Since 1900, Canadian housing has rapidly evolved. Have you considered the era in which your home was built? Different housing eras come with varying risks and vulnerabilities.
Knowing your home’s history can help you prepare for potential challenges and projects. Read on to learn about your home’s top risks according to its building era, and what you can do about them.
Pre-war era (1900 to 1945)
Main concerns:
1. Knob and tube wiring
Knob and tube wiring, made from copper, was commonly used in pre-war homes for electric wiring. The wiring runs through porcelain (ceramic) knobs to protect and hold down the wires and tubes.
This system does not have a ground wire, which serves an important role in preventing shock. Its rubberized cloth can deteriorate with age, exposing the wire.
Risks:
Knob and tube wiring may increase the risk of fire and electric shock.
What to do:
If you suspect your home has knob and tube wiring, the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) recommends hiring “a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) to do an assessment of your home’s electrical system.” An LEC knows the signs of knob and tube wiring risks, such as damage or deterioration, and may recommend replacing the wiring for safety. If knob and tube wiring is confirmed, contact your insurance representative to advise them of the wiring type. Some carriers may require an updated ESA certificate to maintain coverage.
2. Lead or galvanized steel pipes
Pipes made of lead – a toxic material – were commonly used in pre-war homes because the material is flexible and resistant to corrosion. Galvanized steel uses a zinc coating, which can corrode and pollute the water.
Risks:
Lead pipes are more likely to leak and crack, causing water damage. Similarly, galvanized steel begins to corrode from the inside out, causing leaks.
If lead or the zinc coating dissolves into the water as it flows through the pipe, the water can become contaminated.
What to do:
If your water service line is greyish-black and scratches easily, it may be made of lead. Galvanized steel has a silvery-gray metallic appearance. Contact your municipality, as they may offer free water testing and have a lead pipe replacement program. If lead is confirmed, contact your insurer to find out if replacing the affected pipes qualifies you for premium discounts, credits or other incentives. Many insurers reward risk-reducing upgrades such as swapping out lead plumbing. In the meantime, follow Health Canada’s recommendations to limit lead exposure. Contact a qualified professional to inspect your pipes and discuss options. Consider upgrading to copper or plastic plumbing, which can help you reduce the cost of insuring your home.
3. Poor insulation
In the pre-war era, insulation options were limited. Insulation commonly included materials such as sawdust, seaweed, newspaper, wood chips and animal wool. These materials are loose fill and have minimal effective insulation value – especially as they compact over time.
Risks:
Severe weather can cause structural damage.
Melting snow on roofs can create ice dams, leading to water damage and mold.
Poor insulation can cause outside moisture to accumulate, leading to rot.
What to do:
Consider upgrading your insulation. Natural Resources Canada has more information on the different types of insulation and wall construction in Canadian homes.
Post-war era (1945 to 1960)
Main concerns:
1. Moisture damage in wood-framed homes
Following World War II, houses were mass produced to meet the demand of returning soldiers and their growing families. This housing expansion prioritized speed over quality and led to inconsistent construction standards.
Risks:
Many homes were built with wood frames, and when paired with inconsistent construction standards, this increases the risk of moisture-related issues such as rot and termite damage.
The quality of construction and material were varied leading to issues with durability and longevity.
What to do:
If your home was built in this era, it may have a wood frame and be prone to moisture problems. Keep your home dry and well-ventilated to prevent structural damage. The IN Focus article, Choosing the right contractor after a flood or water damage loss outlines the steps to follow once damage occurs.
2. Outdated waterproofing systems
Many homes built in this era lack modern waterproofing technology, such as backflow valves, sump pumps and smart leak detectors.
Risks:
Water can enter through foundation cracks.
Older pumping systems are prone to leaks, especially during extreme weather changes.
What to do:
The Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction (ICLR) has tips to keep water out of your basement. If your basement does flood, turn off electricity at the breaker panel, only if you can reach it safely without touching water to avoid electric shock. Turning off electricity will prevent electric shock and reduce the risk of a fire. Contact your insurance provider and document all the damage from the flood. Here are some additional tips to help you protect your home from water damage.
3. 60-amp electrical service
A 60-amp electrical service was commonly installed in this era, which was adequate for the appliances and electrical needs of the time.
Risks:
60-amp service is insufficient for modern homes, which require more power for appliances and electronics.
The risk is overuse of the electrical system, overheating and increased fire risk.
Homes with 60-amp service may be ineligible for certain coverage or face surcharges unless upgraded to at least 100 amps. If you have 60-amp electrical service, contact your insurance representative to learn more.
What to do:
Contact a licensed electrician for proper inspection, advice and installation of an upgraded electrical service.
Suburban expansion (1960s to 1990s)
Main concerns:
1. Aluminum wiring
Aluminum wiring is a cheap, lightweight alternative to copper. Common during the suburban expansion, aluminum wiring was often installed incorrectly.
Risks:
Aluminum wire can heat up and become a fire hazard.
Aluminum can expand and contract more than copper, resulting in loose connections.
What to do:
Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) recommends hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) to assess the wiring’s condition, make any necessary repairs, and arrange for an ESA inspection. The inspector will provide you with a certificate to show electrical work has been done up to code. Insurance companies may require this certificate to confirm your home’s wiring is safe.
2. Polybutylene (Poly-B) plumbing
Poly-B is plastic piping used for plumbing during the suburban expansion. It is cost-effective, flexible and lightweight.
Risks:
Poly-B is susceptible to breaking due to its reactivity with chlorine in water, sensitivity to UV light and ability to heat up quickly.
This breakage and risk of failure can lead to water leaks and damage.
What to do:
Consult a professional to inspect your plumbing system. The Poly-B plumbing may require replacing. Some insurers may have exclusions regarding Poly-B plumbing. If you have Poly-B plumbing, contact your insurance representative to learn more.
3. Asbestos
Asbestos is a natural mineral known for its strength and heat resistance. It was used in a variety of building construction materials. Prior to 1990, common sources of asbestos in homes include cement and plaster, floor and ceiling tiles, insulation and exterior siding.
Risks:
Most of the time asbestos poses very little risk to your health. It is only a risk if it is disturbed and you breathe in asbestos fibers that are released into the air.
Avoid disturbing asbestos materials yourself - exposure to asbestos increases your risk of developing lung disease.
What to do:
Before doing any major renovations, remodelling or demolitions, reduce your risk of exposure in the home by hiring a professional to test for asbestos. If asbestos is found, hire a qualified asbestos removal specialist to get rid of it before beginning work.
Modernization (2000 to present)
Main concerns:
1. Cyber risk
Modern homes face cyber risks due to devices such as smart TVs, doorbells and speakers, wi-fi networks and more. These devices can be hacked if not secured. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and update device software to protect your home from cyber risk.
Risks:
Devices such as security cameras, door locks and thermostats can be hacked.
Phishing, malware attacks and wi-fi breaches can lead to data or identity theft.
What to do:
Install anti-virus software, avoid clicking suspicious links and watch out for phishing and malware signs. Including, urgent messages, requests for personal information or unexpected attachments. These steps help block harmful software and unauthorized access to your data and devices. Learn more about how you can protect yourself and your family with a personal cyber insurance policy.
There are several free resources on cyber risks, such as:
If you are a victim of a cybercrime, the Government of Canada has a list of recommended actions you should take.
Regardless of when your home was built, it's important to understand the risks facing your property and community – and to take steps to reduce those risks and help protect your most-valuable assets. Visit our Stay Protected section to learn more about various hazards and how to prepare for them.
