If you’re buying or selling a home, or working in the insurance or real estate industry, you may have heard rumors that certain Square D electrical panels aren’t being accepted by insurance carriers. While Square D is a well-respected brand in the electrical industry, there have been some concerns and official recalls tied to specific products and manufacturing years. In this post, we’ll break down what you need to know.
1. 2022 Recall – QO Plug-On Neutral Load Centers
- Affected Models: Square D QO Plug-On Neutral Load Centers
- Manufactured Between: February 2020 and January 2022
- The Problem: These panels may have a loose neutral screw connection, which can lead to overheating and pose a serious fire hazard.
- Recall Info: CPSC Recall Notice
2. 2014 Recall – F and K Frame Circuit Breakers
- Affected Products: Square D brand F and K frame circuit breakers
- Manufactured: May through June 2013
- The Problem: These breakers could fail to trip during an overload, creating a fire, burn, or electric shock hazard.
- Recall Info: CPSC Recall Notice
3. 2004–2009 – AFCI Breaker Reliability Concerns
- The Concern: Square D AFCI breakers manufactured during this timeframe have been found in some tests and reports to occasionally fail to trip during arc faults.
- Note: There was no official recall, but reliability concerns have been raised by electricians, inspectors, and insurance underwriters.
4. Late 1980s to Early 1990s Panels
- The Concern: Panels from this era, particularly those with aluminum bus bars, are now over 30 years old and may be past their useful life. Some may not be able to handle modern electrical loads safely.
- Insurance Perspective: While not recalled, many insurance companies are wary of these older panels and may flag them during underwriting.
5. 1998–2002 Homeline Breakers
- The Concern: Some Homeline breakers from this period were reported to have mechanical reliability issues, including handles that stick or fail to reset properly.
- Note: These issues were not officially recalled but have contributed to concerns in the industry.
Why Insurance Companies Care Insurance companies assess risk based on past performance and claim data. If certain electrical panels have been linked to fire risks or mechanical failure—even without a recall—they may be added to internal lists of components to avoid. This can result in denial of coverage or higher premiums.
If you’re unsure about the panel in a home you’re insuring or purchasing, a licensed home inspector can help identify the brand, age, and condition of the panel—and recommend whether further evaluation by an electrician is needed.
Need Help? As licensed home inspectors in Florida, we’re here to help you identify potential electrical panel issues before they become insurance headaches. Reach out if you have any questions or need an inspection on a property.
Stay safe,
SW Inspections