Case Study: How Our Electrical Services Boosted a Local LA Business

Introduction

When a thriving medical office building in West Los Angeles contacted Shaffer Construction, Inc. in early 2025, they were facing a critical problem that threatened their expansion plans. The building, originally constructed in 1987, housed three medical practices serving the local community. The property owner wanted to add a fourth suite and install electric vehicle charging stations for staff and patients, but their outdated electrical infrastructure simply could not support the additional load.

This case study examines how Shaffer Construction's comprehensive electrical services transformed this property's capabilities, enabling the owner to move forward with their expansion while achieving full code compliance and positioning the building for future growth. Our team conducted a detailed electrical load study, upgraded the main electrical panel from 400 amps to 800 amps, and created the infrastructure necessary for Level 2 EV charging stations. The project demonstrates the critical importance of proper electrical planning for Los Angeles commercial properties and the tangible benefits that professional electrical upgrades can deliver.

The Problem: An Outdated Electrical System Holding Back Growth

The medical office building's electrical challenges were typical of many commercial properties built in the 1980s. The facility operated on a 400-amp electrical service with an aging main panel that had been installed nearly four decades earlier. While this capacity had been adequate when the building first opened with just two small medical suites, the property had since expanded to three full practices, each equipped with modern medical equipment, computers, HVAC systems, and patient amenities.

The property owner had ambitious but reasonable expansion plans. They wanted to convert unused storage space on the ground floor into a fourth medical suite, which would require electrical service for examination rooms, medical equipment, computers, lighting, and climate control. Additionally, they recognized the growing demand for electric vehicle charging among their staff and patients. However, preliminary discussions with their existing electrician revealed a concerning reality: the building's electrical system was already operating near capacity, and any significant additions would overload the system.

The symptoms were already becoming apparent. During peak hours when all three practices were running simultaneously, lights would occasionally dim when large equipment cycled on. The building's air conditioning struggled to maintain comfortable temperatures on hot summer days, and circuit breakers had tripped on several occasions. Beyond capacity issues, the aging electrical panel posed safety concerns. The equipment predated many modern safety requirements established by the National Electrical Code, lacking arc-fault and ground-fault protection that are now standard in commercial installations.

The property owner needed more than a quick fix. They needed a comprehensive solution that would support their immediate expansion plans while providing sufficient capacity for future growth. This is where Shaffer Construction's expertise in electrical system upgrades and load planning became invaluable.

The Assessment: Load Study and Code Compliance Review

Before proposing any solutions, our team at Shaffer Construction conducted a thorough electrical load study and code compliance assessment. This critical first step allowed us to understand exactly what the building needed and develop a comprehensive upgrade plan. As we often explain to property owners, proper load calculation is the foundation of any successful electrical upgrade project.

Our licensed electricians began by documenting all existing electrical loads in the building. We catalogued every piece of equipment, lighting fixture, HVAC unit, medical device, and electrical system drawing power from the main panel. We measured actual current draw during peak operating hours and identified potential inefficiencies in the existing system. This process revealed that the building was consistently operating at approximately 85 percent of its rated capacity during business hours, leaving virtually no headroom for expansion.

Next, we calculated the projected loads for the proposed fourth medical suite. Medical offices have unique electrical requirements, including specialized equipment, computers, monitors, examination lights, autoclaves, refrigeration for medications, and robust HVAC systems to maintain patient comfort and air quality. Based on standard medical office requirements and the owner's build-out plans, we estimated the new suite would add approximately 150 amps of demand to the system.

The electric vehicle charging infrastructure presented another significant consideration. According to the International Energy Agency's Global EV Outlook 2025, commercial buildings must significantly expand charging capacity to meet growing demand. The property owner wanted to install four Level 2 charging stations, each capable of delivering 40 amps at 240 volts. With smart load management, this would require approximately 100 amps of dedicated capacity.

Our assessment revealed that meeting the building's current and projected needs would require upgrading to an 800-amp service. This capacity would support all existing operations, the new medical suite, the EV charging infrastructure, and still provide approximately 20 percent reserve capacity for future expansion. This reserve capacity is essential for commercial properties, as the Department of Energy's Better Buildings Solution Center notes that many commercial buildings face limited additional capacity for new electrical loads.

We also conducted a comprehensive code compliance review. The existing panel lacked many safety features required in modern installations, including adequate arc-fault circuit interrupter protection and proper grounding systems. Our team documented all code deficiencies and incorporated necessary upgrades into our proposal. As experienced Los Angeles electrical contractors, Shaffer Construction ensures that every project meets current National Electrical Code requirements and local Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety standards.

The Solution: Comprehensive Electrical Panel Upgrade

With a clear understanding of the building's needs, Shaffer Construction developed a comprehensive electrical upgrade plan. The project would involve coordinating with Los Angeles Department of Water and Power for utility upgrades, replacing the main electrical panel, updating electrical distribution throughout the building, and installing dedicated circuits for the new medical suite and EV charging infrastructure.

Our first step was coordinating with LADWP to upgrade the electrical service from 400 amps to 800 amps. This required installing new service conductors from the utility transformer to the building, which our team carefully scheduled to minimize disruption to the medical practices. We worked closely with the building manager to plan the utility cutover during a weekend when all practices were closed, ensuring no interruption to patient care.

The main panel replacement was the heart of the project. Shaffer Construction removed the aging 400-amp panel and installed a new 800-amp main distribution panel with modern circuit protection, proper labeling, and space for future expansion. The new panel included arc-fault circuit interrupters and ground-fault circuit interrupters as required by current code, significantly improving electrical safety. We installed the panel in compliance with NEC requirements for accessibility, clearance, and labeling, ensuring that building maintenance staff could safely access and operate the system.

For the new medical suite, our electricians installed dedicated sub-panels and circuits to support all anticipated electrical loads. We provided separate circuits for medical equipment, general lighting, task lighting, computers and IT infrastructure, HVAC systems, and emergency lighting. This approach ensures reliable power distribution and allows individual circuits to be isolated for maintenance without affecting other building operations.

The electric vehicle charging infrastructure required specialized planning. We installed a dedicated 100-amp sub-panel specifically for EV charging, with individual circuits for four Level 2 charging stations. Shaffer Construction incorporated smart load management technology that allows the charging stations to communicate and coordinate their power draw, preventing the system from exceeding its rated capacity when multiple vehicles charge simultaneously. This technology is essential for efficient EV charging in commercial settings, as it maximizes the number of vehicles that can charge without requiring excessive electrical capacity.

Throughout the project, our team maintained detailed documentation, obtained all necessary permits from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety, and coordinated inspections to ensure full code compliance. This attention to regulatory requirements protected the property owner from future liability and ensured the system would pass any future inspections or due diligence reviews. Our electrical load study and panel upgrade services always include comprehensive permitting and inspection coordination as standard practice.

The Results: Increased Capacity and EV-Ready Infrastructure

The electrical upgrade delivered immediate and long-term benefits for the medical office building. Most importantly, the property owner could now move forward with their expansion plans. The new 800-amp service provided ample capacity for the fourth medical suite, which was completed three months after the electrical work finished. The suite was quickly leased to a dermatology practice, providing the property owner with additional rental income and serving the healthcare needs of the West Los Angeles community.

The electric vehicle charging stations became operational immediately upon project completion. The property owner installed four Level 2 chargers in designated parking spaces, offering charging as an amenity to medical staff and patients. This forward-thinking addition positioned the building as a modern, sustainable facility that meets the needs of EV drivers. According to research we reference in our guide on preparing Los Angeles buildings for the EV charging boom, properties with charging infrastructure are increasingly attractive to tenants and visitors alike.

The electrical system's improved reliability was immediately noticeable. The dimming lights and occasional circuit breaker trips that had plagued the building disappeared. The new panel's properly sized circuits and modern circuit protection ensured stable, reliable power delivery throughout the facility. Medical practices could operate their equipment with confidence, knowing the electrical system would support their needs.

Safety improvements were equally significant. The new panel's arc-fault and ground-fault protection substantially reduced fire and electrical shock risks. The proper grounding and bonding systems protected both building occupants and sensitive medical equipment. The accessible panel location and clear labeling made it easier for building maintenance staff to respond to any electrical issues quickly and safely.

Perhaps most valuable was the reserve capacity the upgrade provided. With approximately 20 percent of capacity still available after all improvements, the property owner has flexibility for future expansion. Whether they choose to add more EV charging stations, upgrade to faster DC charging, install solar panels with battery storage, or expand existing medical suites, the electrical infrastructure can accommodate these changes without requiring another major upgrade.

The financial impact was also positive. While the electrical upgrade represented a significant upfront investment of approximately 95,000 dollars, the property owner quickly realized returns. The new medical suite generates substantial additional rental income, the EV charging stations can be monetized if desired, and the improved electrical system reduced insurance costs by addressing fire safety concerns. The property's market value increased as well, as modern electrical infrastructure is a key consideration for commercial real estate buyers.

Lessons Learned and Benefits for Other Los Angeles Businesses

This case study offers valuable lessons for Los Angeles property owners, business operators, and facility managers considering electrical upgrades. The first and most important lesson is that electrical load planning should precede any major expansion or renovation. Too often, property owners develop detailed plans for physical improvements without adequately assessing whether their electrical system can support these changes. This can lead to costly delays, compromised functionality, or the need for expensive last-minute electrical work.

Shaffer Construction recommends that property owners conduct electrical load studies well before finalizing expansion plans. This allows the electrical upgrade to be incorporated into the overall project timeline and budget. In the case of the West Los Angeles medical building, the early load study revealed the extent of the required upgrades, allowing the property owner to budget appropriately and sequence the work efficiently. Property owners interested in understanding their building's electrical capacity should explore our comprehensive guide to EV charging infrastructure planning for insights into the assessment process.

Another critical lesson is the importance of planning for future needs, not just current requirements. The property owner wisely chose to upgrade to 800 amps rather than simply meeting their immediate 700-amp requirement. This reserve capacity provides flexibility for future growth and changing needs. In the rapidly evolving landscape of building electrification, EV charging, and renewable energy, this flexibility is increasingly valuable. Buildings that can accommodate future electrical loads without major infrastructure changes have a significant competitive advantage.

The case study also demonstrates the value of proper permitting and code compliance. While unpermitted electrical work might seem attractive from a cost perspective, it creates serious liability risks and can complicate property sales, refinancing, or insurance claims. The Shaffer Construction approach of obtaining proper permits, coordinating inspections, and ensuring full code compliance protects property owners from these risks. Additionally, work performed to current code standards is inherently safer, reducing fire and electrical shock hazards.

For businesses considering electric vehicle charging infrastructure, this case demonstrates the importance of integrated planning. Rather than treating EV charging as an afterthought or separate project, the property owner incorporated it into their comprehensive electrical upgrade. This approach was more cost-effective than conducting separate projects and ensured that the charging infrastructure was properly integrated into the building's electrical system. Property owners exploring commercial EV charging solutions should consider how these systems integrate with their overall electrical infrastructure.

The project also highlights the value of working with experienced electrical contractors who understand the unique requirements of Los Angeles commercial properties. Shaffer Construction's familiarity with LADWP procedures, Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety permit requirements, and local code interpretations streamlined the project and avoided potential delays. Our team's experience with medical office electrical systems ensured that the new suite had appropriate circuits and protection for sensitive medical equipment.

Finally, this case study illustrates how electrical upgrades can enable business growth and competitive advantage. The medical office building owner could not have added the fourth suite or offered EV charging without the electrical upgrade. These improvements increased the property's income potential and market value while positioning it as a modern, forward-thinking facility. Los Angeles businesses facing growth constraints should consider whether electrical capacity limitations are holding them back from opportunities.

Conclusion

The West Los Angeles medical office building electrical upgrade demonstrates how professional electrical services can transform commercial property capabilities and enable business growth. What began as a capacity constraint preventing expansion became an opportunity to modernize the electrical system, add valuable amenities, and position the property for long-term success. The comprehensive approach Shaffer Construction took—conducting a thorough load study, upgrading to appropriate capacity with reserve headroom, ensuring full code compliance, and integrating EV charging infrastructure—delivered results that exceeded the property owner's original goals.

For Los Angeles property owners and business operators facing similar challenges, this case study offers a roadmap. Electrical capacity limitations do not have to be permanent obstacles. With proper assessment, planning, and professional execution, electrical systems can be upgraded to support current operations, enable expansion, and accommodate future needs. The key is working with experienced electrical contractors who understand the technical requirements, regulatory environment, and business implications of electrical infrastructure upgrades.

At Shaffer Construction, Inc., we have extensive experience helping Los Angeles businesses overcome electrical capacity constraints and prepare their properties for the future. Our comprehensive services include electrical load studies, panel upgrades, service increases, EV charging infrastructure installation, and ongoing electrical maintenance. We handle all aspects of the process, from initial assessment through permitting, installation, and final inspection, ensuring our clients receive complete, code-compliant solutions that support their business objectives.

If your Los Angeles business or property is experiencing electrical capacity constraints, reliability issues, or the need to accommodate new electrical loads such as EV charging, medical equipment, or facility expansion, we can help. Our team will assess your current electrical system, calculate your projected needs, and develop a comprehensive upgrade plan tailored to your requirements and budget. For expert electrical services in Los Angeles, including EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and electrical safety inspections, contact Shaffer Construction, Inc. Call us at 323-642-8509 or email hello@shaffercon.com to schedule a consultation. Visit our website at shaffercon.com to learn more about how we can help your business overcome electrical infrastructure challenges and position your property for growth.