Electrical Panels That Can Get Your Home Insurance Denied or Cancelled in Florida

Older homes often come with hidden surprises—some charming, some costly. One of the most overlooked (and most important) systems in your home is your electrical panel. If you're buying or insuring a home in Florida, an outdated or recalled panel can cause your home to fail a 4-point inspection and make it difficult—or impossible—to get homeowners insurance.

In this article, we’ll explain what electrical panels do, which ones are red flags for insurers, and what you can do if your home has one of these problematic systems.

What Is an Electrical Panel and Why Does It Matter?

Your electrical panel is like the control center for all the electricity in your home. It takes power from your utility company and distributes it to different circuits—your lights, appliances, outlets, HVAC, and more. Each circuit is protected by a breaker, which is designed to shut off power when something goes wrong (like an overload or short).

If the panel itself or the breakers inside are defective, they may fail to trip during an electrical fault—leading to overheating, arcing, or even a fire. That’s why insurers and home inspectors pay close attention to which panel you have.

Panels That Raise Red Flags During 4-Point Inspections

1. Federal Pacific Electric (FPE)

• Years used: 1950s–1980s
• Problem: Stab-Lok breakers often fail to trip, creating a major fire risk.
• What it looks like: Panel door marked "FPE" or "Federal Pacific," breakers labeled "Stab-Lok."
• Insurance stance: Most insurers will decline coverage until the panel is replaced.

2. Zinsco / Sylvania Panels

• Years used: 1950s–1970s
• Problem: Breakers can fuse to the bus bar and stay live even when switched off.
• What it looks like: Vertical rows of colorful breakers, marked Zinsco or Sylvania.
• Insurance stance: Usually rejected by insurers. Replacement required.

3. Challenger Panels

• Years used: 1980s–1990s
• Problem: Known to overheat and were involved in recalls. Issues worsen with age.
• What it looks like: Panel or breakers labeled "Challenger."
• Insurance stance: Increasingly flagged. Some insurers allow temporary coverage with a required upgrade.

4. Pushmatic Panels (Honorable Mention)

• Problem: Difficult to service, no longer manufactured, and prone to failure.
• Insurance stance: Often flagged, though not as strictly as the panels above.

What to Do If Your Panel Is on This List

✅ Schedule a Licensed Electrician Inspection

Get a professional assessment and a quote for replacement.

✅ Plan for Replacement

Replacing a panel typically costs $2,500–$5,000 for a 200-amp service. Some local jurisdictions or utilities may offer assistance programs.

✅ Document Everything

Keep all invoices, photos, and reports. Some insurers may accept proof of upgrade.

✅ Talk to Your Insurance Agent Early

We help Florida homeowners navigate panel issues every day. We can connect you with insurers who understand and accommodate upgrades.

Related Reading

• What is a 4-Point Inspection in Florida and Why It Matters
• Aluminum, Cloth, and Knob & Tube Wiring: A Florida Home Insurance Dealbreaker?
• Common Electrical Issues That Will Fail a 4-Point Inspection in Florida
• How to Fix Electrical Issues Without Breaking the Bank

Need help getting homeowners insurance with an outdated panel?

Contact Augustyniak Insurance today. We’ll help you find the right carrier and get your home covered—safely.