Ontario condo-owners looking to install electric vehicle charging stations in their buildings will have fewer roadblocks as of May 1st, 2018.
New provincial condominium ownership rules set to come into effect next month will make it easier for electric vehicle owners hoping to install charging stations in their buildings — as well as ensure that condo corporations respond to charging station installation requests in a more timely manner.
The new rules state that condo corporation boards can’t reject charging station installation applications unless the charging stations don’t meet certain legal requirements; pose a risk of damage to the structural integrity of the property; or pose a health and safety risk.
Additionally, condo corporations must respond to applications within 60 days.
“One of the largest contributing factors that inhibits drivers from purchasing an electric vehicle is the fear of having nowhere to charge it,” said Tracy MacCharles, Ontario’s minister of government and consumer services, in an April 23rd, 2018 media release.
“Condo owners have indicated they have faced challenges when trying to install charging systems on condo premises. Through these new laws, we will increase opportunities to install charging systems at condo properties in order to support residents who own or wish to purchase an electric vehicle.”
However, condo boards can reject applications if the estimated costs are greater than 10 percent of the annual budget; of if the installation would reduce the use or enjoyment of units, as well as the assets of the condo corporation.
Of course, charging stations don’t have to be installed if a majority of condo owners reject the application.
“Electric Vehicle charging infrastructure helps our customers in condos who want to adopt a cleaner mode of transportation but are limited by current building configurations,” said Anthony Haines, president and CEO of Toronto Hydro, in the same April media release.
“Toronto Hydro is pleased to support this initiative, which we believe levels the playing field for electric vehicle adoption and promotes fairness, while aligning with our climate change goals and promoting a cleaner environment.”
According to the Government of Ontario, approximately 680,000 residents live in a condominium, while more than 50 percent of new homes built in Ontario are condos.
The Government also estimates that there are approximately 18,500 electric vehicles currently driving Ontario roads.
Source: Government of Ontario
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