How Much Does Electrical Panel Replacement Cost in Washington, D.C.?

The average electrical box replacement cost in Washington, D.C. is $1,380, with most installations falling anywhere from $500 to $2,265. On the low end, minor repairs or basic updates may cost $150, while more complex projects, such as panel relocations or upgrades to high-amperage systems, can reach up to $4,000. Factors like the type of panel, the home’s age, and local labor rates will influence your final price. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay for a panel replacement in the Nation’s Capital.

Electrical Panel Replacement Cost Factors in Washington, D.C.

Whether you upgrade your electrical panel to support more appliances or update an older system, several factors affect the total cost of this project.

Size and Amperage

The amperage rating of an electrical panel determines how much electrical current your home can handle. Homes in Washington, D.C. built before 1960 may still operate on outdated 60- or 100-amp panels, which can’t accommodate the electrical load for most modern appliances and electronics. Most households today need 150- or 200-amp panels to safely power HVAC systems, electric vehicle chargers, and more.

Panel Type

The term “electrical panel” can refer to multiple components within your home’s electrical system, each with its own replacement cost. Here’s what you can expect to pay on average for each type in Washington, D.C.

Labor

Local electricians in Washington, D.C. charge $50 to $150 per hour, which puts the labor for this project between $1,000 and $4,500, depending on the complexity of the installation. Replacing an electrical panel requires a licensed electrician and takes 20 to 30 hours of work.

Permits and Inspections

You can expect to pay between $50 and $300 for electrical permits, which usually include a post-installation inspection. In Washington, D.C., electrical panel replacements require permits to ensure the work meets local safety codes.

Accessibility and Home Layout

DC’s narrow row houses and aging historic infrastructure can make panel access more challenging. If your panel is tucked into a tight closet, behind walls, or in a basement with low clearance, your electrician may charge more for the added effort or the need to tear out drywall.

Add-On Services

Upgrading your electrical panel is a good time to tackle related projects, like finding the best electrical box location in your home and relocating the new panel. Your electrician may suggest these add-ons to optimize the safety and function of your home’s electrical system:

• Move electric panel: $1,500–$4,000 

• Installing new drywall: $1.50–$3 per square foot

• Adding outlet: $125–$200

• Replacing faulty wiring: $600 to $4,500

Electrician Pro Costs in Washington, D.C.

These are a few additional factors to consider when hiring a licensed electrician in Washington, D.C.

Licensing and Insurance

Washington, D.C. requires electricians to be licensed and insured, so always check credentials before you hire. The District licenses electricians through the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) under the Occupational and Professional Licensing Administration (OPLA). 

Specifically, licensing is handled by the DC Board of Industrial Trades, which ensures electricians have the specialized training and skills necessary to protect public health and safety. Always verify that your contractor is licensed and insured, and that they can pull the appropriate permits for your project.

Hourly Rates and Taxes

Electricians charge $50 to $150 per hour, depending on experience and certification. While D.C. doesn't charge sales tax on labor, the cost of materials may include D.C.’s 6% sales tax.

Tipping

Tipping for electrical work is not expected in D.C., but you can consider offering a 10% gratuity for exceptional service. If tipping doesn’t feel appropriate, a positive review or referral can also go a long way in supporting their business.

Warranties

Many electricians offer extended warranties on their work or installed equipment, so it’s worth considering your options. Be sure to ask what’s covered and get the terms in writing before the job begins.

Does Replacing an Electrical Panel Increase Home Value?

In a city filled with pre-war homes and modernized condos alike, there are many benefits of upgrading your electrical panel in D.C., including increased ROI on the housing market. Many buyers value the historic homes of D.C., but still want a safe and modernized electrical system.

A new electrical panel signals to potential buyers that the home is equipped to handle modern electrical loads, including EV chargers, smart appliances, and HVAC upgrades. It also reduces the likelihood of future repairs or safety concerns, making your listing more attractive and competitive to buyers looking for a place that’s move-in ready.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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