HB 5226 - Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Summary

• Voids and makes unenforceable any deed, contract, or covenant that prohibits or unreasonably restricts installation of electric vehicle charging stations in unit owners' units or designated parking spaces within homeowner or condominium associations, effective October 1, 2020.

• Requires associations to process charging station installation applications within 60 days using the same standards as architectural modifications, with automatic approval if no written denial is issued within that timeframe.

• Unit owners must agree in writing to comply with architectural standards, hire licensed contractors, maintain liability insurance naming the association as additional insured, pay all installation and electricity costs, and disclose the charging station to prospective buyers.

• Permits landlords to require tenants in rental agreements to install charging stations at dedicated parking spaces, subject to landlord approval procedures and tenant agreement to pay installation costs, electricity usage, maintenance, repairs, and maintain liability insurance.

• Establishes civil penalties of up to $1,000 for associations that knowingly violate the law and requires prevailing unit owners in enforcement actions to be awarded reasonable attorney's fees.