Harris Properties Targets Electric Vehicles as Challenge to Condominium Associations

Management Company Offers Solutions to Potential Problem

CULVER CITY, CA--Dec. 1, 2011: Harris Properties, prominent Culver City, California based property management company, is at the forefront of addressing the growing issue of electric vehicles (EV) and the inherent problems which condominium owners and their Boards may face as their popularity grows.

"There is generally a need for agreement between the buyer and the association on the installation of the EV charging station," said Lionel Harris, Founder and CEO of the 30 year-old firm.  "Where will the station be located…on common area or separate property?"

According to Harris, a host of additional issues must be addressed when pursuing this ever more popular "green" initiative including:  Who pays for the electricity and how and what is the billing process? What are the costs of installation, maintenance and removal and who absorbs these?  How are disclosures made to residents and prospective buyers?  What modifications are needed to existing governing documents?

Not only does the buyer need to settle with the Board, but there are also municipal permits required as well as notification to utility service providers who may be interested in additional loads on installed equipment.  Currently, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power prohibits resale of electricity from the association to an individual.

Bill SB209, recently passed by the California Legislature, prohibits an association from arbitrarily denying installation of an EV station that is within the association's reasonable architectural restrictions.  However, it does not prohibit the buyer from planning ahead before committing to a purchase.  Adds Harris, "Anyone seriously considering an EV should begin the process early."

About Harris Properties

Founded in 1981, Harris Properties is a leading Southern California residential property management company, managing both apartments and condominium associations.  In order to maintain the highest level of professional competence, it is the company's policy that all managers receive certifications from the California Association of Community Managers and Community Associations Institute.  Founder and CEO, Lionel Harris holds a California real estate license as well as certifications from the Institute of Real Estate Management and the previously noted Community Associations.