Building a New Multifamily Property? EV Charging Isn't Optional Anymore.

Diana Cwick
May 12
2 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

If you're planning new multifamily construction, EV charging infrastructure is no longer something you can add later. In a growing number of states and cities, it's required before you get your building permit.

As of 2026, 13 states and 14 additional cities have adopted building codes that require EV charging infrastructure in new multifamily developments. And that number is growing every year.

Where the Mandates Are

From coast to coast, states and cities are writing EV charging into building code for new construction. California now requires every new multifamily building to be 100% EV-ready. Denver requires EV infrastructure in all new multifamily developments. Cities like Atlanta and Austin have set their own aggressive benchmarks, and states from Massachusetts to Colorado to New Mexico have active mandates on the books.

The specifics vary by location, but the direction is the same everywhere: new multifamily projects must include EV charging infrastructure from day one, and the requirements keep getting stricter.

Watch Out for Hidden Network Fees

Building codes set the minimum, but overbuilding EV-ready infrastructure beyond actual demand can backfire. When a property is required to wire more spaces than residents will realistically use, the result is unnecessary network fees from the EV Charging Vendor. For developments already working with little to no budget for EV charging amenities, those added costs become a real burden on operating expenses.

What Developers Should Do Now

Check your local requirements early in the design process.
Even if your state hasn't adopted a code yet, your city or county might have. Local jurisdictions can adopt "reach codes" that exceed state minimums.

Plan your electrical capacity upfront.
It's the single biggest factor in installation cost, and it's far cheaper to spec into the original plans than to upgrade later.

Bring in an EV charging partner before construction starts.

The right partner can help you meet code requirements, avoid overbuilding, and ensure your infrastructure is ready to scale as EV adoption grows. REVS has a dedicated New Construction team with a wealth of knowledge, ready to guide you so you get it right the first time.

EV charging mandates for new multifamily construction aren't coming. They're here. Build it in now, or pay more to add it later.

REVS helps developers and property owners plan EV charging infrastructure from the ground up, all at no upfront cost for qualifying properties. Contact us to learn more.