EV Charging In Apartments: Rules, Costs And How To Get It Done
So you've finally bought that EV, Congrats! It's clean, future-proof, and makes you feel like Tony Stark on a budget. But now comes the part no one warns you about: charging it.
And if you live in an apartment complex in India, getting a personal EV charging point can feel like navigating a maze of permission letters, passive-aggressive RWAs, and unclear regulations.
Let's get you through the legal rights, step-by-step process, and what to do when your housing society blocks your EV setup and what the law says about it.
The Law Is On Your Side (Mostly)
The Indian government has been pushing EV adoption, and charging infra is key. According to the Ministry of Power's 2022 guidelines, any individual can install a private charging point in their home or apartment parking, provided it meets basic safety norms.
The rules say:
No RWA can unreasonably deny permission to install a charger if it doesn't affect common facilities.
DISCOMs must support the installation and provide connections at notified rates.
In societies, load augmentation or energy metering may be needed but can't be used to delay things endlessly.
Some cities, like Delhi, have gone further. The Delhi EV Policy allows for simplified installations with rebates up to Rs6,000 per charger through empanelled vendors. Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat are also implementing fast-track approvals and subsidies.
If your parking is on stilts or open, make sure there's a safe route for wiring.
Write a formal letter to the Resident Welfare Association (RWA) or builder.
Attach: charger specs, installer details, and a basic wiring diagram.
Mention that the cost will be borne by you, and the wiring will be secure and non-intrusive.
Some RWAs may insist on a 'uniform policy" for all EV users. If they delay indefinitely or reject unfairly, you have legal recourse.
Apply for a dedicated EV meter or an extension from your home meter.
If you want to use the common area meter, the RWA must approve it.
In Delhi, BSES and Tata Power allow online applications via the Switch Delhi platform.
The connection must follow safety standards: MCBs, earthing, and ISI-marked cabling. Licensed electricians are mandatory.
Buy and Install a Certified Charger
You can install a basic 3.3 kW AC charger (normal socket) or a 7.4 kW wall-mounted charger.
Only buy Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) approved models.
Use a certified installer or DISCOM empanelled vendor.
Some EV companies (like Tata, Ather, MG) provide installation support. Others like ChargeZone, Fortum, Statiq, and EESL offer marketplace options.
This step varies widely between states. In Delhi, this is usually waived for low-power chargers.
What If the RWA Says No?
This is common. Some RWAs deny permission citing:
Fire safety concerns
Structural modifications
Fear of setting a precedent
But unless they can prove technical risk, they can't block you legally.
Here's what you can do:
Real-life case: In Mumbai, a resident filed a consumer complaint when his society denied permission. The court ordered the RWA to comply, stating personal EV charging was a 'reasonable amenity."
What It Might Cost
Component Cost Estimate
Basic AC Charger (3.3–7.4kW) Rs12,000 – Rs50,000
Installation (wiring, labor) Rs4,000 – Rs15,000
Meter connection (if new) Rs3,000 – Rs7,000
Load upgrade (if needed) Rs1,000 – Rs5,000
Govt rebate (in Delhi, etc.) Up to Rs6,000
In all, expect a Rs15,000 to Rs60,000 outlay. Over time, home charging is far cheaper than public stations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using common meter without consent: This can lead to disputes later. Always meter separately or take consent in writing.
No written approval: Verbal OKs from builders or RWAs don't hold up in disputes.
Skipping licensed electrician: Can void warranty and insurance.
Overloading without approval: Can trip the main supply and invite penalties.
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Installing an EV charging point in an apartment isn't just possible it's your legal right. The process isn't as smooth as buying the car, but the law is increasingly catching up with the EV wave.
Start with clear paperwork, keep things documented, and don't get bullied by unclear policies or stalling RWAs. Your future ride deserves a future-ready power plug.
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electric car EV Chargers ev charging ev charging stations
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Bengaluru, India, India
First Published:
August 01, 2025, 11:16 IST
News explainers EV Charging In Apartments: Rules, Costs And How To Get It Done
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