Monroe County has a lot of housing stock from the 1950s through 1980s — and many of those homes were built with Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Stab-Lok panels. If you have one, here's what you actually need to know.
What's the Problem with Federal Pacific Panels?
Federal Pacific Electric was one of the largest panel manufacturers in the US from the 1950s through the 1980s. The problem: a 2002 investigation found that FPE Stab-Lok breakers fail to trip at a significantly higher rate than listed. A breaker that doesn't trip when it should allows a circuit to overheat — which can start a fire.
The specific failure mode is that the breaker may visually appear to trip but internally remain conducting current. This is more dangerous than a breaker that simply fails to trip, because the visual indicator gives a false sense of safety.
It's worth noting: having a Federal Pacific panel doesn't mean your home is on the verge of burning down. Many are in service with no incident. But the failure rate is well above acceptable, and the risk is real — particularly in older panels that have been in service for 40–50 years.
How Common Are They in Rochester?
Very common. Federal Pacific was one of the dominant panel brands in the Rochester and Monroe County market through the 1970s. If your home was built between 1955 and 1983, there's a meaningful chance it has an FPE Stab-Lok panel. We see them regularly throughout Greece, Irondequoit, Gates, Brighton, and any other Monroe County suburb with homes from that era.
What Do Insurance Companies in Monroe County Require?
This is the practical question most homeowners face. Many major insurers writing policies in Monroe County have updated their underwriting guidelines to treat Federal Pacific panels as a surcharge, coverage exclusion, or outright refusal. Some will insure the home but exclude electrical fire coverage. Others will require replacement as a condition of renewal.
If you're buying or selling a Rochester home with a Federal Pacific panel, expect it to come up during the inspection. Many buyers' agents now flag it as a negotiating point or require replacement before closing.
Are You Legally Required to Replace It?
No. New York State does not require you to replace an existing Federal Pacific panel unless you're pulling a permit for work that triggers a full inspection of the electrical system. The NEC is adopted for new construction and renovation, not retroactively applied to existing installations.
However, the practical pressure from insurance companies and real estate transactions means most Monroe County homeowners with FPE panels end up replacing them eventually.
What Should You Do?
Free Panel Assessment in Rochester
We'll look at your panel, tell you exactly what condition it's in, and give you honest advice — not a sales pitch. Free estimates throughout Monroe County.
Call (585) 371-8893Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have a Federal Pacific panel in my Rochester home?
Open your electrical panel door. If it says 'Federal Pacific Electric' or 'Stab-Lok' on the breakers or panel interior, you have one. They were installed in homes built primarily from the 1950s through 1980s. Call (585) 371-8893 for a free assessment.
Do I have to replace a Federal Pacific panel in New York State?
You are not legally required to replace a Federal Pacific panel unless you're doing a renovation that triggers a full inspection. However, many Monroe County insurance companies require replacement as a condition of coverage.
How much does it cost to replace a Federal Pacific panel in Rochester, NY?
Replacing a Federal Pacific panel in Rochester typically runs $5,800–$6,800 depending on your current service amperage and whether the meter base needs replacement. Call (585) 371-8893 for a free on-site estimate.
Will my homeowner's insurance cover a Federal Pacific panel in Rochester?
Many Monroe County insurance companies will surcharge, refuse to renew, or require replacement of Federal Pacific panels as a condition of coverage. Check your policy or call your insurer for their specific requirements.