New Construction Electrical Planning

Introduction

Building a new home or commercial structure in Los Angeles represents a significant investment, and getting the electrical system right from the start is crucial for long-term functionality, safety, and value. At Shaffer Construction, Inc., we specialize in electrical contracting for new construction projects throughout Los Angeles, and we've seen firsthand how proper electrical planning during the design phase saves property owners thousands of dollars while ensuring their buildings are ready for modern energy demands. With electric vehicles, solar panels, and smart home technology becoming standard rather than optional, the electrical considerations for new construction in 2025 are more complex than ever before.

The days of simply installing a 100-amp service panel and calling it done are long gone. Today's new construction projects in Los Angeles require careful planning for panel capacity, dedicated circuits for critical appliances, future-proofing for renewable energy systems, and compliance with evolving National Electrical Code standards. Whether you're building a single-family home in Hollywood, a multi-unit development in Downtown LA, or a commercial facility anywhere in Los Angeles County, understanding these electrical considerations will help you avoid costly retrofits and ensure your building meets both current needs and future demands.

Planning Your Electrical System: Why Panel Size Matters

One of the most critical decisions in new construction electrical planning is selecting the appropriate service panel size. According to ENERGY STAR guidelines, a 200-amp panel has become the recommended minimum for new residential construction, particularly when planning for electric vehicle charging and potential solar integration. While some older homes still operate on 100-amp or 150-amp services, these capacities simply cannot accommodate modern electrical loads without significant limitations.

At Shaffer Construction, we consistently recommend 200-amp service panels for new construction projects in Los Angeles, and here's why: a 200-amp panel provides adequate capacity for all standard household circuits plus the additional load from a Level 2 EV charger, which typically requires a dedicated 40 to 60-amp circuit. When you factor in other high-draw appliances like electric water heaters, central air conditioning, electric ranges, and potential future additions like a second EV charger or solar battery storage system, that 200-amp capacity becomes essential rather than excessive.

The 2023 National Electrical Code has introduced updated load calculation requirements that reflect modern energy consumption patterns. According to Eaton's NEC 2023 analysis, homes with panels less than 200 amps must now have capacity calculated according to NEC Article 220 to serve an additional 9.6 kilowatt load for EV charging provisions. This code change reflects the reality that EV adoption is accelerating rapidly in California, and new homes must be prepared to accommodate this technology. As we discussed in our comprehensive guide on preparing Los Angeles buildings for the EV charging boom, proper panel sizing is the foundation of EV readiness.

Beyond just the amperage rating, panel selection should also consider physical placement and accessibility. Shaffer Construction recommends surface-mounting panels rather than recessing them into walls, as this leaves the knockout ports around the perimeter accessible for future additions like solar inverters or battery backup systems. The NEC 2023 also specifies that circuit breaker boxes must be installed at a minimum height of 4 feet and a maximum of 6 feet 7 inches, with 3 feet of clearance in front and doors that can open 90 degrees without obstruction.

Circuit Design Fundamentals for Modern Living

Proper circuit design goes far beyond simply meeting minimum code requirements. In 2025, new construction electrical systems must account for dedicated circuits for numerous appliances and systems that previous generations never considered. According to current electrical code standards, any appliance or device designated as critical-use must be served by its own dedicated circuit to eliminate the risk of another device tripping the breaker and causing a shutdown.

For residential new construction in Los Angeles, Shaffer Construction typically designs electrical systems with dedicated circuits for all major appliances including refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, garbage disposals, microwave ovens, electric ranges, wall ovens, cooktops, washing machines, electric dryers, furnaces, central air conditioning units, water heaters, and garage door openers. Additionally, the kitchen alone requires a minimum of eight circuits in new construction, with at least two 120-volt, 20-amp branch circuits serving countertop outlets for small appliances.

Bathroom circuits also require special attention. Each bathroom must have dedicated circuits for exhaust fans with built-in heaters, which require individual 20-amp branch circuits. GFCI protection is mandatory for all bathroom outlets, and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter protection is now required for most residential branch circuits serving receptacles and lighting throughout the home. These safety features, mandated by the NEC 2023, significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires and shock hazards.

One area where we see many builders and homeowners underestimate their needs is in planning for home offices, entertainment systems, and smart home devices. A well-designed new construction electrical system should include multiple dedicated circuits for home office spaces, with sufficient outlets to avoid overloading circuits with computers, monitors, printers, and networking equipment. Similarly, media rooms and home theaters benefit from dedicated circuits to prevent audio-visual equipment from competing with other household loads.

When working with builders on new construction projects in Los Angeles, Shaffer Construction emphasizes the importance of generous circuit design. While it costs relatively little to add extra circuits during initial construction, retrofitting additional circuits after walls are closed up is exponentially more expensive and disruptive. We typically recommend planning for 20 to 30 percent more circuits than immediately needed to allow for future expansion without requiring panel upgrades or complex retrofitting.

Future-Proofing for EV Chargers and Solar Integration

California continues to lead the nation in electric vehicle adoption and renewable energy integration, making EV and solar readiness essential considerations for any new construction project in Los Angeles. As of 2025, building codes in many California jurisdictions require that new garages and carports include EV-ready circuits capable of supporting Level 2 chargers, and this trend will only expand in coming years.

At Shaffer Construction, our approach to EV readiness in new construction goes beyond simply meeting minimum code requirements. We recommend installing dedicated 240-volt circuits rated for at least 50 amps to each garage or designated parking area, even if the property owner doesn't currently own an electric vehicle. The cost of running this wiring during initial construction is minimal compared to the expense of retrofitting it later. For property owners who do plan to install EV chargers immediately, our residential EV charger installation services can seamlessly integrate the charging equipment with the new electrical infrastructure.

According to EnergySage research, future-proofing for solar integration requires several key considerations during the electrical design phase. First, the main service panel should have adequate space and amperage capacity to accommodate a solar inverter and potential battery storage system. Most residential solar systems require a dedicated 240-volt breaker in the main panel, typically rated between 20 and 60 amps depending on system size.

Second, panel placement matters significantly for solar integration. Surface-mounted panels with accessible knockout ports make adding solar equipment much simpler than recessed panels. Third, if you're planning for battery backup systems like the Tesla Powerwall or similar technologies, consider installing load management devices during initial construction. These smart panels allow you to designate which circuits receive backup power during grid outages, providing flexibility that dedicated subpanels cannot match.

Shaffer Construction also recommends running conduit from the attic or anticipated solar panel locations down to the electrical panel area, even if solar installation isn't immediately planned. This simple step, which adds minimal cost during construction, can save thousands of dollars when solar panels are eventually installed by providing a ready-made pathway for the necessary wiring. As we detailed in our guide on planning EV charger infrastructure installation in Los Angeles, the same principle applies to EV charging: planning ahead during construction yields massive savings and convenience later.

For commercial new construction projects, the considerations become even more complex. Multi-unit residential buildings may need to accommodate dozens of potential EV chargers, requiring careful load management strategies and potentially even dedicated EV charging subpanels. Our electrical load studies help commercial developers understand their buildings' capacity and design electrical systems that can scale to meet future tenant demands without requiring expensive infrastructure upgrades.

Navigating Los Angeles Permit Requirements

Electrical work in Los Angeles requires permits from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety, and understanding this process is essential for keeping new construction projects on schedule. According to the LADBS electrical permit guidelines, all electrical work in new construction requires proper permitting, plan review for services of 400 amps or greater, and inspections before the work can be approved and buildings occupied.

At Shaffer Construction, we handle all permit applications, plan reviews, and inspection coordination for our electrical contracting projects in Los Angeles. The permit process typically begins with submitting electrical plans to LADBS through their ePlanLA online system or through in-person appointments. As of 2025, in-person visits to LADBS require advance appointments, which can be scheduled through their website or by calling 3-1-1. First-time users of the ePlanLA system must register for an Angeleno account, which provides access to various City of Los Angeles services.

For residential electrical work in new construction, detailed drawn plans are not typically required unless the service involves 400 amps or more. However, commercial projects and larger residential developments usually require comprehensive electrical plans prepared by licensed engineers and reviewed by LADBS plan checkers before permits can be issued. This review process ensures that the proposed electrical system meets all applicable codes, has adequate capacity for the intended use, and incorporates proper safety features.

One critical aspect that many contractors and property owners overlook is the inspection process. Los Angeles requires inspections at various stages of electrical work, and these must be requested at least three business days before the work is completed or immediately upon completion. Failed inspections can delay entire construction projects, so working with experienced electrical contractors like Shaffer Construction who understand inspector expectations and code requirements helps ensure that work passes inspection the first time.

Separate permits are often required for different aspects of new construction projects, so the electrical permit represents just one piece of the overall permitting puzzle. Buildings typically need separate permits for structural work, plumbing, mechanical systems, and electrical work, all of which must be coordinated to avoid delays. Our experience managing electrical contracting for new construction throughout Los Angeles means we understand how to coordinate with other trades and keep projects moving efficiently through the permitting and inspection process.

Working with Builders and Contractors

Successful new construction electrical work requires close collaboration between electrical contractors, general contractors, architects, and property owners. At Shaffer Construction, we've found that the most successful projects are those where the electrical contractor is involved early in the design phase, rather than being brought in only after architectural plans are finalized.

Early involvement allows electrical contractors to identify potential issues before they become expensive problems. For example, we can evaluate whether the proposed panel location has adequate access and clearance, whether the service entrance location is practical and cost-effective, and whether the electrical design accommodates future expansion needs. We can also provide realistic cost estimates based on actual site conditions rather than theoretical drawings, helping property owners budget accurately from the start.

Communication is essential throughout the construction process. Electrical rough-in work must be carefully coordinated with framing, plumbing, and HVAC installation to avoid conflicts and ensure that all systems have the space and pathways they need. At Shaffer Construction, we maintain regular communication with general contractors and other trades, participate in coordination meetings, and proactively identify and resolve potential conflicts before they impact construction schedules.

For property owners building new homes or commercial facilities in Los Angeles, we recommend asking potential electrical contractors about their experience with similar projects, their approach to code compliance and permitting, their relationships with local building inspectors, and their willingness to collaborate with other trades. The lowest bid is not always the best value when it comes to electrical contracting for new construction, as poor quality work or delays can cost far more than the initial savings.

We also encourage property owners to think beyond immediate needs when planning new construction electrical systems. As discussed in our article on preparing your property for EV chargers, technologies like electric vehicles, solar panels, and battery storage systems are becoming standard features rather than luxury additions. Planning for these technologies during initial construction is far more cost-effective than retrofitting them later, and an experienced electrical contractor can help you understand what provisions make sense for your specific situation and budget.

Conclusion

Electrical planning for new construction in Los Angeles has never been more complex or more important. The decisions you make during the design and construction phase will impact your building's functionality, safety, energy efficiency, and adaptability for decades to come. From selecting adequate panel capacity and designing proper circuit layouts to future-proofing for EV chargers and solar integration, every aspect of the electrical system requires careful consideration and expert execution.

At Shaffer Construction, Inc., we bring decades of experience in electrical contracting for new construction projects throughout Los Angeles. We understand the unique challenges of building in Los Angeles, from navigating LADBS permitting requirements to designing electrical systems that can handle California's push toward electrification and renewable energy. Whether you're building a new home, a multi-unit residential development, or a commercial facility, our team can help you plan and execute an electrical system that meets your current needs while remaining flexible enough to accommodate future technologies and requirements.

Don't leave your new construction electrical system to chance or settle for contractors who simply meet minimum code requirements. Partner with electrical professionals who understand the importance of proper planning, quality workmanship, and future-focused design. For expert electrical services in Los Angeles, including new construction electrical planning, 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 our comprehensive electrical contracting services and how we can help make your new construction project a success from the ground up.