang in open air so heat can dissipate safely. When insulation is installed around energized Knob & Tube, that heat becomes trapped and creates a serious fire hazard. For that reason, Mass Save and insulation contractors require a licensed electrician who is familiar with Knob & Tube to confirm no active wiring remains before insulation can proceed.

Kuhlman Electric™ specializes in all things related to residential Knob & Tube wiring. As a Mass Save partner we have performed thousands of inspections. Please note: If active wiring is found, we provide clear, practical solutions for its safe removal and replacement.

Most Knob & Tube inspections take place because a homeowner wants to insulate, and improving your energy efficiency is important. But Kuhlman Electric’s™ ultimate priority is protecting your home and ensuring your family’s safety. Schedule a professional inspection with Kuhlman Electric™ today.
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Fire Prevention & Safety
Knob & Tube wiring often has hidden splices, worn outer insulation, and the circuit is overloaded. These increase the risk of fire. Kuhlman™ identifies these potential hazards and offers a permanent solution.
Selling Your Home
Knob & Tube always raises a red flag during buyer inspections. Identifying and addressing unsafe wiring early prevents delays, price reductions, or last-minute negotiations at the closing.
Buying an Older Home
A professional electrical inspection gives buyers clarity on the safety of the electrical system, possible insurance implications, and the cost to upgrade, before committing to a purchase.
Homeowners Insurance
Many carriers restrict or surcharge homes with active Knob & Tube wiring. Documentation from a licensed electrician may be required for new coverage, or maintaining existing coverage.
Peace of Mind
You want to know the wiring behind your walls is safe. Knowing you don't have any active Knob & Tube wiring, or taking steps to address it if you do, is a proactive step that erases any uncertainty.

INSPECTION PROCESS
- Inspect Panel: Pull breaker or fuse panel cover to identify any circuits fed by active Knob & Tube
- Isolate Circuits: Check which breakers or fuses control suspected K&T circuits and de-energize them.
- Trace Exposed Runs: Inspect accessible areas to locate original K&T conductors and confirm routing.
- Voltage Test: Use professional equipment to verify visible Knob & Tube wiring is, or is not energized.
- Inspect Outlets & Fixtures: Inspect every outlet, switch, and fixture for connection to K&T wiring.
- Documents: Provide written verification confirming active Knob & Tube wiring is, or is not, present.
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INSPECTION FAQS
- Inspection fee: Knob & Tube Inspections follow the Mass Save program's set price of $250 per unit.
- Rebates: Depending on your utility provider, the cost of the inspection can sometimes be rebated.
- How long do inspections last: 2-to-4 hours, depending on the size of your home
- If no active knob & tube: We sign the Mass Save form to certify your home is free of Knob & Tube.
- If active knob & tube is found: We inform you of its condition, and provide options to replace it.
- Do you have to replace it: There is no law or regulation that says you have to replace Knob & Tube.
- Should you replace it: Yes. 100 year-old insulation with no ground wire, is unsafe.
- Where to look for It: Look for white porcelain knobs & tubes in unfinished basements & attics.
- How to tell it's active: Carefully use a non-contact voltage tester, or call Kuhlman Electric™