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Charging Ahead: A Renter’s Guide to Owning an Electric Car

Electric vehicle charging at home charging station with EV charger device plugged in with blurred background. Due to its many advantages, including being environmentally friendly and cost-effective, electric cars are quickly gaining popularity. Owning an electric car, however, may be challenging if you rent a home. There are a number of considerations to make in such a scenario that can assist you in overcoming these obstacles and still reap the benefits of owning an electric vehicle as a renter.

 

Charging Infrastructure

If you are planning to buy an electric car, it is essential to consider the charging infrastructure available at your rental property. You should evaluate the electrical system in your property and confirm that it can handle the additional electrical load. 

 

Check to see if you have access to a garage or dedicated parking space with an electrical outlet that can accommodate the charging connection and offers the necessary power levels. You might also see whether a public charging station is available in your area and is within a reasonable distance from you.

 

Landlord Permission

Let’s say you’re thinking of installing a charging station or making any other electrical changes to your rented property. If that’s the case, you should review your lease agreement thoroughly and get advice from your landlord or property management firm. This will assist you adhere to the rules and regulations set forth in the lease agreement and prevent any arguments or conflicts from arising.

 

Be sure to communicate your plans clearly and seek permission before making any modifications to the property. This will help you maintain a positive relationship with your landlord and ensure you follow the proper procedures to make any necessary changes to your rented property.

 

Portable Chargers

Establishing a stationary charging station for your electric vehicle may be difficult, so you may want to look into purchasing a portable charger that can be plugged into a regular electrical outlet instead. It’s important to remember that portable chargers are slower than dedicated charging stations and might not offer enough range for your everyday driving needs. As such, it’s crucial to make sure that your rental property has accessible outlets that may be utilized for charging purposes.

 

It is important to think about the amperage rating of the outlet you intend to use before buying a portable charger. If your rental property lacks an accessible outlet with this rating, you might need to contact an electrician to get one installed with your landlord’s permission. Most portable chargers require a 120-volt, 20-amp outlet. 

 

You should also verify the charger’s specifications to see if it needs a dedicated circuit, as some portable chargers have this requirement.

 

Other Considerations

  • Public Charging: Public charging infrastructure is a viable option, but it’s not necessarily the most practical or economical choice. It’s a good idea to think about the locations and availability of charging stations in your neighborhood. If you routinely travel long distances, this will help you anticipate your charging needs. Some charging stations may have various rates, which could increase or decrease your final bill. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly consider all of your possibilities before settling on one.
  • Electric Utility Rates: It’s important to find out whether your utility company has any charging rebate or discount schemes if you own an electric vehicle. The energy costs you incur each month may be drastically reduced by taking advantage of these programs, which may provide discounted rates or other benefits. Find out if there are any deals available from your service provider by doing some digging.
  • Charging Apps: With the help of specialist EV charging apps, electric vehicle owners can easily locate charging stations in their area, check their availability, and monitor the charging process. With these apps, charging your electric vehicle is quick and easy.

 

Owning an electric car as a renter may necessitate additional preparation and cooperation, but it is still a practical and environmentally beneficial alternative. More and more tenants are opting to switch to electric transportation as a result of the growing availability of charging stations and the general trend towards sustainability. It’s crucial to conduct your research and speak properly with your landlord to ensure a smooth transfer. By acting in this way, you may have a positive effect on the world while also reaping the rewards of owning an electric car.

 

At Real Property Management Success, we’re dedicated to boosting your rental living experience in Fall River and the surrounding area. Tenant happiness is our top priority, and we’ll go out of our way to meet your specific requirements. Check out our available listings or call us at 774-840-5140
right away!

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