Will AC Chargers Be Banned? The 2026 Facts for Home and Apartment Charging

You've become an electric vehicle owner, but you don't live in a detached house. Your car sits in the car park of an apartment building or residential complex, and naturally you ask:

“Can I install an EV charger in my own parking space?”

The clear answer: Yes — when the necessary administrative and technical conditions are met, an EV charger can be installed in apartment and residential-complex car parks.

However, buying the device and simply hanging it on the wall is not enough. The legal status of the parking space, where the electrical line will be drawn from, the building's existing power capacity, grounding, the fuse system and how consumption will be measured must all be determined in advance.

In this guide, WiseCar explains the process apartment and complex residents should follow in a simple, clear and practical way.

Short Answer: Do You Need Permission from the Management?

The answer depends on the status of the parking space.

Installation in a Shared Car Park Area

If the charger will be installed in the shared car park area of the building or complex, a decision by the majority of unit owners by number and land share is sufficient.

For charging units that don't form a separate structure and don't require a building permit, the four-fifths majority requirement debated in the past is not required.

Installation in a Parking Space Belonging to an Individual Unit

If the parking area appears in the title deed or management plan as an annex of an individual unit, and:

• No changes are made to the existing shared electrical installation,
• Other units are not affected,
• No damage is done to common areas,

a unit owners' board decision may not be required. Even so, informing the management in writing before starting installation prevents potential future disputes.

Important Warning

Providing paid charging service to people outside the complex or building is different from personal use. The simplified process announced by the Ministry for apartments and complexes does not cover providing commercial charging service to outsiders.

7 Steps to Install a Charger in an Apartment Building

1. Find Out the Legal Status of the Parking Space

First, find out whether your parking space is:

• A private area allocated to you,
• An annex of an individual unit in the title deed,
• Or entirely a common-use area.

You can find this information from the title deed, the architectural plan, the complex management plan or management records.

A parking space being a common area is not an obstacle to installation. However, installation in a common area requires a decision by the unit owners' board by number and land-share majority.

2. Submit a Written Application to the Complex Management

Instead of a verbal conversation, it's healthier to submit a short, clear petition to the management board.

The application should include:

• The parking space where the charger will be installed,
• The brand and model of the device,
• The maximum charging power,
• Which meter the electricity will be drawn from,
• The route the cable line will follow,
• That installation will be done by authorized technical personnel,
• That electricity consumption will be covered by the user,
• That no damage will be done to common areas.

If installation is in a common area, the decision taken must be clearly recorded in the meeting minutes.

Rather than merely stating “a charger may be installed,” the decision should also specify the device's location, the electricity source, the method of measuring consumption and who is responsible for installation costs.

3. Have the Electrical Infrastructure Checked

Before choosing a charger, the building's electrical infrastructure should be examined.

The main points to check are:

• Whether the building has single-phase or three-phase electricity,
• The current capacity of the main panel,
• The contracted power of the flat,
• The distance between the charging point and the electrical panel,
• The state of the grounding system,
• The suitability of the cable route,
• Other high-power devices running at the same time,
• Whether a power increase is needed.

For charging units to be installed in complex and apartment car parks, the Ministry clearly states that the relevant electricity authority's favorable opinion must be obtained. Other electrical legislation and technical requirements must also be followed.

With the amendment made to the Zoned Areas Development Regulation on 11 March 2025, the electrical installation required for installing a charging unit in the shared car parks of complexes and apartments was also added to the relevant regulations.

Buying the device first and thinking about electricity later is the wrong order. First an infrastructure survey, then the right device selection.

4. Decide Which Meter the Electricity Will Come From

Three basic methods can be used in apartments.

Connection from the Flat's Meter

An independent line is drawn from the flat's electrical panel to the car park. The electricity used is reflected directly on the flat's bill.

This method is the clearest solution for who owns the consumption. However, if the distance between the flat and the car park is long, cable and labor costs can increase.

Connection from the Common Area Meter

The charger is connected to the common electrical panel and a separate energy metering system is used for the device.

In this method, it's important that consumption is recorded regularly and that the method of collecting it from the user is written into the management decision.

Shared Smart Charger

In complexes with multiple EV users, a shared smart charger can be installed.

Via an RFID card, mobile app or user account, you can track:

• Who uses the device,
• How many kWh of energy is consumed,
• How long charging lasts,
• Consumption per user.

WiseCar WTA models offer features such as an RFID option, mobile app, adding users, device sharing and spending tracking.

5. Choose the Power Suitable for Your Vehicle and Infrastructure

The highest-power device is not the right device for every user.

Three basic factors determine charging speed:

• The maximum power the charger can deliver,
• The vehicle's AC charge acceptance capacity,
• The power the building and electrical line can supply.

If your vehicle accepts a maximum of 11 kW on AC charging, it will still draw at most 11 kW even when connected to a 22 kW device.

That said, a 22 kW device can be a long-term investment for:

• Those who plan to change vehicles in the future,
• Those who will use the same device for more than one vehicle,
• Those with a three-phase infrastructure.

3.5 kW

Suitable for standard, low-power use. Can be preferred for users with low daily mileage or for emergency charging.

7.4 kW

One of the most balanced options in apartments with a single-phase infrastructure. The vehicle is charged overnight and most users set off in the morning with sufficient range.

11 kW

A powerful and efficient solution for users who have three-phase electricity and whose vehicle supports 11 kW AC charging.

22 kW

Requires a three-phase infrastructure, adequate contracted power and correct electrical installation. The vehicle's AC charging capacity must also be checked.

Calculate the charging time and estimated cost for your vehicle.

Which WiseCar Model Is Suitable for Apartments and Complexes?

WiseCar WTP2 – 3.5 kW and 7.4 kW

A practical option for users with a single-phase electrical infrastructure.

It can be preferred especially for:

• Parking areas allocated to individuals,
• Installations where a line will be drawn from the flat's meter,
• Users who want a portable device,
• Those who mostly charge their car overnight.

WiseCar WT1 Smart – 7.4 kW Wall-Mounted

Suitable for apartment residents who want fixed, organized and tethered use.

Because the device is fixed to the wall, there's no need to take the device out of the trunk every time. It creates an organized charging point in individually allocated parking areas.

WiseCar WTP3 – 11 kW and 22 kW Portable

A high-power, portable solution for users with a three-phase infrastructure.

Suitable for users who want to carry their device between home, workplace and travel. WiseCar AI-supported models offer smart features such as starting and stopping charging, amperage adjustment, consumption reporting and fault diagnosis.

WiseCar WTA – 22 kW Smart Wallbox

Stands out for users who want a fixed, professional and smart charging point, and for shared complex applications.

Main features:

• AC charging up to 22 kW,
• WiseCar mobile app,
• WiseCar AI support,
• RFID card option,
• Adding and sharing users,
• Energy and cost reports,
• Amperage adjustment,
• Remote start and stop,
• IP65 outdoor protection,
• Type 2 vehicle compatibility.

To benefit from the full power capacity of the WiseCar WTA, a three-phase electrical infrastructure, suitable cable cross-section and adequate contracted power are required.

WiseCar WTL – 22 kW

A fixed wall-mounted alternative for users who want modern design, a mobile app and WiseCar AI features together. It can be considered especially by users who want a clean and smart installation in a personal parking area.

Essentials for a Safe Installation

An EV charger is powerful electrical equipment that operates under high current for hours. It should therefore not be treated like an ordinary socket connection.

The installation should include at least the following:

• A dedicated independent energy line for the charger,
• Cable cross-section appropriate to distance and power,
• A separate circuit breaker,
• Appropriate residual-current protection,
• Healthy grounding,
• Protective cable channel or conduit,
• Adequate IP protection outdoors,
• Connection by a licensed electrician,
• Post-installation testing and commissioning.

According to the WiseCar installation guide, the cable cross-section for 7.4 kW, 11 kW and 22 kW devices should be calculated separately based on power, number of phases and cable distance. A dedicated circuit breaker and residual-current device should be used for the charger, and grounding should be checked.

Can You Charge with an Extension Cord?

Long-duration vehicle charging should not be done with randomly chosen household extension cords.

Insufficient cable cross-section and low-quality connection points can cause:

• Overheating,
• Voltage drop,
• Socket and plug deformation,
• Blown fuses,
• Fire risk.

If there is a long distance between the charging point and the panel, a fixed installation of the appropriate cross-section should be prepared.

What Should Be Done If There Are Multiple Vehicles in the Complex Car Park?

Today there may be only one electric vehicle in the complex. But within a few years this number can rise quickly.

Therefore, when preparing the infrastructure, not only today's user but also future demand should be considered.

It's useful for complex managements to create a common plan on the following:

• For how many vehicles infrastructure will be prepared,
• Total usable electrical power,
• Whether vehicles will charge simultaneously or in turn,
• Per-user consumption measurement,
• The capacity of the common panel,
• The location of cable trays and shafts,
• Preventing unauthorized use,
• How new users will be added to the system.

In systems with multiple devices, all devices running at maximum power simultaneously can increase the building's electrical load. In such cases, limiting charging power, directing users to different hours, or using a suitable energy management system can be considered.

In models supported by the WiseCar mobile app, the start and end of charging, consumption, cost and device status can be tracked.

What Determines the Cost of Installing a Charger in an Apartment?

It's not right to give a single price that applies to everyone for installation.

The main factors affecting total cost are:

• The distance between the electrical panel and the parking space,
• The cross-section and type of cable to be used,
• Single-phase or three-phase connection,
• Fuse and protection equipment,
• The need for a cable channel or tray,
• Drilling, routing and mounting work,
• The state of the grounding system,
• The need for an electrical power increase,
• Wall-mounted or pedestal installation,
• Whether the car park is open or enclosed,
• Preparing infrastructure for multiple vehicles.

The WiseCar professional installation service covers work such as infrastructure checks, a suitable energy cable, a circuit breaker, a cable channel, commissioning and post-installation guidance. The service scope can vary by city, cable distance and site conditions.

The healthiest approach is to have a survey done and obtain a written installation quote before selecting a device.

Sample Text to Add to the Management Application:

Subject: Request to install an electric vehicle charger

I would like to install an AC electric vehicle charger in the parking area allocated to me in the apartment/complex car park, for the purpose of charging my personal electric vehicle. I hereby state that the installation will be carried out by authorized technical personnel, in accordance with current electrical legislation and required safety standards; and that a dedicated energy line, appropriate fuse, residual-current protection and grounding will be used for the device. All costs related to installation and electricity consumption will be covered by me, no damage will be done to common areas, and the device will not be used to provide commercial charging service to people outside the complex. I kindly request that the necessary review and decision be made.

Full Name:
Unit No:
Parking Space No:
Phone:
Date:
Signature:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a charger without the apartment management?

It depends on the legal status of the parking space. In a shared car park area, a decision must be taken by number and land-share majority. In a parking space that is an annex of an individual unit, a board decision may not be required if the common installation and other units are not affected. In any case, informing the management in writing and verifying technical suitability is recommended.

Can I draw electricity from my flat's meter to the car park?

If there is a technically suitable route, adequate contracted power and safe electrical infrastructure, it can be drawn. The cable cross-section should be calculated based on distance, and a separate line should be created for the charger.

Can I use common-area electricity?

Connection from the common panel can be considered provided there is a management decision and consumption is measured separately. How consumption will be calculated and collected from the user must be clearly stated in the management decision.

Can a 22 kW device be used in an apartment?

It can be used if the building has three-phase electricity, adequate power capacity, suitable cable and the necessary protection equipment. However, if the vehicle accepts 11 kW AC charging, it will draw at most 11 kW through a 22 kW device.

Is a charger safe in an enclosed car park?

With the right device, suitable electrical installation, residual-current protection, grounding and the necessary fire precautions, it can be used safely. Installation must always be carried out by an expert technical team.

Is a separate fuse required for the charger?

Yes. A dedicated independent line, a suitable circuit breaker and residual-current protection should be used for the EV charger.

Can everyone use the charger?

In models with RFID card or mobile app access, unauthorized use can be prevented. This feature is especially important in shared car park and workplace installations.

Should I buy a portable device or a wall-mounted one?

If you'll use the device in different places, a portable model; if you'll charge regularly in the same parking space every day, a wall-mounted model is more practical.

Conclusion: Charging in an Apartment Is Possible with the Right Process

Living in an apartment does not mean you can't charge your electric vehicle at home.

The right process should proceed as follows:

Find out the status of the parking area → complete the management process → have an electrical survey done → choose the power suitable for your vehicle → have the safe installation done by an expert team.

The most critical point is not just buying a powerful device. Safe electrical infrastructure, correct installation and after-sales technical service you can reach are at least as important as the device.

WiseCar offers different power options to home, apartment, complex and workplace users with its AC electric vehicle chargers manufactured in Turkey, internationally CE-certified and backed by a 2-year warranty. WiseCar products include alternatives for different needs, from portable models to AI-supported smart wallbox solutions.

To determine the WiseCar model best suited to your vehicle and car park infrastructure, you can reach the WiseCar expert team at 444 999 1.