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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. Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular due to their numerous benefits, such as being environmentally friendly and cost-efficient. However, if you rent a home, you may encounter difficulties owning an electric car. 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

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

Consider installing a charging station or making any other electrical modifications in your rented property. In that scenario, you should review your lease agreement thoroughly and get advice from your landlord or property management firm. In addition to ensuring that you are sticking to any regulations mentioned in the lease agreement, this will assist you avoid any potential problems or conflicts.

 

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

The installation of 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 important to keep in mind that certain portable chargers require a dedicated circuit, so check the manufacturer’s specifications before buying.

 

Other Considerations

  • Public Charging: Public charging infrastructure is a viable option, but it’s not necessarily the most practical or economical choice. 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: The cost of charging an electric vehicle can add up quickly, so it’s important to learn about any discounts or incentives offered by your utility company. 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: Electric vehicle drivers may quickly find charging stations in their area, check their availability, and track the charging process using specialized EV charging apps. These apps provide a seamless and trouble-free EV charging experience.

 

Owning an electric car as a renter could demand a greater degree of planning and collaboration, but it can still be a feasible and environmentally beneficial alternative. With the growing availability of charging stations and the wider movement toward sustainability, a rising number of tenants are opting for electric mobility. To guarantee a smooth move, do your research and get in touch properly with your landlord. By taking these actions, you may enjoy the many advantages of owning an electric car while simultaneously helping the environment.

 

We are committed to improving your rental living experience in Front Royal and the surrounding area at Real Property Management Elevation. Our dedication to assuring tenant happiness and meeting your specific needs distinguishes us in the business. Visit our available listings or call us at 540-409-5857 today!

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