Service & Meter Upgrade
Your service is the utility line to your meter and main. Upgrading it raises your power.
Signs your panel or wiring needs attention
- You need more than your service delivers
- Rusted or damaged meter-main
- Utility flagged your service entrance
- Moving the panel to a new spot
How the job goes, start to finish
- Check service size, mast, meter socket, main
- File the utility disconnect and get it on the calendar
- Replace service entrance, meter socket and main under permit
- Coordinate the reconnect, pass inspection
How much does a service and meter upgrade cost?
| Job | Typical range |
|---|---|
| 200 amp panel and service upgrade | $5,500 to $11,500 |
| 400 amp service upgrade | $15,500 to $28,000 |
Before permit and utility fees. Prices updated October 2026.
What moves the price
- Amperage: same as now, 200 amps, or 400 amps
- Separate meter and main, or a combined unit
- Utility rules for the mast, meter socket and service entrance
- How many circuits move or extend to the new panel
- Grounding, bonding and surge protection up to current code
- City permit fees, which vary
Permits for panel and wiring work
Panel and service work needs a permit and a city or county inspection. Meter work also needs a utility disconnect, on the utility's schedule and fees. Each fee is listed separately.
Brands we install
Brand names and logos are trademarks of their owners and are shown to identify the equipment we install and service. Chief Electric installs and services SPAN equipment. Chief Electric is an independent contractor and is not affiliated with these manufacturers.
The offer for this service
Panel and wiring questions
How long does the utility take on a service upgrade?
It varies by utility and season. They set the schedule; we keep you posted.
Is the meter mine or the utility's?
The meter is the utility's. The socket and everything past it is yours.
Do you charge for the quote?
No. An electrician looks at the job in person and quotes it, free.