5 common mistakes when installing a charging station in a condominium

More and more co-owners want to install a charging station for their electric vehicle. But in a condominium, the process can quickly become complex: authorizations, cost management, electrical compatibility… A simple oversight can delay the project or make it non-compliant.

To help you avoid these pitfalls, here are the five most common mistakes made when installing a charging station in a condominium, and how to prevent them with the help of BEQ Technology.

1 – Neglecting to obtain authorization from the condominium association

This is the step that is most often overlooked. In a condo, no major electrical installation can be carried out without the approval of the association or board of directors.

Before starting your project, you must:

• Submit an official request to the association;
• Provide the plans and technical specifications for the charging station;
• Verify that the installation complies with building regulations (safety, aesthetics, noise, etc.).

Since 2018, Quebec’s Act respecting divided co-ownerships recognizes the “right to recharge.” This means that the syndicate cannot refuse without valid reason, but it can impose technical conditions.

BEQ Technology tip: We recommend that you accompany your request with a professional electrical assessment to reassure the syndicate and speed up approval.

2 – Underestimating the electrical capacity of the building

Even though a Level 2 charging station does not consume a lot of power, adding several stations can overload a building’s electrical system.

Before any installation, a master electrician must:

• Assess the capacity of the main electrical panel;
• Check whether a power upgrade is necessary;
• Propose dynamic load management solutions (smart charging) when multiple stations share the same power supply.

Ignoring this step can cause power outages or safety issues, and lead to additional costs down the line.

At BEQ Technology, our experts perform a comprehensive network analysis before any installation to ensure the stability and safety of the system.

3 – Choosing a non-certified installer

A charging station must be installed by a certified electrician to comply with safety standards and be eligible for subsidies.

Installation errors can result in:

• Electrical hazards (overheating, short circuits);
• Loss of manufacturer’s warranty;
• Denial of insurance coverage in the event of an incident.

In condominiums, where multiple systems are interconnected, compliance is crucial.

By choosing BEQ Technology, you can rest assured. Our installations are carried out in accordance with Canadian Electrical Code standards and come with the necessary documentation for subsidies.

4 – Forget about shared management of charging and costs

In a condominium, the charging station can be installed on private or shared property. In the latter case, fair billing for consumption must be provided for.

Smart charging stations allow you to:

• Track each user’s consumption;
• Automatically allocate charging costs;
• Manage schedules to avoid peak demand.

Installing a charging station without this type of solution can lead to conflicts between co-owners or poor cost allocation.

BEQ Technology tip: We offer connected charging stations that are compatible with individual billing, perfect for buildings with multiple users. Our experts are here to advise you!

5 – Ignoring available grants and incentives

Many co-owners do not take advantage of financial assistance programs simply because they are unaware of them. However, in 2025, several subsidies will significantly reduce the cost of installation.

For example:

• The Quebec government’s Roulez vert program offers up to 50% of the cost of the charging station and its installation, under certain conditions, for an individual charging station.
• Some municipalities support condominiums that install collective infrastructure.
• Federal programs may apply to shared residential buildings.

BEQ Technology tip: Refer to official government websites to verify that subsidies are still available!

BEQ TECHNOLOGY, THE KEY TO A SUCCESSFUL INSTALLATION

Installing a charging station in a condominium requires careful preparation, but the benefits are well worth it: autonomy, added value to your property, and a contribution to sustainable mobility.

By avoiding these five mistakes, you can ensure a compliant, safe, and sustainable installation.

At BEQ Technology, we support condominium owners and associations every step of the way: electrical analysis, installation, administrative procedures, and smart charging management.

Our experts are here for you. Make your parking lot ready for the future, starting today.