High-Rise Living, High-Tech Power

Living in Brickell, Downtown, or Edgewater offers incredible views, but renovating these units comes with a unique set of electrical challenges. Unlike a single-family home where you have access to the attic, condo electrical work requires navigating concrete ceilings, steel studs, and strict HOA rules.

Whether you are remodeling a vintage unit or upgrading a developer-standard apartment, your electrical plan needs to be precise.

⚡ Quick Answers: Condo Electrical FAQ

Can I move the electrical panel in my condo?

Usually, no. In most high-rise buildings, the main electrical feed comes from a central “busway” or riser. You generally must keep the panel location fixed, though you can upgrade the internals to handle more power or safer breakers.

Do I need a permit to change light fixtures?

It depends. For simple swaps (taking down a chandelier, putting up a fan), often no. But for adding new recessed lighting, moving switches, or adding outlets, a City of Miami permit is mandatory.

What is “Chicago Plenum” or MC Cable?

Many high-rises use the space above the ceiling for air return (“plenum”). This means we cannot use standard plastic-sheathed wire (Romex) because toxic fumes would spread in a fire. We must use metal-clad (MC) cable or conduit.

Top 3 Electrical Upgrades for Miami Condos

1. Smart Lighting & Automated Shades

In a condo with floor-to-ceiling glass, managing light and heat is crucial.

• Lutron Caséta / RA3: Replace standard switches with smart dimmers. Control entire scenes (“Movie Night”, “Sunset”) from your phone.
• Motorized Shades: Hard-wiring power for shades is far superior to battery packs. We run low-voltage wiring discreetly along window headers.

2. Panel Upgrades for Modern Loads

Developer panels are often “contractor grade.”

• Surge Protection: Essential in high-rises to protect your expensive electronics from building-wide issues.
• AFCI Breakers: Code compliance for bedroom and living area circuits.

3. LED Recessed Lighting (The “No-Can” Can)

Concrete ceilings make traditional “can” lights impossible without dropping the ceiling height.

• The Solution: Ultra-thin LED wafers. These require less than 1 inch of clearance and can sometimes be installed in very shallow furr-downs.

Working with Your HOA

We know the drill. Solomon Electric is fully insured with the $2M Liability / $1M Workers Comp typically required by Miami luxury buildings.

We handle:

• COI (Certificate of Insurance) submission to property management.
• Scheduling around noise ordinances and elevator strictures.
• Protection of common areas (hallway runners, elevator pads).

Planning a renovation?
Don’t get stopped by the HOA. Hire the condo specialists.
Request a COI & Quote

Upgrade your view with upgraded power.

Serving Brickell City Centre, Edgewater, Downtown, and Sunny Isles.