Electrical

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.   See the price range for moving an electrical panel:How we get this data  Normal range for U.S. $1,500 – $4,000 Average $3,500 Low end $1,000 high end $2,000   $3,500 AVG 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 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. Related Article Should I Upgrade My Electrical Panel? Knowing the signs of a failing electrical panel can help you avoid serious electrical issues, including fire hazards 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: Cost to install a subpanel: $400–$1,750 Cost to add a new electrical outlet: $75–$485 per outlet Cost to install a light switch: $100–$200 Knob and tube wiring replacement: $12,000–$37,000 Cost to rewire a home: $1,500–$10,000 Installing a new electrical meter box: $200–$500 Replacing your service entrance cable: $200–$300 Tips to Save on the Cost to Move an Electrical Panel     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. If the main panel meets electrical panel location requirements, consider installing subpanels to avoid a full relocation. If undertaking renovations or other electrical work, combine the electrical panel relocation with these projects to reduce labor and setup costs. If it’s feasible, reuse existing conduit runs or wiring pathways to minimize the need for new materials and labor-intensive installations. Ask your electrician if they offer cost-saving options, such as discounts during specific times of the year and bundle services. DIY drywall repairs and other post-service repairs wherever possible. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro 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. Related Article How to Wire a Breaker Box in 12 Steps Here’s what it takes to power up your home   Ready to get a quote for your project?Answer a few questions, compare reviews, and choose the pro you want. Request project quote   Frequently Asked Questions Do I need to move an electrical panel in the bathroom? 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