[KerrAvon]

I’m a little skeptical. California code is not that dissimilar to the national code in terms of labor and materials. I’ve had extensive work done to my California house by electricians for a (fully-permitted) remodel and it’s been pricey but not that slow or pricey.

[bushbaba]

In California it Cost me 3k to upgrade an electric panel from 120 to 200amp service. Was a one day job with a single electrician.

[YATA0]

That's probably the cheapest upgrade in the history of the state. PG&E claims the average service upgrade in California is costing somewhere between $8k to $25k.

[pkaye]

I had panel upgrade in the bay area back in 2019 which cost $3200. Changed the service panel, weatherhead and ground rods.

[YATA0]

Overhead service is definitely the cheapest upgrade. No trenching and underground conduit required.

[bombcar]

Probably depends on if you have to pay PG&E for their side or if it’s just a panel swap.

[bushbaba]

It was just a panel swap. But I did have PGE come out to disconnect and re-connect service. It also required a permit and inspection from the city.

[YATA0]

Ah. Yes that's about right for a panel swap. Upgrading the service conductors is what costs $$$.

[bombcar]

You also have situations like my friend - his current 100 amp service is arial, but if he wants to upgrade to 200 amp service he will have to pay for buried line.

Amusingly enough you can add a separate 100 amp service arial if you convert to a duplex even if just on paper ...