LA’s New Cooling Mandate & Insurance Shifts: Expert Insights

Posted on April 21, 2026 | by K Hopkins

At The Electric Connection, we believe that staying ahead of regulatory changes isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring the safety of your tenants.

Recently, our very own Kim Hopkins, owner of The Electric Connection, hosted a webinar to discuss two of the most pressing issues facing property owners and managers in Los Angeles today: the new 82-degree indoor cooling mandate and the tightening insurance requirements for aging electrical panels.

With over 45 years of experience serving the Los Angeles metropolitan area, Kim shared his deep expertise on how these changes affect your building’s electrical infrastructure and what you can do to stay prepared.

The 82-Degree Mandate: Is Your Building Ready?
The County of Los Angeles has introduced a mandate requiring indoor temperatures to be maintainable at or below 82 degrees Fahrenheit. While this currently targets unincorporated areas, the City of Los Angeles and the State of California are considering similar requirements.

The Challenge: Adding air conditioning to older buildings creates a massive new “electrical load.” Many older properties simply aren’t equipped to handle the surge in power required by dozens of new AC units running simultaneously. Kim highlighted the importance of a professional load calculation to determine if your current service can handle the heat—or if a service upgrade is necessary to avoid blown fuses and fire hazards.

The “Insurance Letter”: Why Your Electrical Panel Matters
Property managers across Southern California are receiving dreaded notices from insurance carriers: Replace your electrical panels or lose your coverage.

Insurers are increasingly blacklisting specific brands of aging or recalled sub-panels that are known fire risks. Kim discussed why brands like Federal Pacific (FPE) and Zinsco are major red flags for insurers. If your building contains these panels, you may face skyrocketing premiums or total policy cancellations.

Expert Advice from Kim Hopkins
During the webinar, Kim provided actionable strategies for property owners facing these challenges:

Don’t Panic Over “The Letter”: If you receive a notice from your insurer, the first step is a professional inspection. Kim explained how to differentiate between a simple repair and a necessary replacement to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Identify “Contractor Traps”: Not all electrical contractors are created equal. Kim shared how to spot “red flags,” such as contractors who underbid by skipping permits or those who use sub-standard materials.
The Power of a Lifetime Guarantee: Since founding The Electric Connection in 1979, Kim has stood by the philosophy that quality comes first. We offer a lifetime guarantee on our work, providing property owners with the peace of mind that their new panels will meet both city codes and insurance standards for decades to come.

Listen Now and Take Action
The trend of stricter cooling mandates and insurance audits is only growing. Whether you manage a single apartment building or a massive condominium complex, the time to assess your electrical health is now. Listen to the webinar below or visit Apartment News Magazine’s website for more info.

Is your property compliant? Don’t wait for an insurance hike or a power failure during the next heatwave.

Contact The Electric Connection today to schedule a consultation with our expert team. Let us help you navigate the complexities of load requirements and panel upgrades with the expertise that only 45 years in the business can provide.

Apartment Panel Upgrade: Overcoming the “Hidden Pipe” Challenge

Posted on February 3, 2026 | by K Hopkins

Hello from the team at The Electric Connection!

We wanted to share a behind-the-scenes look at a recent project we completed at a property in Los Angeles.

Electrical work in older apartment buildings often presents “surprises” once you open up the walls, and this job for Unit 1 was no exception.

The Challenge: A Tight Squeeze

When we began the process of installing the new sub-panel for Unit 1, we ran into a significant roadblock. Upon opening the wall, we discovered a 1.5″ electrical conduit feeding the unit directly above (Unit 5).

The space was extremely restricted:

To the right: A door.
To the left: A closet.
Behind the wall: Another closet.
Structural Integrity: A 4×4 hold-down that we absolutely could not cut.

Our Professional Solution

Because we couldn’t relocate the panel, we had to get creative. We determined the best course of action was to cut the existing electrical pipe, intercept it into the new panel, and bypass it to continue up to the upper unit.

To make this work:

We replaced the rigid “hard pipe” with flexible conduit.
This required cutting the wall from top to bottom to allow for the necessary maneuvering.
Because of the pipe’s position, the new panel now sits about one inch away from the wall.

To ensure a clean, professional finish, we are installing custom 1″ wood trim around the panel frame.

Results and Reliability

After a full day of work by our dedicated crew, Unit 1 now has a modern, fully labeled, and safely installed sub-panel. As you can see below, every circuit—from the kitchen to the FAU (Forced Air Unit)—is clearly identified for the tenant’s convenience.

At The Electric Connection, we pride ourselves on a “workmanlike manner” and provide a Lifetime Labor Warranty on our installations. Whether it’s a routine upgrade or a complex bypass like this one, we make sure the job is done right.

Need an electrical expert for your property? Contact us today at (818) 446-0888 or email service@electricconnection.com.

Electrical technician working on a switchboard with fuses, installing and connecting electrical equipment.

Upgrading Outdated Subpanels in Older Properties

Posted on June 4, 2024 | by K Hopkins

Older properties should be inspected regularly as the electrical systems often face challenges that can cause safety and efficiency problems. The subpanel, or the satellite circuit breaker panel, is a critical component in the electrical system. The results from the inspection will tell you when it is time to upgrade the outdated subpanels because your home must remain safe, functional, and up-to-date with modern electrical standards. This text will help you understand when and how the upgrading process should go.

Understanding the Role of Subpanels

A subpanel extends the leading service panel, distributing power to various parts of a property. The main service panel is the heart of the electrical system, receiving power from the utility company and distributing it throughout the home. On the other hand, the subpanel serves a specific area and efficiently manages electrical circuits.
They are installed in locations like garages, workshops, or home editions. They feed from a 240-volt breaker on the main service panel. In this way, the power is divided into additional branch circuits, effectively taking the load off the main panel without overworking the overall system.

Why Upgrade Outdated Subpanels?

There are several reasons to consider for upgrading outdated subpanels, especially in older properties. Let’s look at the top three.

Safety Concerns

The older the subpanel model, the more likely it is not to meet current electrical codes. This poses a significant safety risk, as outdated wiring, corroded connections, and wire breakers can lead to electrical fires.

Increase Electrical Demand

Today, we use far more electricity than the homes and buildings built several decades ago. When you upgrade the subpanels, you ensure that the electrical system can handle this increased demand from modern appliances and technology.

Improve the Efficiency

When you upgrade the subpanel, you automatically improve the efficiency of the whole electrical system because you reduce the possibility of circuits overloading and breaking.

Benefits of Installing Subpanels

Now, look at what you get from installing subpanels in your home.

Space

When the main service panel runs out of breaker slots, the subpanel allows you to add the new circuits without needing a complete panel replacement.

Convenience

When you upgrade the subpanel, you get a localized control of electrical circuits. For example, if a circuit breaker trips in your garage, you can reset it only for that location without going to the main panel.

Efficiency

Another benefit of running a single feeder wire to a subpanel is cost-effectiveness, as you save time and money compared to running multiple individual circuits from the main panel.

How to Upgrade Your Subpanel?

Inspection and Assessment

First, you need to evaluate the current state of the electrical system. You must look for signs such as flickering lights, warm outlets, or frequent breaker trips. If you notice these indicators, then it is time to upgrade.

Consult a Professional

You can’t do electrical work on your own; it is complex and dangerous. It is recommended that you hire a licensed electrician company like The Electric Connection which can assess your needs and ensure that the upgrade complies with local electrical codes.

Obtain Necessary Permits

Electrical work requires permits. You must make sure that your electrician includes permit fees in their quote so that you can avoid unexpected costs and fines.

Installation

The electrician will install it and ensure it is correctly connected to the main service panel and has appropriate feeder wires, neutral wires, and ground wires.

How Can Property Managers Help?

Property managers oversee the whole management process of the property and ensure that the safety and functionality of the buildings, particularly older ones, are in order. Here’s how they can assist in upgrading outdated subpanels

Regular Inspections

Property managers schedule regular electrical inspections to identify potential issues early. These inspections can help detect problems with subpanels before they become threatening.

Coordinating Upgrades

When there is a necessity for an upgrade, the property managers can coordinate with the contractors to ensure the work is done efficiently and correctly.

Budgeting and Planning

Upgrading electrical systems can be expensive, but property managers can help budget these upgrades, spreading the cost over time.

Communication with Tenants

Property managers also communicate with tenants about upcoming electrical works so that they can be prepared and minimize disruptions.

Special Considerations for Older Homes

Several things must be taken into consideration, especially when upgrading subpanels in older homes. Here they are.

Their aging wiring systems may not support modern electrical loads so upgrading the subpanel can help manage these loads more effectively.
Old subpanels don’t comply with current safety standards, so replacing them with modern subpanels is crucial for safety.
There is a limited electrical capacity, so adding a subpanel can help distribute power more efficiently.

Conclusion

Upgrading outdated subpanels in properties must be done to maintain a safe, efficient, and modern electrical system. When you understand the role and benefits of subpanels, you know the importance of recognizing an upgrade, so property owners must ensure the electrical system meets the current standard demands with regular inspections and proactive upgrades. Regular inspections and proactivity will improve the overall functionality of the property.

electrical panel with circuit breakers showing

Understanding Electrical Panels And Circuit Breakers

Posted on May 17, 2023 | by K Hopkins

As a homeowner or business owner, it’s important to have a basic understanding of your electrical panel and circuit breakers. This knowledge can help you identify potential problems and ensure that your electrical system is functioning properly.

In this article, we will discuss the basics of electrical panels and circuit breakers, and provide tips on how to maintain and troubleshoot these essential components of your electrical system.

Take a Look at Your Electrical Panel

The electrical panel, also known as the service panel, is the central hub of your home or business’s electrical system. It receives power from the utility company and distributes it throughout your building via a series of circuits.

The panel is typically located in a utility room or basement and is composed of a metal box with a door that houses a series of circuit breakers or fuses. The size and capacity of the panel will depend on the size of your home or business and the electrical load it needs to support.

What are Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers are safety devices that are designed to protect your electrical system from overload, short circuits, and electrical faults. They are installed in the electrical panel and can be reset manually when they are tripped.

When a circuit is overloaded, the circuit breaker will automatically switch off to prevent damage to your electrical system or the risk of an electrical fire. Fuses work similarly but are replaced when they “blow” and need to be replaced.

One important thing to note is that if you have an older home or building, it may still be equipped with a fuse box rather than a circuit breaker panel.

Fuse boxes work similarly to circuit breakers, but instead of being reset manually, they need to be replaced when they blow. If you have a fuse box, it’s important to have it inspected by a licensed electrician to ensure that it’s functioning properly and up to code.

What’s Next

It’s important to keep your electrical panel and circuit breakers in good condition to ensure that your electrical system is functioning properly and safely.

Here are some tips on how to maintain and troubleshoot your electrical panel and circuit breakers:

Keep the area around the panel clear: It’s important to keep the area around the electrical panel clear of clutter and debris to ensure that it’s easily accessible in case of an emergency.
Schedule regular inspections: It’s recommended to have your electrical panel and circuit breakers inspected by a licensed electrician every 3-5 years to ensure that they are functioning properly and up to code.
Check for signs of wear and tear: Look for signs of wear and tear on the electrical panel, such as rust or corrosion, loose wires or connections, or burn marks. If you notice any of these signs, contact a licensed electrician immediately.
Test your circuit breakers: Test your circuit breakers periodically by flipping them on and off. If a breaker is difficult to reset or doesn’t reset at all, contact a licensed electrician.
Upgrade to a new panel: If you have an older electrical panel that is no longer functioning properly or is not up to code, consider upgrading to a new panel. This can improve the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.

In conclusion, understanding your electrical panel and circuit breakers is an essential part of maintaining the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.

If you’re experiencing any issues with your electrical panel or circuit breakers, it’s important to contact a licensed electrician to diagnose and repair the issue.

The Electric Connection is a reliable and trustworthy electrical contractor that can help with any electrical issues you may have in the Los Angeles area.

Is There A Difference Between A Fuse And Circuit Breaker?

Posted on February 9, 2023 | by K Hopkins

The electrical circuit in your home is a network of wires and outlets that all work together to provide power to various appliances. Electrical power in these circuits can come from either direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC). This current can cause power surges or dips when it flows through your gadgets. Protective devices like fuses and circuit breakers are used to make sure that the gadgets or electrical circuits they are installed in are safe to use. In this article, we’ll compare and contrast fuses with circuit breakers and discuss their respective benefits.

Fuses – What Are They?

A fuse is a type of electrical component that melts itself in the event of a power surge or overload, cutting off power to the circuit. Standard fuses are made from wire coil or filament enclosed in porcelain or metallic or glass containers. Given that a fuse is essentially a thin strip of metal or a thin metal wire that melts when an excessive amount of current flows through a circuit, fuses are sometimes referred to as sacrificial devices. Fuses should be replaced or rewired when they are blown, depending on the type.

Circuit Breakers – What Are They?

Circuit breakers are usually installed to prevent your home’s electrical circuit from being damaged by an overload or short circuit. This switch operates automatically and is only activated when the circuit is in danger.

Typically, circuit breakers have two distinct mechanisms for activation. The first uses an electromagnet, while the second employs a bi-metal strip.

When the switch is in the “on” position, electricity can flow freely between the lower and upper terminals. In the event that the current reaches dangerous levels, the magnetic force of the solenoid will be sufficient to move a metal shutter in the switch mechanism, thereby severing the electrical connection and cutting off power.

Fuses Vs. Circuit Breakers

Although fuses and circuit breakers help protect your home’s electrical circuits from damage, here are some distinct differences between both electrical components:

Working Principle: When a fuse blows, it does so because of the high temperatures generated by the underlying conducting materials. Circuit breakers, on the other hand, make use of the electromagnetism switching principle in addition to the thermal properties of the electric current.
Reaction Speed: When compared to circuit breakers, fuses have a significant advantage due to the speed with which the metal fuse melts, which interrupts the flow of electricity.
Conducting Material: Fuses are pieces of wire that melt in the event of an electrical short or other malfunction and are typically made of either copper, tin, aluminum, lead, or silver. However, circuit breakers use microprocessors or relays to detect malfunction and trip the device.
Reusability: Fuses are used just once and need to be replaced afterward in order to keep working. A circuit breaker, on the other hand, only requires a reset when it trips.
Use-Case Scenario: In general, fuses are only installed in low-current-drawing electronic devices and in homes with minimal electrical demands. In contrast, circuit breakers rely on motors and other heavy machinery, which consumes a lot of electricity.

It is important to note that circuit breakers are increasingly becoming more popular than fuses for use in modern homes due to one simple fact – reusability.

Why Do Your Lights Flicker When Your AC Unit Turns On?

Posted on January 25, 2023 | by K Hopkins

You’ve probably noticed that your lights momentarily grow dim whenever you turn on your AC Unit. Have you ever wondered why? If you haven’t then you are not alone; several people also experience the same thing. It’s very easy to get used to such things when they happen ever so often but in today’s article, we’d take a look at the reason your lights flicker when you turn on the AC.

Should I Be Worried That My Lights Flicker When I Turn On The AC?

It shouldn’t be a problem if the lights go out for only a few seconds when the air conditioner kicks on. The initial power draw of a high-energy gadget, such as a modern air conditioner, can use up a lot of energy. This can reduce the brightness of your lights.

A flickering light is a common electrical response to a power interruption or diversion, and should not be cause for alarm. However, there could be a number of factors that can make the lights go out.

Lights that gradually fade in brightness, flash on and off often, or only dim on some circuits could be an indication of a more serious electrical problem.

In what situations should you seek expert help, and what are the more serious concerns that you may encounter?

You Have A Faulty Capacitor
Your AC unit’s compressor motor needs a little extra jolt of electricity to get going, and your capacitor serves this purpose by acting as a battery.

However, your capacitor’s storage capacity might degrade as time passes. If the lights dim by 30–40% whenever the air conditioner kicks on, you may have a faulty capacitor.

If the capacitor isn’t able to supply enough power to the compressor, the air conditioner will resort to pilfering power from other devices to kick into gear. Perhaps the lights are dimming because your air conditioner is using too much of the available power.

There Are Loose/Damaged Wire Connections
Do your lights instantly turn off and on when you turn on your air conditioner? Potentially frayed or damaged wires in the electrical system could be the culprits to blame. Sometimes, the reason your lightbulb is experiencing some electric current loss is because of a damaged or loose cable.

When you include the voltage drop that occurs when your air conditioner first turns on, the current loss could be enough to temporarily make your lights dim or even flicker.

Your Electric Circuit Is Overloaded
When circuits are overused, problems arise. Overloading your circuits can cause the breaker to trip or the air conditioner to make buzzing noises. Remove any appliances from the same circuit as your air conditioner if you see any of these warning indicators. As a result, fewer fires and shocks will occur.

Your Home’s Electrical Wiring Is Outdated
There may be a decrease in energy supply to your home’s appliances, including lights, if the wiring is old, damaged, or otherwise not up to par. Turning on the air conditioner will consume a sizable portion of the available electrical current, leaving less for other uses.

You should have an electrician and HVAC technician to take a look at your system if you suspect a wiring problem. The Electric Connection is your go-to residential electrical servicing and installation company if you need further information on why your lights flicker with the AC on.

swimming pool in backyard with a lot of trees around

How Much Amount of Electricity Does Pool Equipment Consume?

Posted on May 6, 2022 | by K Hopkins

When everyone thinks of their dream house, there’s almost always a pool. Most people want a pool in their house, and so if you’re planning to have one installed, welcome to the club!

However, there are very crucial factors that must be considered before embarking on such a task. One of such factors is if your electrical service can sustain the extra power needed for a swimming pool? To which end, there is a great need to know how much electricity the pool equipment you seek to install will consume.

You need not worry any further. We’ve written this article to let you know just how much electricity installing a new pool will cost you and help you know if upgrading your electrical service will be needed.

A swimming pool comprises several types of equipment that consume quite an awful lot of power.

Below is a list of the common pool equipment and their electricity requirements.

Salt Water Chlorinator: 240v, approx 5-8 amps
Automatic Pool Cover: 220v, 5-7 amps OR 110v, 11-13 amps
Pool Lights: 12v, 3.5 watts each
Self-Contained Hot Tub: 240v 50 amps
LP/NG Pool Heater: 240v, 3 amps
Pool Heat Pump: 240v, 50 amps
Pool Pump: 240v, 10 amps

These numbers might seem confusing and that’s because these things are better handled by a professional electrician to fully ascertain the state of your electrical service and circuits.

Would I Need An Upgrade On My Electrical Service To Install a Swimming Pool?

A service upgrade occurs when your electrician and the power company increase the capacity of your home’s electrical system.

There are a few DIY assessments you can carry out to find out if your home’s electrical service can cope with the installation of a swimming pool.

The availability of more space in your panel box is a sign that your current electric service will most likely be able to manage a regular pool pump and pool lights. You should consult an electrician if you decide to install more power-demanding equipment like a pool heat pump or a hot tub.

What Amount Of Electricity Does A Pool Pump Use?

Pool pumps take about 2,500 kWh per year to filter and circulate about 20,000 gallons of water, which is roughly 5,000 gallons more than the average human will drink in a lifetime. The pool pump is the largest power-using equipment in an average swimming pool, aside from the air conditioner. According to research reports, a pool pump can add up to $300 to an annual electric bill.

If you find it difficult to diagnose the situation yourself, as is often the case, then contact us at The Electric Connection. We not only offer proper guidelines but also offer expert services for every household electrical fixes and installations.

Replacing an Electrical Panel Los Angeles

Posted on January 30, 2021 | by K Hopkins

replace electrical panel Most homeowners find it difficult to assess the condition of the panel in the home. It’s usually because you know so little about how it works.

Thankfully, we can simplify what you need to know about replacing an electrical panel in Los Angeles.

An electrical panel serves two purposes in any building. It provides electricity and ensures safety. An electrical panel in Los Angeles can last about 40-60 years. But age is not a vital factor when you want to determine the condition of the panel. Excessive use, wear, and tear could lead to wires loosening in your electrical panel, accumulation of dust that shortens the lifespan of the panel, and corrosion.

Signs to replace an electrical panel in Los Angeles

The age of your home doesn’t determine how long your electrical panel will remain in good condition. What’s important is that your panel is large enough for your electrical needs and can function properly to provide power and safety. If your panel needs replacing or repairs, there are signs to look out for. They include;

Rusted components

The presence of rust or corrosion in your electrical panel means the panel has been exposed to moisture. You can observe this if you open the breaker box. Rust is never a good sign because water in your panel can be dangerous. The panel will have to be replaced and the source of the rust or moisture determined to prevent it from happening and putting your home at risk again.

Constantly tripping circuit breakers

This is usually where the safety function of the electrical panel comes in. When the circuit breakers sense an overload or power surge in your electric system, they trip off to protect the system. However, constantly tripping circuit breakers are another issue entirely and indicate a fault.

Burn marks in the panel

As the electric panel ages, parts of it may break down and generate heat. This leads to obvious burn marks in the electrical panel, and like rust, it can be very dangerous. The panel will have to be replaced.

Other signs you need to repair or replace your electrical panel are;

The electrical panel is underpowered and not large enough to serve your needs.
Breakers don’t work at all to protect your home.
Old wiring that is no longer safe.
Lights flickering or dimming in the home, especially in an older home with an older panel.
You hear buzzing sounds or perceive strange/burning smells from the electric panel.

Replacing the electrical panel in Los Angeles

Now you’ve seen all the signs or a few. The next step is to call an electrical contractor in Los Angeles to confirm you need a replacement. Replacing an electrical panel can be costly, and this cost is determined by two major factors.

The condition of the panel/scope of the work.
The electrician’s rate.

What’s more important is to get a licensed electrician on the job to make sure you get a proper replacement service.

What Is A Main Panel Upgrade?

Posted on January 19, 2021 | by K Hopkins

los angeles panel upgrade In your utility room, basement, or designated area, you will find a big grey metal box known as the electrical panel. The box comprises a series of wires and circuit breakers that determine where power goes in your home.

An efficient or upgraded main panel determines the right amount of voltage to meter out and ensures power is distributed safely and properly.

A main panel in need of an upgrade is more inconvenient than you would imagine. Hence, when it becomes necessary, don’t hesitate on a main panel upgrade.

The options that come with an upgrade

Upgrading your main panel depends on your precise electrical needs. If you need to upgrade from a smaller panel to a big one, that’s one option. It might be because your current panel can no longer provide enough power. You may also upgrade to fix faulty or damaged parts of the panel. The options usually involved with an electrical panel upgrade include;

Getting a bigger panel to bring more power into your home
Upgrade circuits to meet current National Electrical Code standards.
Replacing damaged or old components.
Increasing the number of circuits so you can add more outlets.

Ask all the right questions first.

To upgrade your main panel, you will need to hire a professional electrician. The electrician should be licensed and experienced in panel upgrades.

But, before you dive into signing any contracts and starting the work, ask the right questions to confirm that you need an upgrade and what to expect.

This is relevant as you may want an upgrade for the wrong reasons. For example, some homeowners take on this project when an electrician performs the inspection to say you need an upgrade; you think your insurance company demands it; you’ve heard something scary about fuses; you experience lights dimming and flickering, and so on. Within this list could easily be someone trying to sell you a bill on what you don’t need and your fear.

An honest electrician can tell you if you really need an upgrade and why. If they don’t tell you why be sure to ask first before agreeing.

When it’s time for the upgrade, the electrician should also have ready,

A detailed electrical estimate of the cost of upgrading the main panel.
Permits sorted before any work can take place.
An installation date on a day with good weather.

What happens when it starts?

A main panel upgrade can be highly disruptive or not so much depending on factors like the work involved and your electrician. It’s best to know what to expect to stay prepared.

The power to your home will be turned off for a minimum of 4 hours to as long as the electrician estimates to finish. During that time your appliances should be unplugged. You can also avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer door until it’s over.

The electricians will need access to your home. They will work mostly around the area of the panel and possibly others like your water tank or meter area. If there is wiring involved, they would work room to room.

How to Pull an Electrical Permit in Los Angeles

Posted on December 23, 2020 | by K Hopkins

pulling permit in los angeles Not all projects require a permit, but most electrical works do. In Los Angeles, it’s easy to pull an electrical permit if you meet all the requirements. Since pulling permits differ from state to state, we have put together the Los Angeles guide you need.

An electrical permit is an approval you get from your building department to go ahead with electrical projects in a home.

In Los Angeles, you will need electrical permits for any kind of electrical works. These include work related to;

All residential and commercial buildings
Installing a new electrical panel
Installing a new sub panel
New buildings or addition to a building
Any electrical installations over 600 volts.
Installations of lighting including exits lighting and security lighting.
Installations in hazardous locations.
New, expanded, or replaced electrical items
Installation of a complicated electrical system as determined by the Department, such as Emergency, Legally Required Standby, Fire Alarm, and Gas Detection Systems.

The Permit Process

To pull an electrical permit in Los Angeles, you must first file electrical plans with the indicated department. These plans and the first step are referred to as electrical plan check. Only when this plan check has been approved or deemed not required will a permit be issued.

Electrical permits in Los Angeles can also only be issued to an electrical contractor with the appropriate license, the property owner, and or an agent representing either the contractor or the property owner.

Why it’s important to pull a permit when necessary?

Pulling a permit in Los Angeles may seem like a hassle to you, but it’s necessary if you want to avoid certain unfriendly situations. Electrical work carried out without a permit is considered illegal. Such unpermitted work can cause even more problems in the future if the option of a resale comes up. There’s also no assurance that the work was done up to code.

Where can I obtain the permit in Los Angeles and how much time is involved?

You can obtain an electrical permit from the local Building and Safety District Office serving your area. For online permits, you can go through Los Angeles County’s Electronic Permitting and Inspection (EPIC LA).

For simple projects that do not require a plan check, you can get an express permit when you apply online.

For small-medium projects, a plan check can take 45-60 minutes and as the projects get larger, plan checks extend to even weeks.

After obtaining the permit, the permit expires within 12 months if work has not started from the time it was issued.

It’s possible to get an extension on your permit, but that might require an extra fee.

How to make obtaining an electrical permit in LA easy

Start by hiring a professional and licensed electrician for your electrical needs. It’s legal, easier, and safer to let this experienced technician pull the permit for your project. All you will need to do is likely to bear the cost.

Licensed electricians can get permits faster and pass inspections easily too. They are also updated on current codes, and this saves you any future problems.

Category: Panel Upgrades