Strata Council Guide: Handling Resident Requests for EV Charger Installations

More residents in Vancouver, BC, are asking their strata councils for electric vehicle charger installations. As EV ownership grows across the province, many condo owners want to be able to charge at home, not just at public stations. That means more councils are reviewing requests, sometimes with little experience handling them.

Knowing how to respond clearly and fairly is important. Not every building is ready for a charger yet, and some requests can create tension when electrical capacity is tight. But a good process makes everything easier. When we understand the steps, handle requests equally, and plan for shared use, residential EV charging installation in Vancouver goes a lot smoother.

Understanding Strata Responsibilities and Rights

Strata councils in British Columbia have the power to review and approve owner requests, including those related to common property. But the rules changed in 2023 with updates to the Strata Property Act, which added more support for EV charging access.

We now look at EV charger requests differently than we used to. If a resident wants to install a charger at their parking stall or another part of the property, councils must deal with the request using a reasonable approach. That usually means showing valid reasons for delay or rejection and keeping residents informed on council decisions.

There’s also the matter of managing electricity use in shared spaces. Some buildings don't have much spare capacity. Others may already run heavy systems like elevators, heating, and lighting off the same panels. That’s why it’s important to review the impact of any proposed installation on the rest of the building's operations. This is where electrical planning becomes just as key as fairness.

Electric Asset Inc. assists strata councils by preparing electrical planning reports and load calculations, helping assess capacity limits and safely integrate new chargers into existing systems.

What to Do When a Resident Submits a Request

When a resident wants to install a charger, the first step is usually a written request to the council. These letters often include a layout or plan, preferred equipment, cost responsibility, and where on common property the charger connects.

We recommend reviewing these requests as a group and following a process that’s the same for every resident. That helps reduce conflict and gives everyone more confidence in the outcome.

Here’s what we often look for:

• Who will install the charger and whether it’s a certified electrician

• If wiring passes through shared walls or ceilings

• How costs will be covered by the resident (not the strata)

• How long the installation will take and how it will be maintained

These may seem small, but they make a difference. Especially in older buildings or busy downtown lots, even small changes can have big effects over time. Acting early also helps avoid long waitlists, contractor shortages, and grid limitations that get worse as more owners ask for chargers too.

Planning for Shared Use and Long-Term Demand

It’s a good idea for councils to think beyond one charger. A single request is often the start of many more. Once one stall gets powered up, others usually follow.

Planning ahead may include an EV-ready plan for the whole parkade. This outlines how many stalls could support chargers, how much energy is available, and what upgrades might be needed. It’s not just about physical wiring, it’s also about keeping the system safe and balanced.

Some councils use an energy management system to make this easier. These devices allow chargers to share power fairly between cars plugged in at the same time. They reduce overloading and can often help avoid costly panel upgrades. It’s also smart to talk about:

• How charger usage will be tracked (like smart meters or apps)

• Who pays for electricity and any ongoing service work

• Whether chargers are private or shared between units

Getting these details right early helps avoid future arguments between neighbours, and it keeps everyone on the same page long-term.

Our team at Electric Asset Inc. recommends phased upgrade plans and can implement energy management systems that distribute power and manage usage, allowing more units to charge with minimal infrastructure changes.

Avoiding Delays in Residential EV Charging Installation in Vancouver

Installing EV chargers in condo buildings across Vancouver sounds simple, but it’s not always quick. Some projects pause when buildings lack the right electrical setup. Others stall when strata councils delay decisions or residents don’t provide enough detail up front.

A big part of avoiding these delays is starting with a solid electrical review. This can show how much room is left on the building’s system, whether upgrades are needed, and what solutions make the most sense. An electrical planning report also helps councils make clear decisions with facts in hand instead of guessing.

We’ve seen how planning early can lead to smoother installs, even in winter. Vancouver buildings with confined spaces or older infrastructure often benefit from having certified contractors ready months in advance.

These small choices, planning reviews, proper approvals, and timelines, add up fast. They keep everyone moving instead of stuck waiting for the next meeting or permit.

Powering Smarter Decisions as a Strata Council

Making good decisions around EV charging requests keeps more strata councils on solid ground. When the process is clear, consistent, and backed by real planning, we see less confusion and better trust between councils and residents.

Every multi-unit building has its own setup. Parking layouts, electrical panels, and resident needs all vary, but the end goal is shared. Drivers should have a simple, fair chance to charge at home without upsetting the balance of the whole building.

By reviewing requests properly and planning with growth in mind, we give our buildings the chance to adapt while staying safe and efficient. The future of apartment living in Vancouver, BC, is electric, and it’s starting one charger at a time. Electric Asset Inc. helps strata councils across the region make smarter calls when it comes to EV charging. Whether it’s planning, installing, or reviewing requests, we’re here to make it easier.

Ready to make EV charging accessible in your Vancouver, BC, strata building? We work with properties of all ages and sizes to simplify charger installations and ensure a fair process for everyone. Our team at Electric Asset Inc. supports strata councils through every stage, from building assessments to shared-use planning. Discover how we approach residential EV charging installation in Vancouver and contact us to discuss the best next steps for your building