Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger at home offers convenience, cost savings, and future-proofs your property. However, it requires careful planning, compliance with UK wiring regulations, and a professional electrician to ensure a safe, efficient, and legally compliant installation. At First Call Electrical Services, we specialise in guiding homeowners and landlords through every step of the process—so you can enjoy stress-free charging with confidence.

Why Install a Home EV Charger?

The UK is rapidly moving towards an electric future, with more people switching to EVs every year. Having a home charger offers several clear advantages:

  • Convenience: Charge overnight and start each day with a full battery.
  • Cost savings: Home charging is typically much cheaper than public charging.
  • Property value: Homes with charging points are more appealing to buyers and tenants.
  • Government incentives: Grants can reduce installation costs for eligible homeowners and landlords.

For property owners, whether you live in the home or rent it out, installing a charger is both a practical investment and a way to stay ahead of growing demand.

Do You Need Permission to Install an EV Charger?

In most cases, you can install an EV charger at home without planning permission. Since May 2025, government rules have simplified the process for residential properties.

However, exceptions apply:

  • Listed buildings
  • Conservation areas
  • Flats and shared properties (where landlord or management company consent is required)

Landlords should be aware of the EV chargepoint grant for rental and leasehold properties, which can reduce installation costs by up to 75% (capped at £350). 

Regulations You Must Follow

Electrical safety is paramount. Any installation must comply with:

  • BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations)
  • Building Regulations (Part P) — EV chargers are considered notifiable work.
  • Minimum technical standards for chargepoints (including smart functionality for managing load).

A charger must be installed on a dedicated circuit with appropriate cabling, earthing, and residual current protection. That’s why it’s essential to use qualified professionals, such as the team at First Call Electrical Services.

Types of Home EV Chargers

Slow Charging (3.5 kW)

  • Suitable for overnight charging.
  • Cheapest option, but slower to replenish a large battery.

Fast Charging (7 kW)

  • The most common home solution in the UK.
  • Typically charges most EVs fully overnight (6–8 hours).
  • Requires a dedicated single-phase supply.

Rapid Charging (22 kW and above)

  • Uncommon in domestic settings due to power supply limits.
  • More suited to commercial or fleet environments.

For most UK homes, a 7 kW charger offers the best balance of speed and cost.

Step-by-Step: How Installation Works

1. Site Survey

A professional electrician will assess:

  • Location of your consumer unit (fuse box).
  • Distance and route for cabling.
  • Available electrical capacity.
  • Earthing and bonding requirements.

2. Selecting the Right Charger

Factors to consider include:

  • Your vehicle’s charging capabilities.
  • Whether you want a tethered (with cable) or untethered unit.
  • Smart features for load balancing and scheduled charging.

3. Preparing the Electrical System

Your consumer unit may need upgrading if:

  • It doesn’t have RCD protection.
  • It lacks space for a new circuit.
  • It cannot handle the extra load safely.

4. Installing the Charger

  • Mounted securely on an external or garage wall, 0.75m–1.2m above ground.
  • Weatherproof units protect against the elements.
  • Cables are neatly run and protected in trunking or conduit.

5. Testing and Certification

  • The electrician performs safety tests on the new circuit.
  • An Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) is issued.
  • For homeowners, this ensures Building Regulation compliance.
  • For landlords, it demonstrates safety for tenants.

6. Demonstration

The installer shows you how to use the charger, schedule charging, and safely connect/disconnect your EV.

Cost Considerations

The price of installation varies depending on:

  • Distance from fuse box to charging location.
  • Upgrades required to the consumer unit.
  • Type of charger selected (basic vs smart).
  • Cable length and routing complexity.

Typical costs range from £800 to £1,500, but with available grants, landlords and homeowners may pay significantly less. 

Key Benefits of Installing with Professionals

  1. Safety: Protect your property and avoid hazards from incorrect DIY installations.
  2. Compliance: Ensure the work meets UK standards and is properly certified.
  3. Longevity: Professional installation prolongs the lifespan of your charger.
  4. Support: You get advice on charger selection, placement, and maintenance.
  5. Peace of mind: Ongoing support if issues arise later.

Considerations for Landlords

For landlords, EV chargers are becoming a must-have in rental properties:

  • Tenants increasingly expect charging options.
  • Adding a charger enhances property value and rental appeal.
  • The Landlord EV Chargepoint Grant helps reduce upfront costs.
  • Installing now helps you stay compliant with future energy and housing standards.

Maintaining Your EV Charger

After installation, keep your charger in good condition with:

  • Periodic checks for wear, cracks, or loose cables.
  • Ensuring the unit remains weather-tight.
  • Annual electrical testing alongside your regular property inspections.
  • Firmware updates for smart chargers.

At First Call Electrical Services, we also provide ongoing maintenance support to keep your system safe and efficient.

Why Choose First Call Electrical Services?

With years of experience serving Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and surrounding areas, we are trusted by both homeowners and landlords. Here’s why:

  • Qualified electricians who follow all UK standards.
  • Tailored advice for each property and vehicle type.
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
  • Full certification provided after installation.
  • Support for grants to reduce your costs.

From the first consultation to ongoing support, we’re here to make your transition to electric driving seamless.

Conclusion

A home EV charger transforms the way you use your vehicle, giving you convenience, savings, and confidence that your property is ready for the future. But correct installation is vital—both for safety and compliance.

At First Call Electrical Services, we provide expert installation for both homeowners and landlords, ensuring you get a safe, certified, and future-proof solution.

To arrange your EV charger installation, email paul@firstcallelectricalservices.com or call 07904692572. You can also explore our services on th  main site, find tailored information for homeowners and landlords, or send us an enquiry via our contact us page.