Is this panel safe and does it meet code?

Rizwana neem
by Rizwana neem
Is it necessary to update the panel to meet current code?
  8 answers
  • Annie Niehouse Annie Niehouse on Jun 21, 2015
    If it has been signed off by the Inspectors then it should be ok...If you feel otherwise, call them and have them come back out and show them what bothers you and you will be answered...Hopefully!!!
    • Rizwana neem Rizwana neem on Jun 21, 2015
      @Annie Niehouse thanks annie! last time it was inspected by a building official was 1977. will they just come out again and inspect even if we aren't filing a permit?
  • Nora Nora on Jun 21, 2015
    I would call a licensed electrician to inspect - your safety is worth his fee for an hour or so of his time! There are some breaker boxes (Federal Pacific) that have been known to cause fires because materials (aluminum) that were considered safe when installed (1960's ish) are now known to arc and can cause a fire. Details on the internet, where you would look this one up too.
    • Pete Wells Pete Wells on Jun 22, 2015
      @Nora This looks like a Cutler-Hammer breaker box, they provide many years of trouble-free service..
  • Ellen DeVilbiss Ellen DeVilbiss on Jun 22, 2015
    Houses don't get inspections on a yearly basis. This inspection was when the electrician installed the box. If you haven't added outlets, lights, major appliances that weren't there before, you are fine. However, that box is full. If you ever wish to add a major appliance that the house has never had or a house addition, you will need a new box and probably an upgraded service.
  • David Gnida David Gnida on Jun 22, 2015
    There has been electrical work done to your house within the past decade I'd say. for '77 it doesn't look too bad but definitely get it checked. I can see some of the wire and connectors don't date back that far so there's been a few things added over the years. Make sure it's all done correctly.
  • Laura H Laura H on Jun 23, 2015
    Hi there. I live in Fairfax county as well. We bought a home in Springfield a few years ago. We experienced strange dimming of lights and breakers tripping after moving into our home. Thousands of dollars in electrical work later, there is no risk of our investment burning down due to faulty breaker box or wiring. Ours looked just like yours. Have an electrician check it out! It's worth the couple hundred dollars versus thousands!
  • Rizwana neem Rizwana neem on Jun 23, 2015
    thank you all. we are changing the panel. any ideas on cost?
    • PRESIDENTSAC PRESIDENTSAC on Apr 29, 2017

      Just increased the size of mine and added the current smoke detectors in Atlanta $2000.

  • Laura H Laura H on Jun 24, 2015
    About $1500
    • Rizwana neem Rizwana neem on Jun 24, 2015
      @Laura H Hi Laura, this house is, incidentally, also in Springfield. What brand panel did your electrician use and does their price include filing for a permit?
  • Laura H Laura H on Jun 24, 2015
    GE Powermark Gold. Permit was included in price.