The average cost to move an electrical panel ranges from $1,500 to $4,000. The total price depends on factors like the panel type, necessary permits, and labor costs, averages around $3,500. Whether for practical reasons or code compliance, moving an electrical panel to a new location in your home is sometimes necessary. Here’s a look at how to budget for relocating an electrical panel.
Cost Factors for Moving an Electrical Panel
The cost to move an electrical panel depends on a few key factors. These are the main aspects that will play into your budget.
Types
Costs to move an electrical panel can vary depending on whether you’re moving a fuse box, breaker box, or subpanel. The main difference between a fuse box versus a breaker box is that circuit breakers offer built-in protection against short circuits, while fuse boxes do not. With that in mind, a fuse box isn’t as complex as other systems and it’s the least expensive to relocate. Here are the average costs for these electrical panels.
Type
Average Cost
Fuse Box
$1,000–$1,500
Breaker Box
$1,000–$3,500
Subpanel
$1,000–$3,000
Guide to Upgrading a Panel
Distance
The distance you’re moving an electrical panel can affect your cost. For example, moving the electrical panel to a different spot in the same room will cost less than moving it to another part of the house or a different house entirely. You’ll likely need to pay for more wiring and additional labor costs. It’s a good idea to get a rough idea of the distance you'll need to move the panel before you begin calling electricians for quotes.
Permits
Most electrical work requires a permit, with fees varying based on your state or municipality. Your electrician will typically handle pulling the necessary electrical service upgrade permits for you and include the fees in your total project cost.
Upgrades
Upgrading an electrical panel costs$1,200 to $2,000 on average. If you have an older home with a 100-amp service panel, you may want to consider choosing between a 100-amp versus a 200-amp service panel. Upgrading to 200 amps is the standard for modern home running lights, HVAC systems, and multiple appliances simultaneously. Consult your electrical panel pro to determine whether you should upgrade your current model during the relocation process.
Labor
Hiring an electrician costs$50 to $100 per hour on average, depending on their skills and experience level. You should always hire a local electrician who specializes in electrical panels for this service to ensure your installation is safe and up to code. Your labor costs will also include factors like trip fees, hourly minimums, and required inspections.
Repairs
Relocating your electrical panel will require removing drywall to access the inner wiring. The average drywall repair cost is between $300 and $950, depending on the square footage in question. Painting a room typically costs$2 to $6 per square foot, which you’ll need to complete after reinstalling the drywall.
Cost of Common Add-Ons When Moving an Electrical Panel
With one-time trip fees and many pros offering discounts for bundled services, it’s a good idea to consider getting other electrical services done at the same time. Here are a few to think about:
Tips to Save on the Cost to Move an Electrical Panel
Photo: contrastwerkstatt / Adobe Stock
You should always prioritize safety and compliance with local regulations when relocating an electrical panel. Here are the best ways to save money on your project while still ensuring your new panel is safe and up to code:
Opt for an electrical panel location that requires minimal structural alterations or wiring extensions.
Ensure the area around the existing and new panels is easily accessible and free from obstacles to save time for the electrician.
This relocation project requires high levels of electrical expertise and skills to complete successfully, so you should not attempt to DIY it. Working with electrical systems in your home carries significant safety risks, requiring a professional electrician who specializes in electrical panels to handle. Plus, any mistakes made by inexperienced homeowners could damage your home’s wiring systems, leading to even more expensive repairs.
Instead, hire an electrical panel expert near you to tackle the task of moving your electrical panel to a new spot. These experts have the skills, tools, and experience necessary to complete this type of job safely and efficiently. Plus, they can help you determine whether you need to upgrade your electrical panel during the relocation.
If you’re wondering whether an electrical panel in the bathroom needs to be moved, the answer is yes. Due to the risks of shocks and electrical fires, electrical panels cannot be located in bathrooms per National Electric Code Volume 70. Additionally, gasses, vapors, liquids, and temperature fluctuations can all compromise the functionality of your electrical panel, so it’s important to install it in a dry, cool, safe, and easily accessible location.
Yes, placing an electrical panel within a bedroom is acceptable, provided it meets space requirements outlined by OSHA and relevant agencies. When situated in a bedroom, electricians commonly position the electrical panel behind the door swing area for convenient access during panel repairs. If you are considering placing an electrical panel in your bedroom, it is important to consult with a qualified electrician to make sure that the panel is installed in a safe and accessible location.
Homeowners insurance policies will typically cover your cost to replace an electrical panel if damage occurs due to a covered circumstance such as fire, lightning, or certain types of accidents. Regular wear and tear or damage due to neglect might not be covered, so it's essential to review the policy details and consult with your insurance provider on the specifics of your coverage.
The life expectancy of a home electrical panel is typically around 25 to 40 years. However, this can vary based on usage, maintenance, and technological advancements. Regular inspections by a qualified electrician can help determine the condition and potential need for replacement as your panel ages. Factors like overloading, outdated components, or wear and tear might prompt earlier replacements for safety and efficiency reasons.
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