Missing or unreadable main service panel label

The Virtual Inspection checklist asks for a photo of the main service panel (MSP) nameplate label. On older homes, this label is often faded, painted over, or missing entirely. This article explains what to submit in two scenarios.

If you didn't do any work to the main service panel

A missing label is usually not a problem. The rating of the main breaker itself typically signifies the panel's rating, and most jurisdictions accept it as evidence of the panel's capacity.

1. If a faded label is present, take a clear, close-up photo of it. If the label is missing entirely, take a photo of the empty MSP deadfront where it would be.
2. In the notes, state that the factory label is missing or illegible and that the main breaker rating is provided in later sections.

If you did work to the main service panel

If you derated the main breaker or upgraded the main panel, you may have difficulty passing inspection without a legible label. To proceed, we recommend:

1. Find a label for the same panel type (same manufacturer and model series).
2. Upload it to the panel label checklist item.
3. Add a note clearly stating that the label is only representative and does not show what is physically on site, and explain why the original label is missing. Misrepresenting evidence can fail the inspection and damage your standing with the jurisdiction.

It's up to the inspector to decide whether to accept this alternative.