There are 26 electric vehicle models currently on the market, and more scheduled for release in the upcoming years. Homeowner associations (HOA), managers, and owners of multi-dwelling complexes may have already received requests for the installation of public or home electric vehicle charging stations. Electric vehicles are part of the future and it’s something HOAs and property owners need to start thinking about.

Benefits of EV Charging for Homeowner Associations

As a property owner or HOA member, you can take advantage of several benefits by installing electric vehicle charging stations.

• The complex or neighborhood can use the environmentally-friendly system for positive marketing campaigns designed to entice new residents to move in.
• Adding charging stations lists the property/neighborhood as a leader in sustainability.
• Installing the charging station now puts you ahead of demand as the electric vehicle market grows.
• Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEEDS) points are awarded to properties with vehicle charging stations.

Electric Car Charging Guide for Homeowner Associations and Multi-Dwelling Complex Owners

Getting started installing an electric vehicle charging infrastructure in your neighborhood or complex is easier than you think. By following a few guidelines, HOAs and property owners will know what they need, along with the cost and any incentives to complete the project.

• What’s the demand? You won’t know how many charging stations are needed unless you know the demand. A good way is to conduct a survey. Find out how many residents have electric cars, and who is planning on purchasing one in the future.
• Find parking for charging. The charging stations need parking spots. It can be in a lot or on the street.
• What’s the electric capacity? Can the building’s current electrical system support charging stations? What about homes or units? Are you going to need to add electric meters to track usage from the charging stations?
• Decide on a charging system. There are several brands to choose from, and each offers something different. Before choosing a charging system, make sure the amps and features meet residents’ needs.
• Recover costs. Using chargers assigned to drivers or stations with payment systems built-in will help HOAs and others recover the installation costs. It also ensures that you are not paying for energy usage.
• Installing charging stations has benefits. Tax breaks and major incentives are available in most cities and states to properties that have vehicle charging stations.

Implementing Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

You decided on the electric vehicle charging solution and are ready to install it. You’ve followed any laws and codes required by local, state, and city governments. When you’re ready to get started there are a few steps to follow that will make the project flow smoothly.

1. 1. Tenants request an EV charging station. – Consider future requests as well.
   2. Make sure your EV charging station installer has certified electricians performing the installation.
   3. Create an installation plan that works with the property’s layout.
   4. Measure the electric capacity in individual multi-dwelling units. – Your installer should be capable of this. If they are not, consider finding one that provides this service.
   5. Research any existing deeds or policies that may interfere with the charging station’s placement.
   6. Compare all options, including multi-vehicle charging stations and single charging systems.
   7. Adopt any provisions that are needed to install charging stations into the property’s bylaws.
   8. Get approval from homeowners or tenants for the plan to recover installation costs and energy usage.
   9. Establish and approve the installation plan.
   10. Apply and receive the installation permit.
   11. Start thinking about the future as more people switch to electric vehicles.

Keeping Your Tenants Electric Vehicles Charged

Neighborhoods are not designed the same, along with multi-dwelling complexes. What works in one area may not be suited for yours. There are many options for homeowners’ associations, and finding a company that will work with your needs is paramount to installing EV charging stations for your tenants. The experts with Apogee Charging Solutions are standing by to assist you and your homeowner association. You can call 484-816-2076 or email [email protected], for more information on EV charging solutions!