Old wiring in North Hollywood homes isn't automatically unsafe, but wiring from the 1940s–1960s often lacks grounding, has worn insulation, and was never sized for today's electrical loads, so it should be inspected by a licensed electrician. Warning signs include two-prong outlets, warm switch plates, flickering lights, burning smells, and breakers or fuses that trip often. Many San Fernando Valley homes were built during the post-war boom, so these issues are common across North Hollywood.
Last updated: October 2026
How can you tell if your North Hollywood home has outdated wiring?
- Two-prong outlets: Grounded receptacles weren't required in new homes until the early 1960s, so two-prong outlets usually mean ungrounded circuits.
- A fuse box or small panel: 60-amp services and screw-in fuses are common in older Valley homes.
- Cloth-covered wiring in the attic or basement, which can turn brittle with age.
- Warm or discolored outlets and switches, or a faint burning smell.
- Lights that dim when the AC or a hair dryer kicks on.
Our guide to common electrical problems explains what each of these symptoms usually means.
Why does heat make old wiring worse in the Valley?
North Hollywood summers regularly top 95°F, and fall can still bring highs in the 80s°F during Santa Ana conditions. Air conditioners running for hours put a steady load on circuits, and older insulation breaks down faster when conductors run hot. That's why so many older-wiring calls come in during the hot months.
Do you need a full rewire, or can it be repaired?
It depends on what an inspection finds. Some homes only need a panel upgrade, a few new dedicated circuits, and GFCI protection on ungrounded outlets. Others with deteriorated insulation throughout are better off with a full rewire. Start with an electrical safety inspection. If the wiring is past saving, our home rewiring guide covers what to expect.
Who issues electrical permits in North Hollywood?
North Hollywood is part of the City of Los Angeles, so electrical permits go through the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). Electric service is provided by LADWP. A licensed contractor pulls the permit and schedules the inspection for you.
B&M Electrical Services has 30+ years of experience as a licensed California electrical contractor (C-1098584), working on older homes across the San Fernando Valley. See our North Hollywood electrician page for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just swap two-prong outlets for three-prong ones?
Not without a ground wire. Installing a three-prong outlet on an ungrounded circuit gives a false sense of protection. Code allows a GFCI outlet labeled "No Equipment Ground" as a safer option. An electrician can tell you which approach fits.
Does old wiring affect home insurance?
It can. Some insurers ask about fuse boxes or certain older panel types. An inspection report helps you answer accurately.
How long does an electrical inspection take?
For a typical single-family home, an inspection usually takes a few hours, depending on size and access.
Worried about the wiring in your North Hollywood home? Call Us Today for a Free Estimate at (661) 904-9377 or schedule your service online.