Do I need off-street parking to install an EV charger at home?

Off-street parking makes installation simpler and safer. If you do not have it, you may still have options, but it depends on your property layout and permissions.

What do I need first before installing an EV charger at home?

You will need a check of your electrical supply, a suitable location for the charger, and a decision on the charger type and features that match your driving habits.

Will my consumer unit need upgrading for a home EV charger?

Not always, but some homes need updates to meet current safety requirements. An installer will assess your consumer unit and advise if any upgrades are needed.

What charger power level is best for home charging?

Many homes use a 7kW charger where suitable. The best power level depends on your home supply, your car, and how quickly you want to recharge.

Can I install an EV charger at home if I rent?

Yes, potentially, but you will usually need landlord permission. A professional installer can help you understand what is involved and what information to provide.

Can I install an EV charger at home if I live in a flat?

It may be possible, but flats often require approval from the freeholder or management company and careful planning for cabling and parking arrangements.

Do I need planning permission to install an EV charger at home?

Most home installations do not need planning permission, but there can be exceptions. Your installer can advise if your property has any special restrictions.

How long does a home EV charger installation take?

Many installations are completed in a single visit, depending on cabling distance and whether any electrical upgrades are required.

Why should I use a qualified installer instead of doing it myself?

A qualified installer ensures the charger is fitted safely, complies with electrical standards, and is properly tested and certified for peace of mind.

Can I Install an EV Charger at Home, and What Do I Need?

Q: Can I install an EV charger at home?

In most cases, yes. If you have a suitable electrical supply and a safe place to mount the charger, a qualified installer can usually fit one at your home.

Lyons Electrical
Jan 6
3 min read

The good news is that in most UK homes the answer is yes you can install a EV charger. A home charger is one of the easiest upgrades you can make for day-to-day convenience. Instead of relying on public charging, you plug in at home and wake up to a full battery. The key is getting the basics checked first so the installation is safe, compliant, and sized properly for your car and your household electrics.

EV charger installed on a home driveway wall with tidy cabling

Can I install an EV charger at home if I have off-street parking?

In most cases, yes. The biggest practical requirement is a safe place to mount the charger and run cabling, typically a driveway or garage. If you have off-street parking, you’re already in a strong position. If your parking is tight or the car sits a bit further from the house, that’s usually still workable, it just means planning cable routes carefully and choosing the right unit and lead length.

What if I live in a flat or rent my home?

You may still be able to install a charger, but it depends on permissions. Flats often need approval from the freeholder or management company, and rentals typically need landlord consent. A professional installer can advise on what’s realistic and help you understand the best approach for your property.

Electric car charging at home using a smart wall charger at night

What do I need first before I install an EV charger at home?

Before you commit, it helps to think about three essentials: your electrical supply, where the charger will go, and how you want to use it.

Your electrical supply and consumer unit

Your home’s supply needs to handle the charger alongside normal household demand. Many homes are perfectly fine, but some need a small upgrade, such as consumer unit improvements or protective devices to meet current standards. We always check your existing setup, because it’s not just about making it work, it’s about making it safe and reliable long-term.

Choosing the right charger and power level

Most home installs use a smart charger, commonly set up around 7kW where suitable. The right option depends on your car, how quickly you want to charge, and whether you want smart features like scheduled charging for cheaper overnight tariffs. A good installer like Lyons Electrical will talk this through in plain English and recommend a charger that fits your routine, not just the spec sheet.

Location, cabling, and a neat finish

Charger placement matters more than most people expect. It affects convenience, cable length, and how tidy the installation looks. We look for a sensible mounting point, safe cable routing, and a setup that feels like it belongs on your home, not an afterthought.

Home charging setup showing EV charger position and cable route

Do I need permission or a certificate?

For most homes, you won’t need planning permission. However, the installation must comply with UK electrical safety requirements, and it should be notified and certified correctly. Using a qualified EV charger installer means you get the right paperwork and peace of mind that everything has been installed to standard.

Ready to find out if you can install an EV charger at home?

If you’re ready to stop guessing and get a clear answer to can I install an EV charger at home, we can help. We’ll ask a few quick questions, check your electrics, recommend the best charger for your car and your home, and give you a straightforward quote with no pushy sales chat.

Get in touch today to request a quote or book an installation appointment, and we’ll make home charging simple.