What drives the price in Northern Virginia
Three things move the number: meter base condition, service drop type, and how many branch circuits need re-termination. Newer Arlington and Alexandria homes are often plug-and-play. Older McLean and Falls Church properties tend to need new grounding, mast rebuilds, and AFCI/GFCI breaker swaps.
Typical 2026 pricing across Northern VA
- 100A to 200A overhead service upgrade: $2,800 – $4,800
- 200A panel-only replacement: $2,300 – $3,500
- 400A or dual-200A service: $6,800 – $12,000
- Federal Pacific or Zinsco replacement: $2,700 – $4,400
- Surge protection add-on: $400 – $700
- EV-ready 60A circuit with the upgrade: $700 – $1,300
Underground services (common in newer McLean and Reston subdivisions) require trench coordination and add $600–$1,800 depending on length and surface restoration.
Permits by county
- Arlington County: 1–3 day plan review, same-week inspection
- Fairfax County: 1–5 day plan review, same-week inspection
- City of Alexandria: 1–3 day plan review, same-week inspection
- City of Falls Church: 1–3 day plan review, same-week inspection
We pull every permit under a licensed Virginia licensed electrician's license, not the homeowner's.
Dominion Energy coordination
For overhead drops, Dominion needs a Service Order with about 5 business days of notice. We file the order, set the cut-and-reconnect window, and run temporary power if needed for occupied homes.
What's included in our Northern Virginia panel upgrades
- Square D QO or Siemens main panel
- New meter base if existing shows heat damage
- New grounding electrodes and bonding
- Type-2 whole-home surge protector
- AFCI/GFCI breakers per current NEC
- Permit, inspection, and Dominion coordination
- Printed circuit directory and torque-marked terminations
Contact a licensed electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, or Northern Virginia at (202) 926-7065 or request a free estimate for a planned electrical project. Estimates for planned installations and upgrades are free. For troubleshooting requests, our team will explain any applicable charges before confirming an appointment.
