What aluminum branch wiring is
Aluminum branch-circuit wiring was installed in Canadian homes from roughly 1965 to 1976, when copper prices spiked. In Calgary it is most common in inner-city homes from that era and in suburban communities like Lake Bonavista, Willow Park, and Cedarbrae. It is not the same as the aluminum service-entrance and feeder cables used today, which remain perfectly safe.
Where the actual risk is
The concern is at terminations — outlets, switches, and panel connections. Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper under load, and over decades this cycling can loosen connections. Loose connections heat up, oxidize, and in worst cases ignite surrounding combustibles. Actual fire incidence is low when properly maintained, but insurers treat it seriously.
The three remediation options
Full rewiring with copper is the gold standard but expensive: $12,000–$25,000 for a full Calgary home. COPALUM crimping is highly effective but requires a specialized installer at $80–$150 per termination. AlumiConn connectors are the most common modern remediation — installed by a licensed electrician at every device, typically $50–$100 per termination.
Insurance terms drive the urgency
Some insurers will insure as-is. Others require AlumiConn or full rewire before binding coverage. The condition period is the time to find out — get written confirmation from your insurer for the specific property before removing conditions.
What the inspection identifies
The inspector notes presence at the panel and at sample receptacles, looks for any signs of past overheating (discoloration, melted insulation), and documents whether prior remediation has been done. Many sellers don't realize their home has aluminum wiring; many devices have never been updated since original construction.
