Electrical panels are not something most property owners focus on until they become an issue. Increasingly, insurance carriers are forcing that conversation.
Across many multifamily properties, insurance providers are flagging Zinsco and Pushmatic panels for review, and in some cases requiring replacement or upgrades to maintain coverage.
Why These Panels Are Being Flagged
Zinsco electrical panels and Pushmatic panels are older systems that are no longer installed in modern construction.
Over time, these panels may present elevated risk due to:
- Age and wear of internal components
- Limited availability of replacement parts
- Increased electrical demand compared to when they were originally installed
- Differences from current electrical standards
Because of these factors, many insurance carriers now evaluate these panels more closely during underwriting and renewals.
What We’re Seeing from Insurance Carriers
While requirements vary, a consistent trend is emerging across multifamily properties:
- Requests for panel identification during underwriting
- Recommendations or requirements for replacement
- Increased premiums for properties with older electrical systems
- Potential non-renewal if upgrades are not addressed
For property owners, this has shifted from a maintenance decision to a risk and compliance issue.
Impact on Multifamily Property Owners
If these panels are flagged, property owners may face:
- Pressure to complete upgrades within a specific timeframe
- Higher insurance costs
- Difficulty securing or renewing coverage
- Increased liability exposure
Waiting too long can limit options and force reactive decisions.
What Typically Gets Addressed
Depending on the property and carrier requirements, upgrades may include:
- Replacement of existing panels
- Meter bank upgrades
- Main disconnects and distribution equipment
- Feeder adjustments where required
Each property is different, and scope should be evaluated individually.
Planning the Upgrade Properly
Panel and meter bank replacements in multifamily buildings require coordination.
Key considerations:
- Tenant communication and scheduling
- Utility coordination
- Phased work to minimize disruption
- Temporary power where needed
Proper planning allows the work to be completed efficiently and with minimal impact to residents.
Why Acting Early Matters
Property owners who address these issues early are able to:
- Maintain insurance coverage without disruption
- Avoid premium increases where possible
- Plan upgrades on their timeline
- Reduce long-term risk across the property
Delaying often results in compressed timelines and higher costs.
Bottom Line
Zinsco and Pushmatic panels are increasingly being scrutinized by insurance carriers due to age and risk factors.
If your property still has these systems, it is worth evaluating them proactively before it becomes a requirement.
If you own or manage a multifamily property, consider having your electrical system evaluated to understand:
- Whether your equipment may be flagged
- What upgrades may be recommended
- How to plan improvements without disruption