FAST ELECTRIC SPOKANE · GUIDE
How a panel upgrade works with Avista in Spokane
A panel upgrade touches three parties: you, your electrician and Avista (or Inland Power outside Avista territory). Here is the order of events so nothing surprises you.
Updated October 16, 2026
Published October 16, 2026
Step 1: Assessment and quote
We look at your existing panel, the service entrance cable, the meter base and grounding, and talk through what you want to add - an EV charger, a hot tub, more circuits. You get a written scope before anything is scheduled.
Step 2: The permit
A panel upgrade always needs an electrical permit. Inside Spokane city limits the permit comes from the City of Spokane; everywhere else in Spokane County it comes from Washington State L&I. The contractor buys the permit - if anyone suggests skipping it, walk away. See how electrical permits work in Spokane.
Step 3: Scheduling the utility
Only the utility can disconnect and reconnect the service drop or the meter. We schedule the disconnect and reconnect with Avista - or with Inland Power & Light for the north county properties they serve - so the outage window is as short as possible. Utility scheduling often drives the overall timeline, so the earlier this step starts, the better.
Step 4: The work day
Power goes off in the morning, the old panel comes out, the new panel, breakers, grounding and usually the meter base and service entrance go in. Most homes are without power for a good part of one working day. Plan for the fridge, Wi-Fi and any medical equipment.
Step 5: Inspection and power back on
The inspector signs off the work, the utility reconnects, and power is restored. You get the permit record for your files - it matters at sale time and for insurance.
Ready to talk through yours? Call (509) 239-5654. Our panel upgrades page covers the service itself, and the cost guide explains what moves the price.
Common questions
How long does a panel upgrade take?
The physical work is usually one day, with power off for much of it. The overall timeline is set by the permit and the utility’s disconnect and reconnect scheduling, which can add days to weeks.
Who schedules Avista for the disconnect?
Your electrician schedules the utility disconnect and reconnect as part of the job - you should not have to coordinate that yourself.
Does the power stay off overnight?
Normally no. The goal is always same-day reconnection after inspection. In rare cases - a failed inspection or a utility scheduling slip - it can stretch, and your electrician should tell you the backup plan before work starts.
LET'S TALK ELECTRICAL
Tell us what you need.
We'll talk through the next step.
Fast Electric Spokane · 12 N Grant St, Spokane, WA 99202