Some panel brands and wiring types can make an older home harder to insure. Here is what to watch for.
Key takeaways
- Federal Pacific Stab-Lok and Zinsco panels are commonly flagged by insurers.
- Fuse panels, aluminum branch wiring and cloth or knob and tube wiring often require updates.
- Double tapped breakers and missing covers are safety items that are usually easy to fix.
- Any electrical repair should be done by a licensed electrician.
The electrical panel is one of the first things insurers look at on an older home. Certain brands and wiring types have histories that make insurance companies cautious.
Panels insurers commonly flag
- Federal Pacific Electric (Stab-Lok): widely reported to have breakers that may not trip as intended.
- Zinsco and Sylvania Zinsco: known for breakers and bus bars that can overheat.
- Fuse panels: outdated and easy to overload by installing the wrong size fuse.
- Some older or undersized services: for example, very low amperage services for today's usage.
Wiring types to know
- Aluminum branch wiring: used in some homes from the mid 1960s to the 1970s. Connections can loosen and overheat without proper repairs.
- Cloth wrapped and knob and tube wiring: rare in Florida but found in some very old homes.
Common, easier fixes
- Double tapped breakers, where two wires share a terminal not designed for it
- Missing knockouts or panel cover screws
- Missing GFCI protection in kitchens, baths, garages and outdoors
- Open junction boxes and exposed splices
What buyers can do
If a panel or wiring type is flagged, get a quote from a licensed electrician during your inspection period. A panel replacement is often a manageable project, and completing it before closing can make insurance much easier. Your 4-Point Inspection will document the updated panel.
Frequently asked questions
Will every insurer refuse a Federal Pacific panel?
Not every insurer, but many require replacement or charge more. Ask your agent how your carrier handles it.
How long does a panel replacement take?
Often a day of work plus permitting and utility coordination. A licensed electrician can give you a timeline.
