We toured a triplex in Los Angeles this week, and one detail immediately stood out—the electrical panels.
Two of the units are still running on 2-fuse panels.
Yes, really.
It got us thinking… just how old are these? The building itself dates back to 1941, so there’s a real possibility these panels could be original—or at least not far removed from that era. Either way, it’s a clear sign that upgrades are overdue.
It’s hard to imagine running a modern household on a 2-fuse panel. Beyond basic lighting and maybe a refrigerator, you’d be pushing the limits pretty quickly. In today’s world of appliances, electronics, and HVAC demands, that setup just doesn’t cut it.
The Hidden Costs of a “Fixer” Triplex
This is a great example of something investors should keep in mind when evaluating multi-unit properties—everything multiplies.
With a single-family home, you’re typically dealing with:
- One kitchen to remodel
- One electrical panel to upgrade
- One set of major systems
With a triplex, that becomes:
- Three kitchens
- Three electrical panels (especially if separately metered, like this one)
- Three sets of systems to evaluate and potentially replace
Those costs add up quickly—and they can significantly impact your overall investment numbers.
That doesn’t mean deals like this aren’t worth pursuing. It just means you need to go in with eyes wide open, budget accordingly, and plan for upgrades that bring the property up to modern standards.
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