Installing electric vehicle charging equipment in multi-family housing, such as condos, townhomes and apartment communities, is both exciting and challenging.

Suggested steps for multi-unit residential communities as they prepare to offer EV charging include:

1. Conduct A Survey

A survey, or poll, is a great way to determine how many people in your multi-family community are considering buying or already own plug-in.

2. Contact us to explore your options

We will help you learn what your options are, including what types of plug-in vehicles are on the market, what charging technologies are available, the costs involved, and business models for providing EV charging. Charging stations for electric vehicles, also referred to as electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), range from stand-alone units that are open to all residents and guests if guests have access to the parking area served by EV chargers, to networked chargers with user ID and payment options.

Networked EV chargers can offer:

• Metering capabilities
• Access control
• Billing & fee options
• Remote control & monitoring capabilities

EV chargers may be installed indoors or outdoors, and mounted to a wall, pole, ceiling or floor, and enclosed in a lockbox, depending on site-specific needs. We offer a wide array of charging options for commercial and residential charging.

3. List Needs And Challenges

Every multi-family development has community-specific needs and potential challenges, which can include:

• Where will the charging stations be installed?
• Existing rules in the covenants, conditions and restrictions (“CC&Rs”) that may affect the location of EV charging stations
• Which parking spaces can accommodate EV charging units and whether those are assigned or unassigned
• State and local regulations
• Available power

4. Determine the Scope

We will assist you in determining the scope of your vehicle charging project, including:

• Estimated number of charging stations and parking spaces
• Charging station equipment preferences
• Will the EV chargers be networked or not?
• Ideal location where charging stations will be installed
• Will they be indoors or outdoors?

5. On-site Evaluation Coordination

We will visit the site to go over the scope of the project and answer any project requirement questions. As part of the evaluation, we will calculate power loads, determine whether existing electric panels need to be upgraded or replaced, and whether your utility company needs to upgrade electric service or install new electric meters. We will coordinate with your utility company for project design review and any needed on-site visits.

6. Installation

Once the quote is approved, we will handle all the details of installing your new EV charging stations, including:

• Ordering your charging stations
• Obtaining any necessary permits
• Working with your utility service provider
• Scheduling installation
• Coordinating the entire project
• Arranging for any required inspections by your utility company and your city
• Assisting with signage (You will want your residents to know you’re providing EV charging for them.)