Can I Install My Own EV Charger?
Short answer: no — not legally, and not without serious consequences. Here's exactly why DIY EV charger installation isn't allowed in the UK, what it actually costs to do properly, and how to qualify for the £350 government grant.
Why DIY EV install is a no-go
- Notifiable under Part P — must be done by a Competent Person
- Won't pass an EICR — will be coded C1 or C2
- Voids most home insurance policies
- Disqualifies you from the £350 OZEV / EVCG grant
- Many DNOs require formal notification before energising
- No commissioning certificate = no warranty from charger manufacturer
Real cost to install an EV charger
| Install type | Typical cost | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| Standard home 7kW | £900–£1,200 plus VAT | Charger, cable run up to 10m, isolator, certification, DNO notification |
| Complex home install | £1,200–£1,800 plus VAT | Long cable runs, board upgrades, earth rod, surge protection |
| Commercial 7kW (single) | £1,200–£2,000 plus VAT | Workplace install, signage, RCBO, MID-certified meter |
| Commercial 22kW posts | £3,500–£15,000 plus VAT | Three-phase, payment system, back-office software, civils |
£350 OZEV / EV Chargepoint Grant
Available to flat owner-occupiers, renters in single-unit properties, and landlords (up to 200 sockets per year). We're an OZEV-authorised installer and handle the entire grant claim — you just provide your V5 / lease and ID.
Free EV charger quote
Fixed price, OZEV-grant-handled, certificate on completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install my own EV charger at home in the UK?
Legally, no — not on your own. EV charger installation is notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations and must be carried out by a qualified electrician registered with a Competent Person Scheme such as CHAS. Self-installed chargers will not pass an EICR, will not qualify for the OZEV / EVCG grant, can void your home insurance, and may breach your DNO (network operator) connection rules.
How much does it cost to install an EV charger at home?
A standard 7kW home EV charger installation in Devon typically costs £900 to £1,400 plus VAT, depending on the cable run from the consumer unit, mounting position, earthing arrangement and whether load-balancing or DNO notification is required. We give a fixed price after a quick site survey or photos.
How much does commercial EV charger installation cost?
Commercial EV charger installation cost varies hugely with site infrastructure. A single 7kW unit at a small office may be £1,200–£2,000 plus VAT. Multiple 22kW posts with back-office software, payment systems and DNO upgrades commonly run £4,000–£15,000+ per bay. We design and quote commercial installations across the South West.
What's the OZEV / EV chargepoint grant for installation?
The EV Chargepoint Grant gives £350 off the cost to install a home EV charger for eligible flat owner-occupiers and renters. Landlords can claim up to £350 per socket (200 sockets per year). The installer must be OZEV-authorised — we are.
Can I install an EV charger on my own driveway without permission?
On your own driveway, generally yes — no planning permission needed if the unit is under 0.2 m³, not facing a highway and on a property over 2m from the road. Cable runs across pavements always need council permission. A registered installer will check this for you.