Enclosed spaces like underground car parks increase the risk of deadly fires. Heat and toxic fumes become trapped, making fires more intense. As more electric vehicles fill these spaces, the risk of fire grows, especially with the addition of more and more charging stations.

The Threat of EV Fires

EV fires can be more intense and challenging to extinguish. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in EVs, can experience thermal runaway, leading to rapid fires that release toxic fumes. This poses a significant risk to residents and firefighters alike, especially in underground parking.

The Strata Challenge

Strata buildings, with their shared spaces and close proximity of units, present unique challenges when it comes to EV charging. Improper charging practices, outdated electrical infrastructure, and a lack of standardized safety protocols can exacerbate fire risks.

The Urgent Need for EV By-laws in all Buildings

To mitigate these risks, it is imperative for strata committees to implement comprehensive by-laws governing the charging of e-vehicles, e-scooters, and e-bikes.

These by-laws should address:

• Designated Charging Areas: Clearly defined and well-ventilated areas should be designated for charging, away from common areas and flammable materials.
• Approved Charging Equipment: Only certified and safety-compliant chargers should be permitted for use within the building.
• Regular Inspections: Regular inspections of charging infrastructure and adherence to safety guidelines should be mandatory.
• Emergency Response Plans: Clear emergency procedures, including evacuation plans and fire response protocols, should be established.

Taking Proactive Steps

By implementing an EV by-law, strata committees can significantly reduce the fire risks associated with EV charging. It’s crucial to prioritise safety and work collaboratively with residents, building managers, and local authorities to ensure a secure environment for the whole community.

By taking proactive measures and establishing clear guidelines, strata buildings can embrace the benefits of EVs while safeguarding the well-being of their residents and the community at large.

REDUCE YOUR FIRE RISK WITH AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE B-LAW

Adrian Mueller I BCOM LLB FACCAL I Partner

Since 2002 Adrian has specialised almost exclusively in the area of strata law. His knowledge of, and experience in strata law is second to none. He is the youngest person to have been admitted as a Fellow of the ACSL, the peak body for strata lawyers in Australia. Profile I Linked

Contact Us

For all strata law advice including by-laws, building defects and levy collections contact our specialist NSW and Sydney strata lawyers here or call 02 9562 1266, we’re happy to assist.

From October 2023, a new federal policy will come into place for electric vehicles (EV’s) relating to EV charging in apartment blocks.

The new policy states that it is mandatory for all apartment buildings to be built allowing for EV charging infrastructure.

But… what about existing older strata buildings and the growing demand for EV’s and EV charging facilities?

Electric Vehicle Chargers in Older Strata Blocks

Is there a risk for older apartment buildings and their market value if they don’t find a solution for installing the necessary EV charging infrastructure, particularly as these new rules come into place?

Perhaps, just as strata committees have adjusted to retrofitting solar, they must now adjust to retrofitting EV charging solutions for tenants and lot owners.

The NSW Government has developed this guide to assist with getting your building ‘EV ready’.

Do you Need an Electric Vehicle (EV) By-law?

Our specialist team of strata lawyers have drafted many by-laws permitting owners to install electric vehicle chargers in strata buildings. Our EV by-law considers and covers all essentials including these key issues:

• Who’s responsible for paying the cost of electricity used to charge electric vehicles
• Any necessary upgrades to the electricity infrastructure in the building

DO YOU NEED AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE BY-LAW?

Contact Us

For all strata law advice including by-laws, building defects and levy collections contact our specialist NSW and Sydney strata lawyers here or call 02 9562 1266, we’re happy to assist.

There has been a substantial increase in the number of electric vehicles (EV) being purchased by residents of strata buildings from cars to bikes and other vehicles.

A Recent Study

A recent study of the ‘future of EV charging in Sydney apartments’ revealed that:

• 48% of respondents plan to have an electric vehicle of some kind, within the next 5 years
• 78% were in favour of installing charging facilities
• 79% would like a user-pays arrangement for individual vehicle spaces

Does an EV Charger Require Owners Corporation Approval?

The fact is that electric vehicles need charging and that means installing electric vehicle chargers in your apartment block is inevitable.

Installation of electric vehicle chargers will normally involve changes to common property that require owners corporation approval through a by-law.

But what should the by-law cover?

There are two key issues which should be covered in the by-law.

First, who pays for the cost of the electricity that will be used by the EV charger?

Second, what happens if the EV chargers requires the building’s electricity infrastructure to be upgraded (e.g. to 3 phase power)? Who pays for the upgrade?

Get your EV By-law from the Experts 

Our specialist team of strata lawyers have drafted many by-laws permitting owners to install electric vehicle chargers in strata buildings. Our EV by-law covers all essentials including:

• Who is responsible for paying for the cost of electricity used to charge electric vehicles
• Any necessary upgrades to the electricity infrastructure in the building

GET YOUR ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) BY-LAW NOW!

For all strata law advice including by-laws, building defects and levy collections contact our specialist NSW and Sydney strata lawyers here or call 02 9562 1266, we’re happy to assist