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Electrical System Upgrade

HIGH PRIORITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT

Current State

What We Know

~1967, 2-story, 1800 sq ft
Replaced ~8 years ago (believed 200A)
100% BX/Snakeskin (armored cable)
All 3-prong (no 2-prong remaining)
None
Unknown (ask electrician)

Key Unknown: The 3-prong outlets are installed, but the grounding status needs verification. BX cable can serve as a ground path if the metal jacket is continuous and properly bonded—but this needs professional assessment to confirm code compliance.

Project Scope

Immediate Needs:

Future Planning (Discuss with Electrician):

Questions to Ask Electricians

  • Is the BX conduit providing adequate ground, or do we need to run ground wires?
  • What's the actual panel amperage? Is it sufficient for current + EV + potential ADU?
  • Do you recommend selective rewiring or full replacement of the BX?
  • What would a future ADU subpanel run cost (ballpark for planning)?
  • Any insurance concerns with BX wiring in your experience?
  • Permit requirements for the EV circuit?

Contractor Research

Initial Research Notes (November 2025)

Rhema Electric — Specifically mentions experience with "older Craftsman-style homes" in Everett, panel upgrades, EV charger installs. Notes they "spot outdated wiring, undersized panels, and unsafe setups." Offers Safety & Savings Membership with annual inspections. Website: rhemaelectric.com

Phase 3 Electric — Long-standing reputation. Reviewer notes "new panel overhead and rewire" with professional results. Owner Ryan mentioned by name with 10+ years of customer relationship. Good for both assessment and execution. Website: phase3electric.com

Custom Electrical Services — 10+ years experience, specifically mentions complete home rewires and Tesla wall connector installs. Reviewer praised "exceptional work installing the charger" in difficult location. Free estimates, same-day appointments available. Phone: (206) 558-0440. Website: customelectricalseattle.com

Clarity Electric LLC — Handles partial rewiring, main panel upgrades, and EV charging stations. Fully stocked vans for timely repairs. Listed on Expertise.com as top Everett electrician.

Estimates

Wild Guess (Pre-Assessment)

$2,500 – $15,000
Wide range because scope depends entirely on assessment findings
Best case ($2,500-$4,000): BX grounding is adequate, just need EV circuit + minor updates.

Middle case ($5,000-$10,000): Some circuits need ground wires, EV circuit, maybe additional circuits for modern needs.

Worst case ($12,000-$20,000+): Full rewire recommended to replace all BX with Romex throughout 1800 sq ft.

Estimate #1

TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
Awaiting assessment...

Estimate #2

TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
Awaiting assessment...

Estimate #3

TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
Awaiting assessment...

Decision Notes

No decision made yet. First step: Schedule assessment with 2-3 electricians to understand actual scope before comparing quotes. The assessment itself may have a fee ($100-$200 typical) or may be free with commitment to quote.