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Permitting information and guides for homeowners and HOAs.
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Condo & HOA EV Charger Guide
Getting a Level 2 charger installed in a condo or HOA-managed property can seem daunting — but California’s “Right-to-Charge” laws are on your side.
This guide walks you through the process to help you get board approval quickly and confidently.
1. Understand What Your HOA Cares About
To get a fast “yes,” address the board’s primary concerns upfront:
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Safety & Compliance
Your installation must be performed by a licensed C-10 electrician and be fully permitted and inspected by your local authority. -
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Cost & Fairness
All costs — installation, electricity, and future maintenance — are paid by you, the owner. -
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Building Impact
The HOA wants to ensure your charger doesn’t overload the building’s electrical capacity or negatively affect its appearance. -
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Liability
Your contractor must carry full insurance and list the HOA as an “Additional Insured” on their policy.
2. Your “Board-Ready” Packet Checklist
Submitting a complete, professional package makes approval smoother and shows respect for your HOA’s process.
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Your Request Letter
Include a signed copy of your EV charger installation request letter (see template below). -
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Contractor’s Proposal
This is the most important part of your submission. It should include:- Contractor’s business name, address, and C-10 license number.
- A clear scope of work detailing: EVSE make/model, breaker size, conductor specs, and conduit type.
- A one-line electrical diagram showing the path from the panel to the charger.
- Site map or annotated photos showing the conduit route and charger location.
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Proof of Electrical Capacity
Provide one of the following:- Option A – Load Calculation: A formal calculation proving your panel can handle the added load.
- Option B – ALMS (Automatic Load Management System): Include the manufacturer’s specification sheet and a signed statement from your contractor confirming the ALMS will keep demand within safe limits.
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Certificate of Insurance (COI)
Your contractor must provide a valid COI naming your HOA’s legal entity as an "Additional Insured." This protects the HOA in case of accidents during installation.
Template Letter (Click to Expand)
Subject: Request for Approval – Level 2 EV Charger Installation for Unit [#]
Dear [Board/Property Manager Name],
I request approval to install a Level 2 EV charging circuit to serve Parking Space [#] for Unit [#]. The work will be performed by a licensed and insured C-10 electrical contractor and will be permitted and inspected by the city/county.
Scope Summary: A detailed proposal from the contractor is attached, including their license number, a diagram of the wiring path, and equipment specifications.
Electrical Capacity: The attached proposal includes [choose one: (a) a dwelling load calculation showing sufficient capacity OR (b) details on an Automatic Load Management System (ALMS) that will be installed to prevent overloading our building's service].
Costs & Liability: I will bear all costs associated with the installation, permitting, electricity usage, and ongoing maintenance. A Certificate of Insurance (COI) from the contractor is attached, naming [HOA legal name] as an Additional Insured party.
I will also be responsible for the removal of the equipment and restoration of any common areas at my expense if requested upon moving.
Please let me know if you require any additional forms or information. I am happy to attend the next board meeting to answer any questions.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Unit [#]
[Phone]
[Email]