Home Rewiring Cost in Ottawa: Warning Signs You Need It

Is your Ottawa home showing signs of electrical trouble? Flickering lights, warm outlets, or a fuse box that belongs in a museum could mean it’s time for a home rewire. For homeowners in Ottawa, Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, and Nepean, understanding the cost to rewire a house—and knowing when it’s truly necessary—can save you from electrical fires, insurance headaches, and costly emergency repairs.

In this guide, we break down everything Ottawa homeowners need to know about home rewiring: the warning signs, typical costs, what affects pricing, and why hiring a licensed electrician matters.

What You’ll Learn

What Is Home Rewiring?
10 Warning Signs Your Ottawa Home Needs Rewiring
Home Rewiring Cost in Ottawa: 2026 Pricing
What Affects the Cost to Rewire a House?
Aluminum Wiring Replacement in Ottawa
Knob-and-Tube Wiring: Is It Safe?
The Rewiring Process: What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Home Rewiring?

Home rewiring involves replacing the electrical wiring throughout your house with modern, code-compliant materials. This typically includes removing outdated wiring (such as aluminum or knob-and-tube), installing new copper wiring, upgrading outlets and switches, and often upgrading your electrical panel to handle modern electrical demands.

Most homes in Ottawa built before 1980 may have wiring that doesn’t meet current Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC) standards. While older wiring isn’t automatically dangerous, it often can’t safely support today’s electrical loads—from EV chargers and home offices to air conditioning and modern appliances.

When Was Your Ottawa Home Built?

Pre-1950: May have knob-and-tube wiring—rewiring strongly recommended
1965-1975: Likely has aluminum wiring—requires inspection and possible replacement
1975-1990: Early copper wiring—may need updating for modern electrical loads
Post-1990: Usually adequate, but homes 30+ years old should be inspected

10 Warning Signs Your Ottawa Home Needs Rewiring

Your home’s electrical system often gives warning signs before serious problems occur. If you notice any of these issues, contact a licensed electrician in Ottawa for an inspection:

1. Flickering or Dimming Lights

Occasional flickers when large appliances start up can be normal. However, persistent flickering—especially when you’re not using high-draw appliances—often indicates loose connections, overloaded circuits, or deteriorating wiring that can’t deliver consistent power.

2. Warm or Discolored Outlets

Outlets and switch plates should never feel warm to the touch. Heat buildup indicates dangerous electrical resistance, which can lead to fires. Scorch marks or discoloration around outlets are serious red flags requiring immediate attention.

3. Burning Smell

If you smell something burning near outlets, switches, or your electrical panel—and you’re not cooking—this is an emergency. Turn off the power at the breaker and call an electrician immediately. This could indicate melting wire insulation or an electrical fire starting inside your walls.

4. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

Circuit breakers are designed to trip when circuits are overloaded, protecting your home from fires. If your breakers trip frequently, your wiring system likely can’t handle your electrical demands. This is especially common in older Ottawa homes that weren’t designed for modern appliances, home offices, and EV chargers.

5. Buzzing or Crackling Sounds

Electricity should flow silently. Buzzing, humming, or crackling sounds from outlets, switches, or behind walls indicate loose connections, faulty wiring, or arcing—all serious fire hazards.

6. Electrical Shocks When Touching Appliances

Feeling a mild shock or tingle when plugging in appliances or touching switches indicates grounding problems or faulty wiring. This is dangerous and should be investigated promptly.

7. Two-Prong (Ungrounded) Outlets

If your home still has two-prong outlets, your wiring system lacks proper grounding. Modern three-prong outlets provide essential protection against electrical shock. Upgrading requires rewiring to add ground wires throughout your home.

8. Reliance on Extension Cords and Power Strips

Constantly using extension cords because you don’t have enough outlets is a sign your electrical system is outdated. Overloading extension cords and power strips increases fire risk and indicates your home needs more circuits and outlet installations.

9. Your Home Is Over 40 Years Old

Electrical wiring has a typical lifespan of 50-70 years, but insulation deteriorates over time. If your Ottawa home was built before 1985 and has never been rewired, it’s wise to have a professional electrical inspection to assess the wiring condition.

10. You Have Aluminum or Knob-and-Tube Wiring

These outdated wiring types pose significantly higher fire risks than modern copper wiring. Insurance companies in Ottawa often require homes with aluminum wiring to be inspected, repaired, or rewired before issuing or renewing policies.

Home Rewiring Cost in Ottawa: 2026 Pricing Guide

The cost to rewire a house in Ottawa varies significantly based on your home’s size, age, accessibility, and the scope of work required. Here’s what Ottawa homeowners can expect:

Average Home Rewiring Costs in Ottawa

Home Size	Typical Cost Range	Notes
Small home (under 1,000 sq ft)	$3,000 – $6,000	Bungalows, condos, small townhomes
Medium home (1,000-2,000 sq ft)	$6,000 – $10,000	Most Ottawa single-family homes
Large home (2,000-3,000 sq ft)	$10,000 – $15,000	Larger homes, multi-story
Very large or complex homes	$15,000 – $25,000+	Heritage homes, custom builds

Cost Per Square Foot

As a general guideline, rewiring costs in Ottawa typically range from $6 to $12 per square foot. Older homes with difficult access or outdated wiring systems (like knob-and-tube) tend toward the higher end.

What’s Included in a Typical Rewiring Quote?

Removal of old wiring
Installation of new copper NM-B (Romex) wiring
New outlets, switches, and cover plates
GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas
ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) permits and inspection fees
Basic wall patching (drywall repair may be extra)

Additional Costs to Consider

Electrical panel upgrade: $1,500 – $3,500 (often required with rewiring)
Drywall repair and painting: $500 – $2,000+
Adding circuits for EV chargers or hot tubs: $500 – $1,500 per circuit
Upgrading to 200-amp service: $2,000 – $4,000

What Affects the Cost to Rewire a House in Ottawa?

Several factors influence your final rewiring cost:

1. Home Size and Layout

Larger homes require more wiring, outlets, and labor hours. Multi-story homes typically cost more than single-story bungalows due to the complexity of running wires between floors.

2. Accessibility

Homes with unfinished basements, accessible attics, or open wall cavities are easier (and cheaper) to rewire. If walls need to be opened extensively, costs increase due to additional labor and drywall repairs.

3. Type of Existing Wiring

Removing knob-and-tube wiring or aluminum wiring requires more care and time than updating newer copper systems. These older wiring types can add 15-25% to the total cost.

4. Electrical Panel Condition

Many rewiring projects require a panel upgrade to handle increased electrical capacity. If your home still has a fuse box or a 60-100 amp panel, upgrading to a modern 200-amp breaker panel is typically recommended.

5. Number of Circuits and Outlets

Modern electrical codes require more outlets than older homes typically have. Adding circuits for dedicated appliances (like ranges, dryers, or EV chargers) increases material and labor costs.

6. Permits and Inspections

All electrical work in Ontario requires ESA permits. Permit costs typically range from $200-$500 depending on the scope of work. Your licensed electrician should handle permit applications and schedule inspections.

Aluminum Wiring Replacement in Ottawa

Homes built in Ottawa between roughly 1965 and 1975 often contain aluminum wiring, which was used as a cheaper alternative to copper during a period of high copper prices. While aluminum wiring isn’t inherently dangerous, it presents significant risks that Ottawa homeowners should understand.

Why Is Aluminum Wiring a Concern?

Expansion and contraction: Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper when heated, causing connections to loosen over time
Oxidation: Aluminum oxidizes when exposed to air, creating resistance that generates heat
Incompatibility: Many outlets and switches aren’t rated for aluminum connections
Fire risk: Studies suggest homes with aluminum wiring may be up to 55 times more likely to have fire-hazard conditions at outlets

Aluminum Wiring Solutions and Costs

Solution	Typical Cost	What It Involves
COPALUM Crimping	$50 – $80 per connection	Special crimp connectors join copper pigtails to aluminum wiring
AlumiConn Connectors	$30 – $50 per connection	Approved set-screw connectors rated for aluminum-to-copper
Full Pigtailing	$2,000 – $4,000 (whole house)	Copper pigtails added to all outlets, switches, and fixtures
Complete Rewiring	$10,000 – $20,000+	Full replacement of aluminum wiring with copper

Insurance and Aluminum Wiring in Ottawa

Many insurance companies in Ottawa require a certified electrical inspection before insuring homes with aluminum wiring. Some insurers may require repairs (like pigtailing) or charge higher premiums. Having documentation of proper aluminum wiring remediation can help secure better insurance rates.

Knob-and-Tube Wiring: Is It Safe?

Knob-and-tube (K&T) wiring was standard in Ottawa homes built before the 1950s. This system uses ceramic knobs to hold wires away from framing and ceramic tubes to protect wires passing through studs and joists.

Risks of Knob-and-Tube Wiring

No ground wire: K&T systems only have hot and neutral wires, providing no shock protection
Insulation concerns: Modern blown-in insulation can cause K&T wiring to overheat
Deteriorating insulation: The rubber insulation on K&T wiring becomes brittle and cracks with age
Limited capacity: K&T circuits typically can’t safely handle modern electrical loads
Modified systems: Many K&T systems have been improperly modified over the decades, creating hidden hazards

Knob-and-Tube Rewiring Cost in Ottawa

Replacing knob-and-tube wiring typically costs $8,000 to $15,000+ for a typical Ottawa home, depending on size and accessibility. Due to the complete replacement required, K&T rewiring projects often cost more than other rewiring jobs.

If your Ottawa home has knob-and-tube wiring, we strongly recommend a professional electrical inspection to assess its condition and discuss replacement options.

The Rewiring Process: What Ottawa Homeowners Can Expect

Understanding the rewiring process helps you prepare and ensures the project goes smoothly:

Step 1: Initial Assessment and Quote

A licensed electrician will inspect your home, assess the existing wiring, discuss your electrical needs, and provide a detailed written quote. This typically takes 1-2 hours and should be free.

Step 2: ESA Permit Application

Your electrician submits permit applications to the Electrical Safety Authority. All electrical work in Ontario must be permitted and inspected. Never hire an electrician who suggests skipping permits.

Step 3: Planning and Preparation

The electrician plans wire routes, identifies where walls may need to be opened, and schedules the work. You may need to clear areas around the electrical panel and outlets.

Step 4: Wiring Installation

Electricians remove old wiring and install new copper wiring throughout the home. Depending on accessibility, this may involve opening walls, fishing wires through existing cavities, or working through the attic and basement.

Step 5: Outlet and Switch Installation

New outlets, switches, and cover plates are installed. This includes GFCI outlets in required locations (bathrooms, kitchens, outdoors, garages).

Step 6: Panel Connection

All new circuits are connected to your electrical panel. If a panel upgrade is included, the new panel is installed and connected to your Hydro Ottawa service.

Step 7: ESA Inspection

An ESA inspector verifies all work meets Ontario Electrical Safety Code requirements. This inspection is mandatory before the project is considered complete.

Step 8: Wall Repairs and Finishing

Any wall openings are patched and repaired. Depending on your arrangement, this may be handled by the electrician or a separate contractor.

Timeline

Small home: 3-5 days
Medium home: 5-7 days
Large or complex home: 1-2 weeks

Note: You can typically remain in your home during rewiring, though power may be off in sections during work hours.

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Rewiring in Ottawa

How much does it cost to rewire a house in Ottawa?

The cost to rewire a house in Ottawa typically ranges from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the home’s size, age, and accessibility. A small bungalow may cost $3,000-$6,000, while a larger two-story home can cost $10,000-$15,000. Homes with knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring often cost more due to the complexity of removal.

How do I know if my Ottawa home needs rewiring?

Common signs your home needs rewiring include: flickering or dimming lights, warm or discolored outlets, burning smells near electrical fixtures, frequent circuit breaker trips, buzzing sounds from outlets, electrical shocks when touching switches, two-prong (ungrounded) outlets, and reliance on extension cords. Homes over 40 years old or those with aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring should have a professional electrical inspection.

Can a house be rewired without removing drywall?

In many cases, yes. Experienced electricians can often “fish” new wires through existing wall cavities, attics, and basements with minimal drywall removal. However, some wall access is typically required, especially in older homes or for complete rewiring projects. Your electrician will explain what’s needed during the initial assessment.

Do I need a permit to rewire my house in Ontario?

Yes. All electrical work in Ontario requires a permit from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). Your licensed electrician should handle the permit application and schedule the required inspection. Never hire an electrician who suggests working without permits—unpermitted work can void your insurance and create serious problems when selling your home.

Is aluminum wiring dangerous?

Aluminum wiring itself isn’t inherently dangerous, but it requires special care. The connections where aluminum meets devices (outlets, switches, fixtures) can become loose over time, creating fire hazards. Solutions include COPALUM crimping, approved aluminum-rated connectors, or complete replacement with copper wiring. Many Ottawa insurance companies require inspection or remediation of aluminum wiring.

How long does it take to rewire a house?

A typical home rewiring project takes 3-7 days for most Ottawa homes. Smaller homes or partial rewiring may take 2-3 days, while larger or more complex homes can take 1-2 weeks. Factors affecting timeline include home size, accessibility of wiring routes, extent of wall repairs needed, and whether a panel upgrade is included.

Can I live in my house while it’s being rewired?

Yes, in most cases you can stay in your home during rewiring. Power may be shut off to sections of the house during work hours, but electricians typically restore power by evening. There will be some disruption and dust, so you may want to plan around particularly busy days or make arrangements if you have young children or work from home.

Will rewiring my house increase its value?

Yes, updated electrical wiring can increase your home’s value and marketability. Modern wiring with adequate capacity, grounded outlets, and an updated panel is attractive to buyers and eliminates a common concern during home inspections. Rewiring also allows you to add modern conveniences like EV charger circuits, home office power, and smart home systems.

Need a Home Rewiring Quote in Ottawa?

If you’ve noticed any warning signs of faulty wiring, or if your Ottawa home is due for an electrical assessment, our licensed electricians can help. We provide honest evaluations, transparent pricing, and professional workmanship backed by guaranteed labour and ESA-certified installations.

Ottawa Electric Service provides:

Free estimates and honest assessments
Licensed, insured, and ESA-certified electricians
Service throughout Ottawa, Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, and Nepean
All permits and inspections handled for you
Guaranteed workmanship and warrantied parts

Call us at (613) 518-5010 or request a free quote online to discuss your home’s wiring needs.

Related Electrical Services in Ottawa

Electrical Panel Upgrades
Electrical Safety Inspections
Residential Wiring Services
Electrical Repair Services
Outlet & Switch Installation
EV Charger Installation

Note: All prices mentioned in this article are provided for general reference and informational purposes only. These prices are not fixed and may vary depending on facts, market conditions, location, time, availability, or other relevant factors. Actual prices may change without prior notice. Readers are advised to verify details independently before making any decisions.

Home Rewiring Cost in Ottawa: Signs You Need It [2026]