So occasionally the lights will dim or a breaker will throw if we have too many things turned on. I looked and it's an old Federal Pacific Stab-Lok panel. I believe there's been a recall on them for fire hazards and maybe even out of code now. Would American Homeshield replace it for me or will I have to shell out the 1500 bucks?

Call them and ask

pre-existing? not likely


but you may have recourse against your inspector.

The load at the time of inspection was probably handled ok. Since adding a new fridge (moved the old one to the garage for a beer fridge) and added a big screen TV that has upped the load. So it's my fault that the load is higher, I was just curious as to whether or not they'd cover it. I'll give em a call.

If the panel was subject to recall at the time of inspection, I would be a little miffed at my inspector.

As someone who works for a manufacturer in the industry, before you shell out a $1500 deductible (I'm assuming that's what you are talking about), get an estimate first. I doubt it would be that high.

And Deats is right, if the inspector passed a recalled panel, it's his responsibility.

But in all honesty, be prepared to have to pay for it out of your own pocket. The hassle of having to get this replaced by the inspector isn't worth saving the money.

More info on your problem:
http://www.inspect-ny.com/fpe/fpepanel.htm

One other thing to add, if the panel was not in recall at the time of inspection, then it's on you to have it replaced. Previous items and techniques are grandfathered in when a new code comes out. The only time it would have to be replaced is at the time of rennovation requiring an electrical permit to be pulled.

I had an old panel (not sure of the make or model) that passed inspection, but was later replaced in full by American Homeshield for my $50 deductible. I had the same problems -- lights dimming and then regaining power, coming home to blinking clocks, etc.

The repair guy diagnosed it as an old panel with loose fittings, so they put in a brand-new one. Brilliant. (At the time, two years ago, he said it was probably a $1,200 repair if I had to pay for it myself.)

my panel was grandfathered in so we still have it. too bad i didn't think about whether it had "loose fittings" dangit.

I would assume that your home warranty would not cover that, but you will never know for sure until you ask. I hope they do cover it for you.

I think it's generally safe to assume that American Home Shield or whatever "warranty" company will not pay for anything and then be pleasantly surprised on the rare occasion that they do pay out.

I am a firm believer that those companies are a scam and a waste of money.

[This message has been edited by dgb99 (edited 12/26/2007 7:42p).]

We moved into a 1973 vintage home when we moved up from Houston and AHS has been very good to us. It won't save you from having to make needed upgrades and purchases you should expect as a homeowner, but they do work for maintaining older items until replacement IMO.