As more electric vehicles (EVs) hit Singapore’s roads, shared condo charging stations are becoming a hot commodity. But with limited charging points, a little courtesy goes a long way. Here’s a simple guide to EV charging etiquette, ensuring smooth and fair use for all residents.
TL;DR – quick charging etiquette tips
✅ Charge only when needed, don’t treat the charger like your personal parking spot.
✅ Unplug when done, free up the charger for the next resident.
✅ Follow your condo’s charging rules.
✅ Report faulty chargers to help keep the system running smoothly.
✅ Be considerate, avoid blocking the space if you’re not charging.
1. Don’t hog the charging station
Condo chargers are shared facilities, not personal parking lots. Once your EV is charged, move your car so others can use the station.
💡 Tip: Set an alarm to remind yourself when charging is done. Some EV apps notify you when the session ends!
2. Unplug and vacate
Leaving your car plugged in longer than necessary? That’slike taking up a car wash bay long after your car has been cleaned. If you’refully charged, vacate the spot promptly so others can charge.
🚨 Some condos have rules on idle fees—check with your MCST to avoid unnecessary charges.
3. Follow condo charging rules
Many condos have booking systems or time limits to prevent bottlenecks. Always follow the guidelines and respect any time slots allocated.
🔍 Check your condo’s policies:
- Is there a charging duration limit?
- Are there any peak-hour restrictions?
Some condos have implemented a hogging fee, to avoid incurringthe penalty, be sure to vacate the EV charging lot after charging!
4. Report Faulty Chargers
If you come across a faulty charging station, don’t assume someone else will report it. Inform your MCST or EV service provider so it can be fixed quickly.
Action: Take a photo and report via your condo’s resident app or WhatsApp group. 💬
5. Be Considerate, Don’t Block the Space
If you’re not charging, don’t park in the EV spot. It’s frustrating for drivers who actually need to charge.
💡 Tip: Even if your condo has few EV owners now, respect the designated charging bays so they remain accessible.
Why This Matters
EV adoption is growing in Singapore, and condos need fair charging habits to keep things running smoothly. Practicing good charging etiquette ensures that everyone gets a fair chance to charge, avoids unnecessary disputes, and promotes a harmonious living environment.
Common EV Charging Questions in Condos
❓What happens if someone leaves their car plugged in for too long?
This depends on the condo’s rules. Some MCSTs implement idle fees after a certain time, while others rely on residents to be considerate. If a car is left charging for an excessive period, you may notify the condo management.
❓Can I unplug someone else’s car if they’ve been charging too long?
Generally, no. Unplugging another driver’s EV without permission may cause disputes. If an EV has finished charging but remains plugged in, it’s best to check your condo’s policy or report it to the MCST.
❓What should I do if I need to charge but all stations are occupied?
Check if your condo has a charging schedule or WhatsApp group for EV users. You may also politely inform your condo management if certain vehicles are frequently occupying the station longer than necessary.
❓How can I request more EV charging stations in my condo?
Approach your MCST or Residents’ Committee with a request, especially if EV adoption in your condo is rising. Many condos expand their charging infrastructure when demand increases.
❓Why are some chargers slower than others?
Charging speed depends on the charger’s power output, your car’s charging capabilities, and even shared power distribution in some condos. If your EV is charging slower than expected, check if other cars are plugged in at the same time, as shared power may reduce individual charging speeds.
To find out more about why your car isn’t charging as fast as you expected, check out this article here: Why your electric car isn’t charging as fast as you’d expect
