Do you need an electrician to upgrade an electrical panel?

Author: Llewellyn Muller  |  Last update: Friday, September 5, 2025

Due to the risk and need for compliance with electrical codes, it's recommended to hire a professional electrician for upgrades, and homeowners should prepare by consulting electricians, obtaining necessary permits, and planning for power disruptions.

Can I upgrade my electrical panel myself?

Yes, a homeowner can technically replace an electrical panel, but it often requires a permit and inspection. Due to safety risks and code requirements, many areas recommend or require that this work be done by a licensed electrician.

Can a homeowner change their own electrical panel?

Can a homeowner replace an electrical panel on their own? The short answer is yes, but it is strongly recommended to call a professional to handle an electrical project of this size. Many risks are involved in replacing an electrical panel without the proper experience or training.

Do you need a permit to upgrade an electrical panel?

In California, you need an electric permit before you can upgrade or replace your main electrical service panel.

How much does it cost to upgrade an electrical panel?

Depending on the size of the panel you need, you should plan on spending $250 to $450 for the panel itself. Installation and labor costs are separate. Labor for upgrading your electrical panel can cost anywhere from $1,000 to over $3,000 depending on the complexity of your installation.

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Does homeowners insurance cover electrical panel replacement?

Electrical panels are typically covered by your homeowners policy if the damage is the result of a "sudden and accidental" loss caused by a peril, such as a fire or lightning. However, you typically won't be covered if the damage is the result of age or improper maintenance.

What is an alternative to upgrading an electrical panel?

Replacing an old panel may be necessary, but depending on your needs and reasons for replacing the electric panel there may be alternatives, such as upgrading an existing panel with a load management device or adding a sub-panel.

What is involved in a panel upgrade?

This upgrade typically involves replacing the panel, upgrading circuit breakers, and wiring as needed. The estimated cost for upgrading to a 100-amp panel falls approximately between $850 to $1,450 on average, factoring in labor expenses.

Do you have to be a licensed electrician to change a breaker?

Should I Replace a Circuit Breaker Myself? Replacing an old circuit breaker is a job best handled by a licensed electrician and must only be done with the electricity disconnected. Doing so may require a permit and electrical codes must be strictly observed to guarantee the safety of your home and family.

Can I add a circuit to my breaker box without a permit?

Undertaking the upgrade of your electrical panel requires obtaining an appropriate permit to ensure that all electrical work complies with safety standards and the electrical code. This includes work involving the breaker box, which is crucial for ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Can a non-electrician change a breaker?

While you can replace a circuit breaker yourself if you have electrical expertise and are familiar with local regulations, hiring a licensed electrician is often safer and more practical.

Does upgrading your electrical panel increase house value?

Electrical upgrades increase home value, safety, and energy efficiency. Grounded outlets, GFCIs, and panel upgrades are appealing to potential buyers. Modern electrical systems cut down on energy bills and enhance convenience.

Can I write off electrical panel upgrade?

This tax credit is effective for products purchased and installed between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2032. Claim the credits using the IRS Form 5695 .

How long does it take to upgrade an electrical panel?

It will normally take two electricians somewhere between four and eight hours to remove the old panel, install the new one, and then wire all of the circuits into the new electrical panel. If only one electrician is performing the work, it could potentially take anywhere from two to four days instead.

How much does it cost to upgrade electrical board?

Cost of New Switchboard Equipment

On average, a switchboard can range from $500 to $1500, depending on your requirements and the quality of the equipment. It's important to invest in high-quality equipment to ensure the long-term reliability and safety of your electrical system.

Can I change 15 amp to 20 amp?

You should never just upgrade from a 15-amp breaker to a 20-amp one just because the current one is tripping. Otherwise, you may burn your house down via electrical fire. To help you understand why this is so dangerous, you need to know what the circuit breaker is for.

Can I upgrade my electrical panel without a permit?

The answer is yes. Upgrading a panel requires permits to be pulled. This is necessary to ensure that the power company or utility company can safely reconnect your power supply after the panel replacement is complete. Only licensed electricians have the authority to pull these permits.

Can you do electrical work without being an electrician?

Many states allow you to work unlicensed (e.g., as an apprentice) as long as you're supervised by a licensed electrician.

Is an electrician required to change an outlet?

If your outlet or switch requires more complex installation, such as a GFCI outlet installation or a circuit reconfiguration or upgrade, call a skilled electrician for help. Some municipalities may also require an electrician to perform the service to comply with safety codes.

What is the cost to upgrade electrical panel?

How Much Does an Electric Panel Upgrade Cost? The average cost of an electric panel replacement is between $850 and $2,500. This range is a little large because it depends on how many amps your house needs, and also if you are replacing an existing panel or installing one brand new.

Do you need an electrician to upgrade electrical panel?

The most important thing to know about upgrading your electrical panel is that you should hire an electrician to complete this delicate and potentially hazardous task.

Who upgrades electrical panels?

If a planned wiring change, construction project, or problems with your electricity call for an upgrade of your electrical panel or breaker box, a licensed electrician can complete your project.

Will upgrading my electrical panel lower my electric bill?

A new electrical panel can usually save you anywhere from 10 to 30% on your monthly electrical use, and this is because a newer panel will be designed to efficiently channel power to where it needs to be inside your home.

How much does a smart electrical panel cost?

How much does the SPAN panel cost? The SPAN electrical panel costs $3,500 before installation, taxes, and shipping. By comparison, the cost of a traditional 200-amp electrical panel is between $300 to $400.

How do I know if I can upgrade my electrical panel?

If your panel is less than 100 Amps (e.g., 40 or 60 Amps) then you will likely need an upgrade. You may also need to replace your panel if it is extremely old, degraded or otherwise unsafe. You can replace your panel without increasing its amperage.

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