Step 3 - Approve Request

Some aspects of allowing EV charging may be in the hands of strata council, but others may require a homeowner vote at an AGM and SGM. Either way, the strata council support is the first essential step.

A strata council vote

If approving a change to accommodate EV charging, the strata council may need to vote on:

• Changes to parking rules for the affected stalls, including details such as time limits, user access, and any stall switching provisions;
• Financial expenditures in support of putting in charging (within the limits allowable without requiring a homeowner vote – this limit is usually specified in the Strata bylaws);
• Bringing any draft bylaws (including user fees bylaws) that may be required in support of EV charging to the next AGM or SGM.

Homeowner vote at AGM/SGM

Your strata’s bylaws and rules will determine what aspects of the charging installation needs to be approved by homeowners and what level of consensus is required at the AGM or SGM.

 More information about holding a SGM or AGM

Establishing user agreements

If approving a homeowner’s request, the strata council may also want to set up an agreement with the homeowner specifying the terms and conditions of use of the equipment. Be as specific as possible to avoid complications in the future. You should involve a lawyer who specializes in strata law to help you draft and formalize your agreement.

Some potential areas to consider when drafting the agreement include:

Ownership of the charger (especially after a homeowner sells their property)

Ownership will determine what happens to a charger when a homeowner moves. Charger ownership may also be influenced by the legal designation of the parking stall so it is best to carefully review your strata’s documents and rules.