Can You Install an EV Charger in a Sydney Apartment?
Direct Answer: Yes — NSW strata law allows lot owners to install EV chargers in apartment buildings and strata complexes. Under the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 (amended 2024), lot owners can apply to the strata committee for approval to install an EV charger on common property (car park). The strata committee cannot unreasonably refuse. Cable Co handles the entire process — from strata proposal preparation to load assessment, installation, and commissioning.
The biggest barrier to EV adoption in Australia isn't range anxiety — it's charging access for apartment dwellers. With 40% of Sydney residents living in apartments or strata buildings, solving strata EV charging is critical to the electric vehicle transition. Cable Co has installed EV chargers in over 50 strata buildings across Sydney and has developed a streamlined process that addresses every common strata objection.
The Strata EV Charger Approval Process
Step 1: Contact Cable Co for a Free Strata Assessment
We visit your building, assess the electrical infrastructure, identify the optimal charger location, and prepare a detailed strata proposal. This assessment is completely free and takes approximately 45 minutes.
Step 2: Strata Proposal Submission
Cable Co prepares a professional strata proposal that addresses every common concern: electrical capacity, fire safety, insurance implications, cost allocation, and future scalability. We include load management specifications, electrical drawings, and a fixed-price quote. This proposal is designed to be presented at your next strata committee meeting or AGM.
Step 3: Strata Committee Approval
Under NSW law, the strata committee can approve EV charger installations as a "common property rights by-law" at a general meeting. A 75% special resolution is typically required. Cable Co can attend the meeting (in person or via video) to answer technical questions from committee members.
Step 4: Installation
Once approved, Cable Co schedules installation — typically within 2 weeks. Installation takes 4–8 hours depending on the distance from the switchboard to the car space. We handle all Ausgrid/Endeavour Energy applications, metering, and compliance certificates.
Strata EV Charger Costs in Sydney (2026)
| Scenario | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Car space near switchboard (<15m) | $2,500–$3,500 | Most straightforward installation |
| Car space moderate distance (15–30m) | $3,500–$4,500 | Additional cabling and conduit |
| Car space far from switchboard (30m+) | $4,500–$6,000 | May require cable tray or trenching |
| Load management system (per charger) | $300–$600 | Required when building capacity is limited |
| Dedicated circuit from main switchboard | Included | Always included in Cable Co quotes |
| Strata proposal preparation | Free | Included with Cable Co assessment |
| Ausgrid/Endeavour application | Included | Cable Co handles all network applications |
*All prices include charger supply, installation, metering, compliance certificate, and Cable Co's Lifetime Workmanship Warranty. 0% interest-free finance available through Brighte.*
Overcoming Common Strata Objections
"The building doesn't have enough electrical capacity"
This is the most common objection — and it's usually solvable. Cable Co installs smart load management systems that dynamically allocate available capacity across multiple chargers. A building with 100A spare capacity can support 8–12 chargers using load management, rather than the 2–3 chargers that would be possible without it.
"It's a fire risk"
EV chargers installed by licensed electricians to Australian Standards are no more of a fire risk than any other electrical appliance. Cable Co installs dedicated circuits with appropriate circuit breakers, RCDs, and isolation switches. All installations comply with AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules) and include a Certificate of Compliance.
"It will increase everyone's electricity costs"
Individual metering ensures the EV owner pays for their own electricity consumption. Cable Co installs dedicated meters (or sub-meters) so the charger's electricity usage is billed directly to the lot owner — not to the strata common electricity account.
"What about future residents who also want chargers?"
Cable Co designs every strata installation with future scalability in mind. We install cable pathways, switchboard capacity, and load management infrastructure that can accommodate additional chargers as demand grows — without requiring major electrical upgrades later.
Brighte 0% Finance for Strata EV Chargers
Cable Co offers Brighte 0% interest-free finance on all strata EV charger installations. A $3,500 installation costs as little as $97/month over 36 months or $59/month over 60 months — with no deposit and no early repayment penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my strata committee refuse an EV charger installation?
Under NSW strata law, the committee cannot unreasonably refuse an EV charger installation. If the installation meets safety standards, doesn't cause unreasonable damage to common property, and the lot owner covers all costs, refusal may be challenged at NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).
Do I need a dedicated meter for my strata EV charger?
Yes — individual metering is standard practice and ensures you pay for your own electricity. Cable Co installs dedicated meters as part of every strata EV charger installation.
Can multiple apartments share one EV charger?
Yes — shared chargers with booking systems are an option for buildings where individual chargers aren't practical. Cable Co can install shared charging stations with RFID access and individual billing.
What if my car space is visitor parking or common property?
Charger installation on common property requires a by-law passed at a general meeting (75% special resolution). Cable Co prepares the by-law documentation as part of our strata proposal service.