How To Get an Electric Vehicle Charge Point Installed at Home
Thinking about charging your EV from the comfort of your own driveway? You're not alone. As electric vehicles become more popular across the UK, home EV charger installations are growing and for good reason.
Home EV charging is not only convenient and cost-effective, it’s also the most efficient way to keep your car road-ready every day. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to install an EV charge point at home, including costs, cable compatibility, and government grants.
Why Install an EV Charge Point at Home?
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Faster charging than a standard 3-pin socket
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Plug in overnight and wake up to a full battery
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Access cheaper energy tariffs with scheduled smart charging
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Increase your property’s value with future-ready tech
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Avoid queueing at public chargers during busy times
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Home EV Charger
1. Check If You're Eligible
To install a home EV charge point, you’ll need:
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Off-street parking (e.g., driveway or garage)
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A Wi-Fi connection for smart charger features
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Permission from your landlord if you rent the property.
2. Choose Your Charging Cable Type
Most EV drivers in the UK will need either a:
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Type 1 charging cable (5-pin, single phase – less common in Europe)
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Type 2 charging cable (7-pin, single or 3-phase – standard in the UK and Europe)
Pro tip: Not sure which is right for your vehicle? Use EVwired’s easy cable selector tool to find your match.
3. Choose a Home Charger Unit
There are two main types:
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Tethered: Comes with a fixed cable - quick and convenient
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Untethered: Requires you to plug in your own Type 1 or Type 2 cable - more flexible
Most modern chargers are “smart”, meaning you can control them via an app, schedule charging times for cheaper energy rates, and track your electricity usage.
4. Hire an OZEV-Approved Installer
Always use an OZEV-authorised installer to ensure compliance and potentially claim the government grant. Prices for home charger installation typically range from £800 to £1,200, depending on your location and setup.
Use the official GOV.UK installer list to find trusted installers in your area.
Can I Get a Government Grant?
Yes, depending on your property type, you may be eligible for the EV Chargepoint Grant (formerly the OLEV Grant). It provides:
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Up to £350 off the cost of home charger installation
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Available to flat owners, renters, and landlords
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One grant per person per eligible vehicle
Note: This scheme is no longer available to homeowners living in single-unit properties (like detached or semi-detached houses), but you can still apply if you live in a flat or rental.
Learn more in our blog on Home and Workplace EV Charging Grants.
How Long Does It Take To Install a Home EV Charger?
Most installations take around 2-4 hours, depending on the layout of your home and the location of your electricity supply.
Before your installation, the technician may conduct a quick survey (virtually or in person) to check for:
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Cable routing from your fuse box
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Wi-Fi signal strength
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The best location for the charger
Charge Smarter at Home
Installing a home EV charge point is one of the best decisions you can make as an electric vehicle owner. It's safer, faster, and more economical than relying on public charging.
