I recently purchased a home with the understanding that there was some knob and tube on the second floor. I negotiated insurance but only with the clause that I have all the knob and tube replaced in sixty days. As my inspector found the branch, panel and other wiring quite well done, I figured this would be painful but doable.
So I came to HomeStars and got five firms to give me quotes. I started with the top rated electrician in Toronto and worked my way down.
Let me just say that this was a horrific experience in all but one case. Each vendor quoted prices higher than the last. One wouldn't even give me a final quote. He said it would be roughly $11,000 but he wouldn't know until he took my basement ceiling off. And here is the kicker. He wouldn't put it back. I'd have to negotiate that separately with a general contractor.
My house on the first and basement level is beautifully finished and renovated. I don't have an open basement. I don't have an attic. I was told by one contractor that my house was a "Nightmare" and to just live with the knob and tube or I would have to move out for 15 days while they ripped the walls apart. And again, they wouldn't put it back together.
Then I met Kiya. First, Kiya spotted some warning signs within 5 minutes of walking in my house. And sure enough, it turns out my entire house had knob and tube. Oy. The previous owner had hidden it with some very sneaky tricks. But Kiya told me not to worry. I remember asking him, "do you have to take my ceiling out??" and I will forever remember his laughter and his answer of "why would I ever take your ceiling out!?"
Kiya's crew did three amazing things when it comes to contractors. First, they arrived on time the day they said they would start. Seven of the most fabulous men descended with care on my house. Second, they did not destroy my house. I am still marveling at how they managed to run wires across three floors with so few holes. Holes that they patched back up before wrapping and cleaning up. And finally, they came in on budget. Time and again, Kiya offered to put in an extra outlet or move a switch to make it more convenient and not once did he ask for money beyond his quote.
I can't recommend Kiya or his crew any higher. They will be the only electricians I ever call.
- Approximate cost of services:
- $8,000.00