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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, can be challenging if you rent a home. In such a situation, it’s important to consider certain factors that can assist you in overcoming these obstacles and still reap the benefits of owning an electric vehicle as a renter.

 

Charging Infrastructure

It is crucial to think about the charging infrastructure at your rental property if you plan to buy an electric car. 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

Consider installing a charging station or making any other electrical modifications in your rented property. In such a circumstance, 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. Maintaining a cordial relationship with your landlord is essential, as is following all of the required procedures before making any alterations to the rented property.

 

Portable Chargers

Installing 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. The range of a portable charger may not be enough for your everyday driving demands because they are slower than dedicated charging stations. As such, you should ensure that there are convenient electrical outlets for charging devices around the rental property.

 

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 doesn’t have a 120-volt, 20-amp outlet, you may need to contact an electrician to get one installed with your landlord’s permission. Most portable chargers require this rating. 

 

It’s also worth mentioning that certain portable chargers require a dedicated circuit, so check the manufacturer’s specifications before purchasing.

 

Other Considerations

  • Public Charging: While using public charging infrastructure can be a viable option, it’s not necessarily the most practical or economical one. The availability of charging stations in your area, as well as their locations, should be taken into consideration. Having this knowledge will be especially useful if you routinely travel long distances and need to charge your device along the way. The total cost may also be affected by the fact that different charging stations have varying price structures. Therefore, it’s crucial to weigh all of your options thoroughly before settling on a course of action.
  • Electric Utility Rates: If you own an electric vehicle, it’s worth investigating whether your utility company offers programs to help you save money on charging. These programs could include special rates or incentives that can make a significant difference to your overall energy costs. Take the time to research your provider’s offers and see if you can take advantage of any potential savings.
  • Charging Apps: Specialized EV charging apps make it simple for electric vehicle owners to locate charging stations in their area, check their availability, and monitor the charging process. These apps make recharging an electric vehicle simple and straightforward.

 

Owning an electric car as a renter may take more organization and forethought, but it is still a practical and environmentally friendly choice. 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. To guarantee a smooth transfer, it is crucial to conduct your homework and communicate effectively with your landlord. By taking these measures, you may enjoy the numerous benefits of owning an electric car while simultaneously making a beneficial influence on the environment.

 

If you’re looking for a better rental experience in Englewood Cliffs or the surrounding area, go no farther than Real Property Management Concierge. Our dedication to 100% tenant satisfaction and meeting your specific requirements makes us stand out from the competition. Look at our currently available listings or contact us at 201-514-1603 today!

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