How Long Does a Panel Upgrade Take? Your Complete Timeline Guide
Most straightforward 200A panel swaps are completed in one working day after permit approval and utility scheduling. However, projects can take longer when they involve additional conduit runs, service or panel relocation, stucco or drywall preservation, feeder trenching, or PV/ESS interconnections. We review your AHJ requirements and provide a written schedule during the assessment so you know what to expect from the start.
If you’re asking how long does panel upgrade take, the answer depends on the condition of your existing system, permit requirements, utility coordination, and the complexity of the installation. At Farashi Electric, we manage the entire process—from planning and permitting to electrical panel upgrade in Los Angeles—with most standard projects completed in a single day and more involved upgrades typically requiring additional time.
This guide explains each stage of the upgrade process, helping you understand the expected timeline, avoid unexpected delays, and complete your electrical upgrade safely and efficiently.
What Affects How Long Does an Electrical Panel Upgrade Take?
Several factors influence the electrical panel upgrade timeline typical duration, including the size of the project, existing equipment, permit requirements, and the condition of the current electrical system.
Size and complexity: A basic panel swap usually takes around 4–8 hours with two technicians. Adding rewiring, service relocation, or additional electrical work can extend the project across multiple days.
Panel amperage: Installing a 200-amp service typically requires one full workday, usually around 6–10 hours depending on access, equipment, and inspection requirements.
Pre-existing wiring condition: Older or damaged wiring can add additional time, especially when electrical rewiring in Los Angeles is needed to bring the system up to current standards.
Location & permits: Relocating a panel or coordinating city inspections can extend the timeline. Surface-mounted installations often finish within a day, while flush-mounted setups may require two workdays plus inspection steps.
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Typical Timeline — What to Expect
Pre-work (scheduling & permits): We verify AHJ requirements, handle the necessary permit process, and coordinate utility disconnect/reconnect when required. Obtaining the correct electrical panel upgrade permit in Los Angeles helps ensure the project moves forward smoothly and passes inspection without unnecessary delays.
Installation day: Our team safely de-energizes the system, replaces the meter-main or panel equipment, updates grounding and bonding, labels circuits, and restores power after testing.
Final inspection: We schedule the final inspection, complete the permit closeout process, and provide as-built photos along with the updated panel schedule for your records.
Exterior relocations, extended conduit routes, wall or finish preservation, service size changes, and PV/ESS coordination can increase the project timeline. We identify these factors clearly in your written proposal before work begins.
What We Do on Installation Day
- Replace the meter socket, meter-main, or panelboard approved for your service size.
- Install service conductors and raceway while verifying required working clearances (~30″ wide, 36″ deep; door opens 90°).
- Set the main OCPD and complete accurate panel schedule labeling.
- Verify grounding and bonding systems (water/gas bond, GES continuity, and electrodes when required).
- Provide service SPD and emergency disconnect labeling where applicable.
- Torque all connections to specification, restore power, and test every circuit.
Panel Upgrade with EV Charger: What to Expect
Planning for a future EV charger Installation in Los Angeles?
Adding an EV charger can affect your project timeline depending on your current service capacity and electrical requirements. Expect an additional 1–2 hours for panel capacity checks and professional load calculations.
In some cases, upgrading wiring to support a 200-amp service may be necessary. This can add around 2–4 hours, along with any required permit and inspection steps.
When It Takes Longer: Watch for These Factors
- Complete Rewiring: Extensive rewiring projects can add 4–12+ hours depending on the condition and accessibility of the existing system.
- Panel Relocation: Moving a panel (for example, from a garage to a utility area) may require a full additional workday due to new routing, connections, and inspections.
- Inspection Scheduling: City inspection availability can affect the final approval timeline, sometimes adding anywhere from 24 hours to a week.
- Unexpected Issues: Aging wiring, damaged conduits, corrosion, or limited panel access can extend the schedule beyond the original estimate.
Why Choose Farashi Electric?
Experienced technicians: We complete smooth, efficient upgrades in typical homes while keeping the process organized.
Advanced troubleshooting tools: Our testing equipment helps identify issues early and reduce unnecessary delays.
One-stop service: From panel upgrades and electrical rewiring in Los Angeles to complete system testing, we keep the entire process handled by our team.
Transparent scheduling: You’ll know the expected timeline for your project, and we work to deliver according to the schedule we provide.
Does Panel Size Matter? Timeline by Amperage
| Panel Size | Crew | Typical Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 amp panel upgrade | 2 electricians | 4–6 hours | Minimal disruption |
| 150–200 amp upgrade | 2 electricians | 6–10 hours | Permits standard |
| 200 amp + EV setup | 2–3 electricians | 8–12+ hours over ~1.5 days | City & utility inspections |
| Relocated panel (flush) | 2 electricians + stucco work | 2 days + inspection | Weather-dependent |
Permits & Utility Coordination
Electrical permits are required for panel upgrades in the City of Los Angeles (LADBS) and LA County. Many residential panel replacements qualify for Express/e-Permits, helping simplify the approval process. We handle the permit requirements, coordinate utility disconnect and reconnect when needed (such as LADWP/SCE), and schedule the final inspection with your AHJ.
How to Prepare for a Smooth Panel Upgrade
- Clear access to the panel area before the scheduled work.
- Disconnect sensitive electronics before any planned power interruption.
- Keep pets and children away from the work area for safety.
- Plan around standard working hours (9 AM–5 PM) whenever possible.
Choose Farashi Electric for a streamlined and professional upgrade experience.
At Farashi Electric, our goal is to answer the question “How long does a panel upgrade take?” with a realistic timeline based on your home’s actual conditions. Most standard projects are completed within one full working day, while more complex situations—such as a 200-amp service upgrade, relocation, or additional electrical work—may require around one and a half days.
We combine experienced workmanship, transparent scheduling, and full-service support to deliver safe, reliable, and minimally disruptive electrical upgrades.
Bahram Farashi
C-10 Licensed Electrician (CA Lic. #1102687) — 10+ years installing residential/commercial Electrical Services.
FAQs
Many residential panel swaps are completed the same day once our team arrives on-site. However, projects involving longer conductor routes, panel relocation, wall or finish protection, trenching, or additional service work may require extra time.
The timeline depends on the AHJ workload, project scope, and required approvals. Many residential upgrades can move through Express/e-Permits, while we handle inspection scheduling and utility coordination to keep the process organized.
Yes. You can usually remain at home during the project, but you should plan for a scheduled power outage window. We’ll explain the expected start time, estimated downtime, and when your power will be safely restored.
