As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on UK roads continues to rise, more and more homeowners are considering EV charger installation at home. Having a dedicated charging point offers convenience, efficiency, and cost savings compared to relying solely on public charging stations.
In this guide, our EV charging experts explain everything you need to know about installing an EV charger, the different types available, costs, grants, planning permission, and why using a qualified electrician is essential for safe and compliant installation.
Why Install an EV Charger at Home?
There are now more than 1.5 million fully electric vehicles in the UK, with sales expected to grow even further following the government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG), which offers up to £3,750 off the price of eligible cars from July 2025.
Installing a dedicated home EV charger offers several benefits:
- Convenience – Charge your vehicle overnight at home.
- Cost savings – Home charging is typically cheaper than public charging, especially with off-peak tariffs.
- Speed – Faster charging than using a standard 3-pin plug.
- Future-proofing – With EV adoption accelerating, a charger can add value to your property.
Types of EV Chargers
There are two main categories of electric vehicle charging points in the UK:
1. Home EV Chargers
These compact, waterproof units are usually installed on an exterior wall or in a garage. They can be:
- Tethered – with a built-in cable.
- Untethered – with a socket, allowing you to use your own charging lead.
2. Public EV Charging Points
There are now over 80,000 public EV chargers in the UK, which fall into three categories:
- En-route charging – Located at motorway service stations and petrol station hubs.
- Destination charging – Found at supermarkets, retail parks, and leisure sites.
- On-street charging – Installed in residential areas for households without private driveways.
EV Charger Installation Cost
The cost of installing an EV charger varies depending on:
- Charger type and speed (7kW, 22kW, rapid 50kW+, ultra-rapid 350kW).
- The complexity of your property’s electrical setup.
- Electrician’s labour charges.
On average, a standard home EV charger installation in the UK costs £800–£1,200 (before any grant reductions).
The cost of charging your EV depends on:
- Where you charge – Home is usually cheaper than public points.
- Electricity tariff – Off-peak tariffs reduce costs significantly.
- Battery size – Larger batteries cost more to charge.
- Charger speed – Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers are usually more expensive to use.
Government Grants for EV Chargers
To encourage EV adoption, the UK government offers OZEV (Office for Zero Emission Vehicles) grants:
1. Flat Owners & Renters
- Up to £350 or 75% off installation (whichever is lower).
- Must have dedicated off-street parking and use an OZEV-approved installer.
2. On-Street Parking
- Available for households without driveways.
- Covers £350 or 75% of installation costs for cross-pavement charging solutions.
- Requires local authority approval.
There are also grants for businesses, landlords, and schools. Full details are available on the UK government website.
Requirements for EV Charger Installation
For safety and compliance, your EV charger installation must meet:
- BS 7671 – The UK Wiring Regulations standard.
- Competent installation – Use a registered electrician (e.g., NICEIC-approved).
NICEIC electricians are assessed regularly to ensure the highest safety and quality standards.
Planning Permission for EV Chargers
In most cases, planning permission is not required as chargers fall under permitted development rights. Exceptions include:
- Listed buildings.
- Conservation areas.
- Cross-pavement solutions.
⚡ Installations must also be notified to Building Control (48 hours in advance), unless carried out by a Competent Person Scheme-registered electrician, who can self-certify the work.
Choosing the Right EV Charger
When selecting an electric vehicle charging point, consider:
- Charging speed:
- Home chargers – around 7kW (ideal for overnight charging).
- Destination chargers – 7–22kW.
- Rapid chargers – 50–350kW for quick top-ups.
- Connector type – Ensure compatibility with your vehicle (e.g., Type 2, CCS).
- Tethered vs untethered:
- Tethered – Convenient with built-in cable.
- Untethered – More flexible if you use multiple charging points.
Do You Need a Professional to Install an EV Charger?
Yes. A qualified electrician is essential for safe installation. Attempting DIY installation is not only unsafe but may invalidate your warranty or insurance.
Hiring a certified electrician ensures:
- Compliance with UK electrical regulations.
- Safety testing and certification.
- Peace of mind that your charger is installed correctly.
EV Charger Installation FAQs
How long does it take to install a charger?
Usually between 2–5 hours, depending on the property.
Can I install an EV charger myself?
No – installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician.
How much does it cost to charge an EV at home?
On average, £12–£18 for a full charge, depending on your tariff and battery size.
Will installing a charger add value to my home?
Yes – with EV adoption growing, properties with dedicated charging points are more attractive to buyers.
With EV ownership rising rapidly, installing a home EV charger in the UK has never been more important. From cost savings and convenience to government grants and future-proofing your property, the benefits are clear.
For a safe, compliant, and professional installation, always hire a NICEIC-registered electrician. They will guide you through the process, from choosing the right charger to handling permissions and ensuring your installation meets all UK regulations.
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