Electric vehicle ownership isn’t limited to homeowners. As more renters choose EVs, rental property owners may also be considering whether to provide charging options for tenants.
Adding EV charging to a rental property can require more planning than installing a charger at a single-family home. Property owners need to consider the electrical system, parking arrangements, tenant access, and how electricity usage will be handled.
Here’s what Orlando property owners should know.
Why Add an EV Charger to a Rental Property?
EV charging can be an attractive amenity for current and prospective tenants.
A tenant with an electric vehicle may value having a convenient place to charge at home rather than relying entirely on public charging stations.
For landlords, providing charging infrastructure can also help a property adapt to changing transportation habits.
Start With the Property’s Electrical System
Before installing a charger, the property’s electrical capacity should be evaluated.
A Level 2 charger can add a significant electrical load, particularly if it will be used frequently or if multiple chargers are planned.
An electrician can assess the existing panel, electrical service, and other major loads to determine whether the property can accommodate the proposed equipment.
Where Will the Charger Be Located?
Parking arrangements are particularly important for rental properties.
A single-family rental with a private garage may have a relatively straightforward installation.
Multi-unit properties can be more complicated because parking areas may be shared or located away from individual electrical panels.
The charger needs to be located where the tenant can reasonably access it while ensuring that the electrical connection is properly configured.
Who Pays for the Electricity?
Property owners should decide how charging electricity will be handled before installing the equipment.
For a private single-family rental, the charger may be connected to the property’s existing electrical service.
For multi-unit properties, however, charging may need to be separately metered or otherwise accounted for so that one tenant isn’t paying for another tenant’s electricity usage.
An electrician can help identify the electrical configuration, while the property owner or manager can establish the appropriate billing arrangement.
What If Multiple Tenants Want EV Charger Installation?
A property with several units may eventually need more than one charger.
Installing multiple chargers can substantially increase the property’s electrical demand.
Rather than adding chargers one at a time without considering the overall system, property owners should think about potential future demand.
Planning ahead can help determine whether additional electrical capacity or charging management equipment may be appropriate.
Can an Outdoor Charger Be Installed?
Yes, when the equipment and installation are appropriate for outdoor use.
Outdoor charging can be useful for rental properties where tenants park in driveways or shared lots.
Florida’s weather makes proper equipment selection particularly important. Outdoor charging equipment should be rated for its environment and installed according to manufacturer specifications and applicable electrical requirements.
What About Apartment Buildings?
Apartment properties may have additional considerations because parking and electrical infrastructure are often shared.
The charging equipment may need to be connected to common electrical infrastructure, a tenant’s individual service, or another dedicated arrangement.
Property owners should evaluate both the physical parking configuration and the electrical system before choosing an installation approach.
Should the Property Owner Buy the Charger?
That depends on how the charging amenity will be managed.
Some property owners may prefer to purchase and maintain the equipment themselves. Others may allow tenants to install approved equipment at their own expense.
Whatever approach you choose, establish clear rules regarding installation, maintenance, access, and removal when a tenant moves out.
Professional EV Charger Installation for Orlando Properties
EV charging can be a useful addition to a rental property, but the installation should be planned around the property’s electrical infrastructure and parking arrangement.
Thomas Edison Electric provides professional EV charger installation for residential properties throughout Orlando and Central Florida.
Our electricians can evaluate the property’s electrical system, determine what the installation requires, and help property owners plan a safe charging solution.
If you’re considering adding EV charging to an Orlando rental property, contact Thomas Edison Electric to discuss your project.