The short answer
Choose an installer who is OZEV-approved, registered with a competent person scheme (NICEIC, NAPIT or similar), provides a written supply-and-fit quote, and issues an Electrical Installation Certificate on completion. Get at least three quotes. See the cost guide and grant guide to understand what you should be paying.
The home EV charger installation market has grown rapidly, and like any fast-expanding trade, it contains reputable professionals and less scrupulous operators. Choosing the right installer protects both your investment and your home’s electrical safety. This guide gives a clear checklist based on the published requirements from OZEV, the IET and building regulations — so you know what to look for and what to avoid.
Installer checklist at a glance
- OZEV approval Required to apply the £350 grant — check the OZEV list
- Competent person scheme NICEIC, NAPIT, SELECT or ELECSA registered
- Written quote Should itemise unit, materials, labour and grant deduction
- Electrical Installation Certificate Issued on completion — keep it permanently
- At least 3 quotes Always compare price and what is included
- Red flag Verbal-only quotes, pressure to sign same day, no EIC offered
OZEV approval: the starting point
The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles maintains a list of approved EV charge point installers at GOV.UK. Only installers on this list can apply the £350 Chargepoint Grant on your behalf. OZEV approval also means the company has undergone vetting for electrical competency, insurance and compliance. Start your search with the OZEV approved installer search tool rather than a general internet search, and confirm any installer you approach is on the current list before requesting a quote.
Competent person scheme registration
Separately from OZEV approval, the electrician carrying out the work must be registered with a government-authorised competent person scheme for electrical work — NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA, or SELECT in Scotland. This is what allows them to self-certify the installation under Building Regulations Part P without needing separate building control inspection. Ask each installer which scheme they are registered with, and you can verify their registration on the scheme’s website. See why qualified installation is legally required for the background on Part P.
| What to check | How to verify |
|---|---|
| OZEV approval | GOV.UK approved installer search |
| Competent person scheme | NICEIC / NAPIT / SELECT online registration check |
| Public liability insurance | Ask for certificate |
| EV charge point experience | Ask how many installations they complete per month |
| Warranty (unit + install) | Confirm period and what is covered in writing |
Questions to ask before committing
Before booking, ask each installer:
- Are you on the OZEV approved installer list?
- Which competent person scheme are you registered with?
- Is the quote supply-and-fit, including all materials and the dedicated circuit?
- Will you issue an Electrical Installation Certificate on completion?
- What happens if the charge point develops a fault within warranty?
- Do I need any additional work (consumer unit upgrade, cable burial) and is that included in the quote?
Red flags to watch for
Be cautious of any installer who: gives only a verbal quote and pushes you to sign immediately; cannot provide their OZEV or competent person scheme registration number when asked; quotes unusually far below the market range without a clear explanation of what is excluded; does not mention issuing an Electrical Installation Certificate; or subcontracts the electrical work to someone else without clear accountability. The £350 OZEV grant makes EV installation attractive to the market, and most installers are professional — but knowing these markers helps you spot the exceptions. For typical prices, see installation costs. This page is general guidance on choosing an installer; always verify any installer’s credentials directly with the relevant scheme before booking.
Get quotes from OZEV-approved installers
Compare at least three quotes from vetted OZEV-approved installers. Free to enquire, no obligation, and the £350 grant is applied at point of sale.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find an OZEV-approved EV charger installer?
Use the approved installer search tool at GOV.UK — search for OZEV Chargepoint Grant and use the installer finder. Only installers on this list can apply the £350 grant on your behalf.
What is a competent person scheme and why does it matter?
A competent person scheme (NICEIC, NAPIT etc.) allows registered electricians to self-certify notifiable electrical work under Building Regulations Part P. Without scheme registration, the installer must use building control instead — adding time and cost.
What certificate should I receive after installation?
An Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) under BS 7671. This is the legal record that the work complies with the wiring regulations. Keep it permanently — you’ll need it when selling the property.
Should I get a site survey before committing?
Yes — a reputable installer will assess your consumer unit, proposed cable route and parking space before giving a final price. Avoid committing to a price given without a site visit or remote photos.
Sources & further reading
- OZEV (Office for Zero Emission Vehicles) — Approved installer scheme, finder tool and installation requirements
- GOV.UK — Building Regulations Part P, competent person schemes and EV chargepoint grant
- IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) — Electrical installation certification requirements
- Energy Saving Trust — EV charger installer selection guidance for UK homeowners
This is general information about home EV charging in the UK, not electrical, planning or installation advice for your specific property. Costs, timescales and specifications vary with your home’s supply, parking arrangement and chosen installer. Always obtain written quotes from OZEV-approved installers and check grant eligibility at GOV.UK before committing.