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Electric Car Charging Points for Rental Properties

 

The procedure for installing an electric car (EV) charger at a rental property requires

written permission from the landlord and using a qualified, government-approved installer. There is no legal requirement for landlords to install a charger themselves, but they can't unreasonably refuse a tenant's request. 

Steps for the Tenant

1. Review the Tenancy Agreement: Check the existing agreement for clauses regarding modifications or electrical alterations. Written consent is almost always required.
2. Research and Plan:
   • Ensure the property has dedicated off-street parking (a driveway or garage) where a cable won't cross public land, which is illegal.
   • Choose an OZEV-approved (Office for Zero Emission Vehicles) charger model and find a certified installer.
   • Get a formal, detailed quote from the installer, including costs, the installation plan, and safety features.

• Propose to the Landlord: Present the plan in writing. Highlighting that the charger adds value to the property and offering to cover the costs can increase the likelihood of approval.

• Obtain Written Consent: Crucially, get the landlord's permission in writing beforeany work begins. This is a legal requirement and necessary for grant eligibility.

• Apply for a Grant (if eligible): Private renters and flat owners with dedicated off-street parking can apply for the government's EV Chargepoint Grant, which covers up to 75% of the cost (capped at £350). The installer typically handles the grant application process.

• Installation and Documentation: The OZEV-approved installer will perform the work and issue an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC). A copy of this, along with proof of notification to the Distribution Network Operator (DNO), must be provided to the landlord and kept for records.

• Agree on End-of-Tenancy Terms: Clarify in writing whether the charger will remain a fixture of the property or if the tenant will remove it and restore the property to its original condition when the tenancy ends. 

Landlord's Considerations

• Grants: Landlords can also apply for grants (the EV Chargepoint Grant or the Infrastructure Grant for multiple homes) to help cover installation costs, which can make the property more attractive to future tenants.
• Safety: The installation must be performed by a qualified professional to comply with safety standards (BS7671) and building regulations.
• Ongoing Management: The landlord should ensure the tenancy agreement is updated to reflect the new installation, outlining responsibility for maintenance and insurance implications.
• Refusal: While landlords can refuse permission, they should provide valid reasons (e.g., lack of off-street parking, listed building status, electrical capacity issues) in writing. 

Free Survey

Due to the complexities of ev charging product ranges, we offer a free of Charge Survey to understand your requirements, and what the Power provided to your property is capable of along with the existing Loads, to ensure that you have perfect EV charging. In this survey we check your ev chargepoint requirements, along iwth an ev charging point risk assessment to ensure that your ev charge point request meets your criteria, and our new vehicle.

For further Information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thanks for reading! We hope this article was of use to you. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to let us know.

To book a very helpfull & knowledgeable Bright Spark Electrician to carry out a Survey, and provide a Free of Charge Quotation, fill out our simple form to visit your home. click [Click this Link]

For further Information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Telephone: 01892 531728

Email: karen@brightsparkelectrician.co.uk