Completed a full electrical upgrade on our 1908 Riverdale semi last year. Documenting here since reliable Toronto-specific cost info on K&T replacement is hard to find.
Starting point: Full knob-and-tube throughout, 60A fused panel in the basement, no grounding anywhere. Our insurer was dropping us unless we updated.
Scope of work:
- New 200A service entrance (trench + new meter base coordination with Toronto Hydro)
- New panel (24 circuit Eaton)
- Full rewire of main and second floor (keeping K&T only in the attic where it was dry and undisturbed — insurer accepted this approach)
- 12 new circuits including dedicated kitchen circuits for microwave, dishwasher, fridge
- All new outlets and switches
- ESA permit + two inspections
Total cost: $18,400 + HST. This was the middle of three quotes ($14,800 and $23,500 were the other two). ESA permit was $420.
Timeline: 8 working days spread over 3 weeks. We had power throughout — electrician switched rooms in sections.
Surprise cost: Toronto Hydro required an upgrade to the overhead service entrance conductor from street. Extra $1,200 that wasn’t in the original quote because no one knew until they were on the roof.
Feel free to ask questions. Electrical is one of those areas where bad info can be genuinely dangerous, so happy to share what we learned.