EV-ready: ≥ 50-A dedicated 240-V circuit OR conduit + breaker space to garage parking; one space per dwelling
DOE ZERH §EV Readiness — Level-2 charging capabilityDescription
ZERH-certified homes must include EV-charging readiness: AT LEAST one parking space served by either (a) a fully-installed Level-2 EV charger or (b) a dedicated 240-V, 50-A circuit + receptacle at the parking space, OR (c) a 1-in conduit from the main panel to the parking space + dedicated breaker space + service capacity. The conduit path must be labeled 'EV Charger' inside the panel.
Why this exists
Same logic as PV-readiness — retrofitting a 50-A charger to a finished garage costs $1500-3000 in electrical + drywall; routing the conduit at framing is $100. Architects designing for ZERH (or any future-oriented home) should make this a standard part of garage electrical.
Categories
Source
Solver enforcement
Browsable only — the solver does not currently enforce this directive (no spec-level data to check against). This entry exists so the architect personas can cite it in conversation and the user can read what the rule says.
Related directives
- Switches, outlets, thermostats: 15 to 48 inch reach range for forward and side reach · HUD FHA Design Manual Requirement 5 (Chapter Five)
- Exterior ramps: maximum slope 1:12, minimum 36 inch clear width · HUD FHA Design Manual Chapter Two §2.7
- Frequently-operated controls (switches, outlets, thermostats) must be in accessible locations · HUD FHA Design Manual Ch 5 §5.2 Switches, outlets, and controls (overview)
- Forward reach with no obstruction: 15-48" AFF · HUD FHA Design Manual Ch 5 §5.5 Forward reach with no obstruction
- Forward reach over an obstruction (counter, base cabinet): 15-48" AFF with knee space below · HUD FHA Design Manual Ch 5 §5.6 Forward reach over an obstruction
Last reviewed 2026-05-15.