During a recent 4-point inspection in Brevard County, I walked into a home and found something that still manages to surprise me — not one, but two Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels. One 200-amp main panel and one 100-amp sub. And yep, both of them were original. The kicker? The client already knew about the problem and still had insurance. Let’s unpack why that’s such a big deal.
What Is a Federal Pacific Electric Panel?
Federal Pacific Electric was a major electrical panel manufacturer from the 1950s through the 1980s. Their flagship product line, the Stab-Lok circuit breakers, was installed in millions of American homes. But by the 1980s, independent testing showed what inspectors had long suspected: the breakers failed to trip during overloads or short circuits.
That’s not just a minor issue — it’s a fire hazard.
In fact, a Consumer Product Safety Commission investigation from 2002 estimated that FPE panels are responsible for as many as 2,800 fires per year in the U.S. And because of their unique design flaws — like loose breakers, arcing, and failed trip mechanisms — they’re considered uninsurable by most carriers today.
Why Are These Panels Still in Homes?
The answer is a mix of legacy coverage, oversight, and risk tolerance:
- Legacy Policies: Some homeowners still have insurance because their policy predates modern underwriting requirements. If they’ve stayed with the same carrier and haven’t made changes, it might be grandfathered in.
- Surplus Lines or Risk-Tolerant Carriers: Non-admitted insurers sometimes accept homes with FPE panels, often at higher premiums or with required upgrades.
- Underwriting Gaps: Some panels just slip through the cracks. Maybe the last inspector didn’t flag it, or the photos weren’t reviewed properly.
But make no mistake: if you’re buying a home or switching insurance in Florida, these panels are a problem.
Why This Matters for Florida Homeowners
FPE panels are a huge issue during 4-point inspections. If one is discovered, here’s what you can expect:
- Insurance Denial or Cancellation
- Required Panel Replacement Before Coverage Begins
- Out-of-pocket Upgrade Costs
If you live in Vero Beach, Sebastian, Fellsmere, or anywhere in Brevard or Indian River County, and your home was built between 1950 and 1985, it’s worth checking.
What Should You Do If You Have One?
- Do not open it yourself. FPE panels are known to arc when disturbed.
- Get a licensed electrician to confirm. Many panels have worn labeling or deceptive branding.
- Plan for replacement. Don’t just patch it — these panels need to go.
A new panel isn’t cheap, but neither is losing your home to a fire or being denied coverage in the middle of hurricane season.
Sean’s Advice
I see a lot of weird stuff in this job. But the fact that Federal Pacific panels are still hanging on in 2025 blows my mind. We know they’re defective. We know they fail. We know they’ve caused fires. Yet people still roll the dice.
If you have one, replace it. If you’re buying a home with one, budget for it. If your inspector doesn’t call it out — call me instead.
At SW Inspections, we don’t just check boxes — we look out for you.
Need a home inspection in Indian River or Brevard County? Reach out anytime.
SW Inspections LLC https://swinspectionsllc.com