What You Need To Know About EV Chargers When Buying A Home
Over the past few years, electric vehicle chargers have become a hot topic in real estate. I have even written a blog before about whether an EV charger adda value to a property, and you can read that article [here]. But recently a new question came up that I think is worth addressing in detail.
A buyer I know went to their pre-closing walkthrough of a home they were purchasing. They were excited about the house and the features, but quickly noticed something missing. The car charger that had been in the garage during their earlier showings was gone. The seller had unplugged it and taken it with them. The buyer was upset because they assumed the charger would stay. Unfortunately, I had to explain that the seller had every right to remove it.
Why A Car Charger Is Not Considered A Fixture
The key issue here is whether a car charger is considered a fixture or personal property. Most car chargers are simply plugged into a 220V outlet. This makes them no different than a lamp that you plug into a wall socket. Since it is not permanently attached to the property, the charger does not automatically stay with the home. Unless it is written into the contract, the seller is free to take it.
Why It Needs To Be Written Into The Contract
Just like appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, or microwaves, car chargers can either be included or excluded from the sale. If you want the charger, you need to make sure your real estate agent or attorney writes it into the sales contract as an inclusion. If you do not, you may be in for an unpleasant surprise.
Even if the listing description mentions a car charger, that does not guarantee it will stay. The only protection you have as a buyer is to ensure that it is clearly spelled out in your contract.
Avoiding Disappointment At Closing
The last thing you want is to walk into your new home and discover that a key feature you counted on is gone. Car chargers are not cheap. Replacing and installing one can cost hundreds of dollars. By being proactive and making sure the charger is included in your contract, you can save yourself frustration and extra expense.
My Final Thoughts
If you are buying a home with a car charger, take the time to talk to your real estate agent or attorney about including it in your purchase agreement. Do not assume that it will stay. Sellers are within their rights to take the charger unless the contract says otherwise.
If you are buying or selling and have questions like this, I am happy to help. I also have trusted real estate agent contacts all across the country and would be glad to connect you with one of them.
