EV Charging

Why do I need a permit for my EV charger?

December 8, 2021

Although it is an extra cost, a permit is needed for your EV charger installation. Here are three reasons:

1. City bylaw requires it.

Permits are a legal requirement in British Columbia and are often necessary for home insurance purposes. They help determine whether electrical work is done safely in compliance with the Electrical Codes and Standards in B.C. Electrical permits are required for all electrical work unless you are replacing defective fuses, receptacles, switches, or bulbs with units of similar type and rating, or making minor alterations, repairs, or additions to an installation covered by an existing annual electrical permit. For your safety, please consult with a certified electrician from Amor Energy, your municipality or Technical Safety BC about obtaining an electrical permit before commencing any electrical work. Depending on where your property is located, Technical Safety BC or your municipality will issue the permit. Our certified and red sealed electricians will be responsible for applying the permits for all installations.

2. To avoid future risks.

If the house is damaged in the future because of electrical issues, the permit ensures that you get covered by insurance. The insurance company may deny your claims and blame the charger installation for the damage if you choose not to obtain a permit for it.

3. It increases your property value.

When you rent out or resell your property, an electrical permit with a charger increases its value. Studies have confirmed that properties with EV chargers are more attractive to higher-income buyers.

EV Charging

What is strata approval letter and how to obtain it?

November 29, 2021

For townhouses and condos, a formal, signed strata approval letter is an essential part when applying for an electrical permit for EV charger installations.

  • What is strata approval letter?
    • A strata signed, formal letter stating that the residence has been approved to install EV charger at his/her property. The letter should include the unit number, address, simple description of the installation, the signature, and the contact information of the strata. It can be in jpg, jpeg, word, or pdf versions (see the sample letter below).
  • How to obtain strata approval letter?
    • Clients could contact their strata by themselves to ask for the possibility of installing a car charger/receptacle. Amor Energy can provide all accreditation forms such as WCB clearance letter, Certificate of 5 million Insurance, BC Hydro Alliance Member accreditation and project portfolios if needed.
  • How long is the process?
    • After a free onsite assessment, Amor Energy will provide advice about the installation. The client can then submit the request to strata and have strata provide the approval letter. The process usually takes about 1-2 weeks.