How to ask your board for an EV charger
Boards rarely say no because they dislike EVs. They hesitate because a charger request lands with a list of unknowns: liability, insurance, the common electric bill, building capacity, and what to tell the next owner who asks. Answer those up front and approval gets much faster.
What the board is actually thinking about
- Liability. Who is responsible if the equipment fails or damages the garage?
- Insurance. Will the association's premium go up? Is the owner insured?
- The electric bill. Is this owner going to charge on the common meter?
- Capacity. If ten owners ask next year, will the building's electrical service handle it?
- Precedent. Whatever they approve for you, they will have to approve for others on the same terms.
- Appearance and access. Where the conduit runs, and whether work blocks other residents.
What to include in your application
- Your unit and parking space number, and whether the space is assigned or deeded
- The charger make and model, and that it is safety listed (UL or another nationally recognized testing lab)
- Your electrician's name, license number and insurance certificate
- Where the power comes from (your unit's panel and meter, or a common panel with a submeter)
- The conduit route, with a simple sketch or photo
- Confirmation that a permit will be pulled
- Your liability insurance, and willingness to name the association as additional insured
- Your agreement to pay installation, electricity, maintenance and removal costs
- The state statute that applies, if any (find yours)
Sample request letter
This is a starting point, not legal advice. Your declaration and state law may set specific requirements. Some states set a deadline for the board to respond.
Next step
Find the guide for where you live. Choose your living situation and read the charging guide written for it. Ready for an electrician? Request an installation quote.
Choose your charging guideGet an installation quoteCommon questions
How long does a condo board have to approve an EV charger?
It depends on the state. California and Washington treat a complete application as approved if the association does not deny it in writing within 60 days, and Oregon requires a response within 60 days. Many states set no deadline.
What can a board require before approving an EV charger?
Commonly: a licensed electrician, a permit, a safety-listed charger, proof of insurance naming the association, reasonable architectural standards, and the owner paying all costs.