Apartment Dwellers Struggle with EV Charging Access

Podcast host raises concerns about the lack of charging options for those living in multi-unit buildings

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A podcast host discusses the challenges apartment and condo dwellers face in charging their electric vehicles (EVs), as many buildings prohibit or lack sufficient charging infrastructure. This lack of accessibility is seen as a potential barrier to wider EV adoption, especially in urban areas where street parking is common.

Why it matters

Easy access to charging is crucial for driving EV adoption, but apartment and condo residents often lack the ability to charge their vehicles conveniently at home. This issue disproportionately impacts urban dwellers who may not have access to private garages or driveways, highlighting the need for more widespread public charging options to support the transition to electric mobility.

The details

The podcast host, Rob Hoffmann, lives in a condo in a multi-unit building that banned EV charging a year or two ago. He notes that even for those with garage access, the lack of available chargers and unwillingness of landlords to install them presents a significant challenge. While some newer buildings offer a few chargers in the parking lot or garage, the host suggests this is often not enough to meet the demand.

  • The podcast host's building banned EV charging a year or two ago.

The players

Rob Hoffmann

The host of a podcast that discusses the challenges apartment and condo dwellers face in charging their electric vehicles.

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What they’re saying

“This lack of easy accessibility to chargers is perhaps holding up EV adoption. Imagine living in a Chicago two-flat and street parking -- how do you charge your EV? Even if you have garage access, you probably don't have a charger, and I bet your landlord isn't eager to put one in.”

— Rob Hoffmann, Podcast Host (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The podcast host suggests that the solution is to make chargers as plentiful and fast as gas stations, without the need for individual home chargers.

The takeaway

The lack of convenient charging options for apartment and condo dwellers is a significant barrier to wider EV adoption, particularly in urban areas. Addressing this challenge through increased public charging infrastructure and collaboration between building owners and residents will be crucial for supporting the transition to electric mobility.