How Long A Panel Upgrade Takes In Los Angeles
About 6 to 8 hours at the house, with the power off most of that time. Around it come the permit, the inspection and the utility, which in Los Angeles add one to several weeks.
- Updated October 2026
- CA License #1159199
Step By Step
| Step | How long it usually takes |
|---|---|
| Look at the panel and run the load calculation | One visit, or your photos |
| Electrical permit from LADBS | Residential work up to 400 amps without engineering usually qualifies as an express permit, issued online |
| LADWP confirms the meter location (overhead service) | 5 to 10 business days to schedule, according to LADWP’s guide |
| Install day | 6 to 8 hours, with the power off most of that time |
| Inspection and release | LADBS inspects; LADWP’s guide says to allow several days for the release |
| Start to finish | Published Los Angeles cases run from one to ten weeks |
Panel Only, Or The Whole Service?
“Panel only” means changing the box and the breakers and keeping the meter, the mast and the service wires. A full service upgrade also replaces the meter base, the mast, the service conductors and the grounding, and it means coordinating with the utility. That usually adds 4 to 8 hours on site, and the utility’s appointments set the calendar.
What Makes It Take Longer
- Relocating the meter or the panel.
- Underground service instead of overhead.
- Stucco or drywall repair around the new panel.
- Code corrections the inspector asks for, such as grounding.
- A panel brand that has to be replaced completely, such as Zinsco.
How To Read A Quote
- Is the permit included, and who pulls it?
- Is the utility coordination included?
- Does it say the amperage and the panel brand?
- Is there a load calculation, or only a recommendation?
- Is the down payment within the legal limit of $1,000 or 10%, whichever is less?
A quote that leaves out the permit is not the same job. Work without a permit can cost you the utility rebate and a problem at sale time.
Do You Need The Upgrade At All?
Utility data cited by Efficiency First California indicates that 86% of homes peak below 50 amps, even with an electric vehicle. The City of Palo Alto’s utility says most homes can electrify without a panel upgrade. Ask for a load calculation before you accept a replacement. Take the 60 second check.
Rebates
We found no LADWP rebate for panels alone in October 2026, but panel work counts as an eligible cost inside its EV charger rebate of up to $1,000. Pasadena Water and Power lists $1,000 for an upgrade to 200 amps or more that includes dedicated circuits for a Level 2 charger and an electric water heater. The federal 30C credit ended for equipment placed in service after June 30, 2026.
Sources
- LADWP, Guide to Electric Service (2024)
- LADWP, Residential EV Charger Rebate Program
- Pasadena Water and Power, electric panel rebate
- Efficiency First California, electrical service panels (2026)
- IRS, Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit
- CSLB, license check
Last updated October 2, 2026. Figures from third parties are market ranges, not a quote.
Want The Number For Your House?
Call, or text a photo of the panel. The price comes in writing before any work starts.