Hiring an Electrician for Electrical Panel Replacement
Your electrical panel is the most critical component of your home's electrical system. When it needs replacement, choosing the right electrician matters more than almost any other home improvement decision. Here's a comprehensive guide to making that choice.
Why Panel Replacement Is Different
Panel work isn't like replacing a light fixture. It involves:
- Working with utility company for service disconnect
- Handling live power at high amperage
- Ensuring proper grounding and bonding
- Meeting current code requirements
- Coordinating inspections
- Understanding how your entire electrical system works together
This complexity is why hiring the right professional is so important.
Essential Qualifications to Verify
Licensing
Panel replacement requires a licensed electrician in all jurisdictions. Verify:
- Current state or local electrical license
- License allows them to do the scope of work needed
- No disciplinary actions on record
How to check: Contact your local building department or the Missouri Division of Professional Registration.
Insurance
Panel work carries significant risk. Require proof of:
- General liability insurance ($1 million minimum recommended)
- Workers' compensation insurance
- Current, non-expired policies
Why it matters: Without proper insurance, you could be liable for injuries or damage during the project.
Experience with Panel Work
Ask specifically about panel replacement experience:
- How many panel replacements have they done?
- Do they regularly work with your panel brand/type?
- Are they familiar with your utility company's requirements?
- Have they done upgrades of the size you need?
Questions to Ask Prospective Electricians
About the Project
- What size panel do you recommend for my home's needs?
- Will my existing wiring work with the new panel?
- Do I need any additional upgrades (grounding, service entrance)?
- Will you coordinate with the utility company?
- What permits are required, and who pulls them?
- What inspections will be needed?
About Their Process
- Who will actually do the work?
- How long will my power be off?
- What happens if you discover additional problems?
- How do you handle unexpected costs?
- What's your warranty on labor?
About Logistics
- When can you start?
- How long will the project take?
- What do I need to do to prepare?
- How do you protect my home during work?
Red Flags When Hiring
Walk away if:
- They can't or won't provide license and insurance information
- They suggest skipping permits to save money
- They pressure you to decide immediately
- The price seems dramatically lower than other quotes
- They want full payment upfront
- They're vague about who will do the work
- They can't explain what they're proposing and why
Understanding Estimates
A thorough panel replacement estimate should include:
Scope of Work: - Panel brand, model, and amperage - Number of circuits and breaker types - Service entrance cable (if being replaced) - Grounding system work - Surge protection (if included)
Costs Breakdown: - Materials with specifications - Labor - Permit fees - Inspection coordination
Exclusions: - What's NOT included (drywall repair, painting, etc.) - Conditions that would change the price
Timeline: - Start date - Duration estimate - Power outage duration
Warranty: - Labor warranty period - Parts warranty information
Comparing Multiple Estimates
Get at least 2-3 estimates and compare:
| Factor | Estimate 1 | Estimate 2 | Estimate 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panel size/brand | |||
| Breaker types | |||
| Surge protection | |||
| Permits included | |||
| Labor warranty | |||
| Total price |
Remember: The lowest price isn't always the best value. Compare scope, quality, and professionalism.
The Permit and Inspection Process
A qualified electrician handles permits, but understand the process:
- Permit application: Electrician submits to your municipality
- Approval: Usually 1-5 business days
- Work performed: After permit approval
- Rough inspection: Before covering any work
- Final inspection: After completion
- Utility reconnection: After passing inspection
Your responsibility: Be available for inspections or provide access.
Payment Terms
Reasonable payment structures for panel replacement:
- Deposit: 25-50% to secure materials and scheduling
- Progress payment: After rough-in (for larger jobs)
- Final payment: After final inspection passes
Avoid: Full payment before work begins or before final inspection.
After the Installation
Document everything: - Permit numbers and inspection approvals - Panel serial number and installation date - Warranty information - Photos of completed work
Test immediately: - Verify all circuits are working - Check that panel is properly labeled - Test GFCI and AFCI breakers
Keep for records: - All documentation for insurance and future sale - Electrician's contact information for warranty work
Our Approach to Panel Replacement
When you hire us for panel replacement:
- Detailed assessment: We evaluate your entire electrical system, not just the panel
- Clear recommendation: We explain what you need and why
- Written estimate: Comprehensive breakdown before work begins
- Permit handling: We pull permits and coordinate inspections
- Utility coordination: We work with your utility for safe disconnection
- Quality installation: Licensed electricians, proper materials, code-compliant work
- Warranty: We stand behind our work
Schedule your free panel assessment to discuss your needs with a licensed electrician.