Why Suffolk County Homeowners Need Property Surveys Before Installing Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
As electric vehicle adoption surges across Suffolk County, homeowners are increasingly looking to install charging stations on their properties. However, before breaking ground on any EV charging installation, there’s a critical first step that many overlook: obtaining a comprehensive property survey. This essential preparation can save homeowners thousands of dollars in costly mistakes and ensure a smooth, compliant installation process.
The Hidden Complexity of EV Charging Installation
Installation costs can vary depending on your current electrical infrastructure and charging requirements. That’s why we always offer a complimentary survey of your property. While the concept of installing an EV charger may seem straightforward, the reality involves numerous technical considerations that require precise property information.
In addition to the level-specific regulations listed below, all EV charger installations require a building permit from your municipality. For Suffolk County homeowners, this permitting process requires detailed property documentation that only a professional survey can provide.
Why Property Surveys Are Essential for EV Charging Projects
A property survey serves as the foundation for successful EV charging installation by providing critical information about your property’s boundaries, utilities, and compliance requirements. There shall be submitted with every application for a building permit or universal design permit four copies of a survey, prepared by a registered land surveyor, of the proposed building plot with respect to any construction, alteration or use having a cost in excess of $2,000, which most EV charging installations exceed.
Minimizing the distance of the EV chargers from the point of power connection can keep the cost of installation low. Placing EV charging where employees/residents/guests are most likely to use it (e.g., near the building they work or live in) is preferable, particularly if the location also is close to the point of power connection. A survey helps identify the optimal placement that balances convenience with cost-effectiveness.
Suffolk County’s Unique Requirements
Suffolk County presents unique challenges for EV charging installation due to its diverse terrain, coastal location, and strict building codes. Provide a survey indicating the proposed work on the property. This can be done in two ways: A certified sealed survey done by a land surveyor. The county’s requirements ensure that installations meet safety standards while protecting property values and environmental considerations.
Charging stations must be located in a garage or on a parking pad within the property lines. They cannot be installed on a public right-of-way, which would result in a zoning violation. If the charging station is to be installed outside, it must be protected with a bollard or curb stop to prevent a vehicle from hitting it and causing an electrical hazard. These placement requirements make accurate property boundary identification crucial.
Key Survey Information for EV Charging Installation
A comprehensive property survey for EV charging installation should include several critical elements. The proposed structure, showing front, side and rear yards… The location and number of the two nearest utility poles… The total area of the plot and the dimensions of the plot indicated by metes and bounds. This information helps installers plan the most efficient and code-compliant charging station placement.
Understanding utility locations is particularly important since the further the charger is from your home’s utility panel, the more costly the installation. A survey identifies existing electrical infrastructure and helps determine the most cost-effective installation approach.
The Cost of Skipping a Survey
While homeowners might be tempted to skip the survey to save money upfront, this decision often leads to expensive complications. Property layouts can vary, that is why we always request pictures before providing an electric vehicle (EV) charging point installation plan. It is important that we have a good understanding of your property and individual requirements so that there are no hidden surprises when we arrive to install your new EV charging point.
Without accurate property information, installations may violate setback requirements, encroach on easements, or require costly relocations after work begins. As a minimum requirement, any amount of EV charging that is available to the public will require at least one van-accessible EV parking space. This is an important consideration for property owners because accessible parking spaces have larger dimensions than regular parking spaces, as well as access aisles and accessible paths of travel.
Choosing the Right Survey Professional
For Suffolk County homeowners planning EV charging installations, working with an experienced local surveyor is essential. Island-Wide Land Surveyors brings over five decades of service in Nassau & Suffolk County NY, we bring unparalleled expertise in land surveying. Our commitment to professionalism, reliability, and rapid response sets us apart.
As your trusted Property surveyor Suffolk County, Island-Wide Land Surveyors understands the unique challenges of Long Island properties. Dedicated to providing fast and proficient land surveying services. Being local experts, we take pride in our thorough grasp of Long Island’s terrain. Our rates consistently undercut those of our competitors, along with quicker turnaround times.
Planning Your EV Charging Project
The most successful EV charging installations begin with proper planning, and that planning starts with an accurate property survey. Island-Wide Land Surveyors offers expert land surveyor services for both residential and commercial property owners in Suffolk & Nassau County, NY. Boundary Surveys establish property lines, confirm accurate property corners as described in a deed, reveal easements, encroachments, and adherence to state or local regulations.
By investing in a professional property survey before beginning your EV charging installation, you’re protecting your investment and ensuring a smooth, compliant project. A land survey is essential before buying or selling property, starting construction, or settling disputes. A mistake in boundary lines can be costly on Long Island, where property values are high. Surveyors help keep peace of mind by providing a legal document that clearly outlines what belongs to whom.
Conclusion
Installing an EV charging station is an excellent investment in your property’s future, but it requires careful planning and professional expertise. A comprehensive property survey provides the foundation for a successful installation while protecting you from costly mistakes and compliance issues. With Suffolk County’s complex regulations and unique property characteristics, working with experienced professionals like Island-Wide Land Surveyors ensures your EV charging project starts on solid ground.
Don’t let the excitement of going electric rush you past this critical first step. Contact a qualified surveyor today to begin your EV charging installation journey the right way.