EV Charger Installation: Cost, Requirements & How to Get Quotes

Electric vehicle ownership in the UK has grown rapidly, and home charging is now the most convenient and cost-effective way to keep your EV topped up. But installing a home EV charger is not as simple as plugging in a socket - it requires a dedicated circuit, an upgraded consumer unit in many cases, and installation by a qualified electrician registered under an OZEV-approved scheme.

How much does EV charger installation cost?

• Charger unit only: £400-£900 (7kW tethered charger)
• Installation labour: £300-£800 (depending on complexity)
• Total installed cost: £700-£1,700
• Fast chargers (22kW three-phase): £1,200-£2,500 installed
• Consumer unit upgrade (if needed): add £400-£800
• Earthing system upgrades (older TT properties): add £150-£300

What electrical capacity do you need?

Most home EV chargers are 7kW (32A single-phase). This will fully charge a typical EV (60kWh battery) in 8-10 hours overnight - perfect for home use. Your home's electrical supply must be able to support the additional load. Most modern UK homes have a 100A single-phase supply, which is more than enough. However, older properties with 60A or 80A supplies may need an upgrade from your Distribution Network Operator (DNO).

Three-phase chargers (22kW) are faster but require a three-phase electrical supply. Most UK domestic properties only have single-phase. Your installer will check your incoming supply and consumer unit capacity before quoting. If you photograph your consumer unit and supply meter, many installers can tell you immediately whether upgrades are needed.

What qualifications does your installer need?

• Registered with NICEIC, NAPIT, or another competent person scheme
• OZEV-approved installer (required to claim any available grants)
• EV charger manufacturer trained (most manufacturers require certification)
• 18th Edition qualified (BS 7671 current wiring regulations)

After installation, you should receive an Electrical Installation Certificate (proving compliance with Part P), OZEV installation declaration (if claiming a grant), and manufacturer warranty registration. Never use an unqualified electrician for EV charger installation - you will not be able to claim grants, your home insurance may be invalidated, and the charger may not be safe.

Are EV charger grants still available in 2026?

The OZEV EV Chargepoint Grant was closed to most homeowners in April 2022. However, grants are still available for flat and apartment residents (up to £350 per installation), rental properties (landlords can claim up to £350 per charger for tenant use), and disabled drivers (up to £350 under the OZEV grant scheme). Check the OZEV website or ask your installer for the latest eligibility.

What type of EV charger should you choose?

• Tethered charger (fixed cable) - convenient, just plug in. Cable length is fixed (usually 5-7 metres).
• Untethered charger (socket only) - works with any EV, neater appearance, but you need your own cable.
• Smart charger (app-controlled) - schedule charging, monitor usage, integrate with solar. Required by law for all new UK installations since 2022.

How long does installation take?

A standard 7kW home EV charger installation takes 3-5 hours if no upgrades are needed. The process includes: survey and cable run from consumer unit to charger location; new RCBO installed in consumer unit; charger mounted to wall near parking space; testing, commissioning and app setup; and issue of Electrical Installation Certificate. If a consumer unit upgrade is needed, add another 2-4 hours.

How SpecConnect speeds up finding an EV charger installer

You photograph your consumer unit and electrical meter. The app identifies your supply type, capacity, and consumer unit specification. That information is shared with OZEV-approved installers covering your area. They can see exactly what installation they are quoting on before they respond - no guesswork, no wasted preliminary visits. Most SpecConnect users receive competitive EV charger quotes within a few hours.