What the LADWP EV charger rebate covers

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) offers a rebate toward the cost of installing a Level 2 electric vehicle charger at your home. The rebate amount depends on the type of charger you choose and whether you own or rent your property. LADWP pays a portion of the installation cost directly to the contractor after the work is complete and inspected.

This is a rebate, not a grant — you pay the full cost upfront, then LADWP reimburses you afterward. The rebate covers both the charger equipment itself and the labor to install it, as long as the work meets LADWP's technical standards and is done by a contractor on their approved list.

LADWP also administers other EV incentives through state and federal programs, so you may be able to stack this rebate with additional discounts. The total rebate you receive depends on which programs you use and in what order you claim them.

Key Takeaways

  • LADWP's rebate covers part of the cost to install a Level 2 home charger, and you must use a contractor from LADWP's approved list.
  • You pay the contractor the full amount, then submit paperwork to LADWP to receive your rebate check after installation is inspected.
  • The rebate amount varies based on charger type and whether you own or rent, so check LADWP's current rates before you get quotes.
  • You may be able to combine this rebate with state or federal incentives, but the order in which you claim them affects your total savings.
  • Installation must meet electrical code and LADWP's safety standards, which is why using an approved contractor protects you from doing the work twice.

How to find LADWP's approved contractor list

Before you get any quotes, visit LADWP's website and look for their EV charging rebate page. This page lists contractors who have been vetted to install chargers to LADWP's standards. Using a contractor not on this list means LADWP will not reimburse you, even if the work is done correctly.

The approved list includes both large electrical companies and smaller local contractors. Many contractors on the list can walk you through the rebate process and may even handle the paperwork submission for you. When you call for a quote, ask the contractor whether they are familiar with LADWP's rebate and what paperwork they typically submit.

If you cannot find a contractor near you on the list, contact LADWP directly — their phone number and email are on the rebate page. They can tell you whether new contractors have been added or whether there are alternative options in your area.

Rebate amounts and what affects them

LADWP's rebate amounts change periodically and depend on the charger model and your housing type. Homeowners and renters may receive different rebate levels. The rebate is typically a fixed dollar amount per charger, not a percentage of your total cost, so a more expensive installation does not automatically mean a larger rebate.

Before you request quotes, check LADWP's website for the current rebate schedule. Write down the exact rebate amounts so you can factor them into your decision about which charger to install. Some chargers cost more upfront but may may have access to for a higher rebate, while others are cheaper but have a lower rebate attached.

If you are a renter, you will need written permission from your landlord or property manager before LADWP will process your rebate. This permission must be submitted with your rebate request, so get it in writing before you sign a contract with the contractor.

The step-by-step rebate process

The process begins when you choose a contractor from LADWP's approved list and get a written quote. Once you agree to the price and sign a contract, the contractor schedules the installation. You do not need LADWP's permission before the work starts, but you should notify them that you plan to claim the rebate so they can tell you what documents to save.

After the charger is installed, LADWP or the city's building department will inspect it to make sure it meets code and safety standards. This inspection is separate from the contractor's work — it is a final check by an official inspector. Once the inspection passes, you gather your paperwork and submit your rebate request to LADWP.

The paperwork typically includes the original invoice from the contractor, proof of payment, the inspection report, and a completed rebate form. LADWP processes these requests in the order they receive them. Once approved, they mail you a check or process a refund to your original payment method, depending on how you paid the contractor.

What paperwork you will need

Start collecting documents as soon as you sign a contract with the contractor. You will need the signed contract itself, the itemized invoice showing the charger model and installation labor separately, and proof that you paid the full amount. If you paid by credit card or check, keep that receipt or statement.

After installation, you will receive an inspection report from the city or LADWP. This document confirms that the charger meets electrical code and is safe to use. Save this report — it is required to claim your rebate. You will also need LADWP's rebate form, which you can read from their website or request from the contractor.

If you are a renter, add a signed letter from your landlord or property manager stating that they consent to the charger installation. This letter should be on the property's letterhead or include the property address and the landlord's contact information. Without this letter, LADWP will not process your rebate.

Combining LADWP's rebate with other incentives

California and the federal government also offer EV charger incentives. LADWP's rebate can sometimes be stacked with these programs, meaning you could receive money from multiple sources. However, the order in which you claim rebates matters — some programs will not pay if another program has already paid for the same work.

Before you install the charger, research what other rebates you might be may be able to access for. The California Energy Commission and the federal government's Alternative Fuels Data Center both list current programs. Ask your contractor whether they are familiar with combining rebates and in what order to claim them to maximize your total savings.

If you claim a state or federal rebate first, tell LADWP the amount you received when you submit your rebate request. They will adjust their rebate accordingly so you do not receive more total money than the charger and installation actually cost. This is called the "net cost" rule, and it prevents double-payment.

What happens if the installation fails inspection

If the inspector finds that the charger or wiring does not meet code, the contractor must fix the problem before you can claim your rebate. This is why using an approved contractor matters — they know LADWP's standards and are less likely to install something that will fail inspection. If the work does fail, the contractor is responsible for correcting it at no extra charge to you.

Once the contractor makes the repairs, the inspector will return to check the work again. You cannot submit your rebate request until the inspection passes. This process usually takes a few weeks, but it protects you from paying for work that is not safe or does not meet code.

If a contractor refuses to fix failed work or disappears after installation, contact LADWP when ready. They can advise you on your options and may be able to help you recover your money or find another contractor to complete the job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install the charger myself and still get the rebate?

No. LADWP requires that installation be done by a contractor on their approved list. This is a safety requirement — improper electrical work can damage your home or create a fire hazard. Even if you are an electrician, you must use an approved contractor for LADWP to reimburse you.

How long does it take to receive the rebate check?

After you submit your paperwork and LADWP approves your request, the check typically arrives within four to eight weeks. Processing time depends on how many requests LADWP has received and whether they need to ask you for additional documents. Contact LADWP if you have not received your check after eight weeks.

What if I move before I receive my rebate?

You can still claim the rebate, but you must provide LADWP with your new mailing address. The rebate is tied to the charger installation, not to your LADWP account, so moving does not disqualify you. Update your address with LADWP before you move so your check goes to the right place.

Do I need to own my home to get the rebate?

Renters can receive the rebate, but you must have written permission from your landlord or property manager. This permission must be submitted with your rebate request. Some landlords may not allow permanent charger installation, so check your lease and ask before you hire a contractor.

Can I claim the rebate if I already installed a charger before learning about it?

LADWP's rebate program typically only covers chargers installed after you submit your rebate request. If you installed a charger before explore, you likely cannot claim the rebate. Contact LADWP directly to ask whether there are any exceptions or whether they have a program for existing installations.