Electric vehicles are becoming a common sight in Florida condominium parking lots. As more owners make the switch, many associations are fielding requests to install charging stations. The good news: Florida law provides clear direction for both unit owners and boards.
Can Florida condominium owners install EV charging stations and what are the rules?
Yes. Section 718.113(8), Florida Statutes allows condominium owners to install EV charging stations under certain conditions. Associations may regulate these installations, provided the established regulations are reasonable and applied uniformly.
What can owners install and where?
Owners may place a charging station within their limited common element or exclusive-use parking space. The charging station must be separately or embedded-metered, and the owner is typically responsible for all installation, operation, maintenance, repair, and removal costs. This ensures that charging expenses do not shift to the association or other owners.
What can the association require?
Boards can and should establish clear standards. They may require:
- Compliance with safety codes and industry standards;
- Reasonable architectural or aesthetic rules for location and appearance;
- Use of a licensed, insured electrical contractor;
- A certificate of insurance naming the association as additional insured;
- Reimbursement for any increased insurance premium within 14 days.
An implied easement allows routing of electrical lines across common elements when necessary.
Can the association install shared chargers?
Yes. Section 718.113(9), Florida Statutes authorizes Boards to install and operate charging stations on common elements and to set user fees. By law, such installations are not treated as material alterations requiring owner approval.
Practical steps for Boards and Owners
Use a standard application process covering installation plans, electrical-load calculations, contractor licensing, insurance certificates, and a maintenance/removal agreement. A standardized application process keeps approvals efficient and defensible as demand for EV charging grows.
Need an EV-charging policy or owner-application template for your condominium under §718.113, Florida Statutes? Contact the Florida condo and HOA attorneys at Ansbacher Law.
General information only; not legal advice.