EV Charging
We get enquiries from guests every day and more and more people are looking for properties with a private electric vehicle charger (EV Charging). If this is something you can offer at your property, it’s worth the investment. Anything that makes a holiday easier for your guests is a big plus, and being able to get up and go with their car fully charged and waiting is a selling point.
There are a couple of things to consider, so have a read through our FAQs below and always consult a specialist!
Why should I get an EV charger?
When looking for a holiday home, a lot of guests want to have their home comforts available. If you own an electric car, a chargepoint is non-negotiable. Being able to charge their car while at your property saves time and is one less thing to arrange. If you have off-road parking it is an easy process to have a charger added and it is a great benefit to customers.
Can’t guests just charge their car from my domestic supply?
In theory, yes, but it gets a bit more complicated. Charging from your domestic supply is incredibly slow, and there’s no way for you to manage use. It could mean having a cable plugged in through an open window causing a trip hazard and there are more safety risks than when a chargepoint is used. Many insurance companies will also not cover you for any damages if guests use your domestic sockets for EV charging.
Do I have sufficient electrical capacity?
Most houses have a single-phase power supply which can support a 7.4kW charger. Using an electric vehicle charging unit, instead of just using a normal three-pin plug can reduce charging time by a third and it is much more convenient for yourself and guests.
What is a smart EV charger?
A smart EV charger optimises the charging process based on time of day, electricity prices and the car’s battery level. WiFi signal or mobile data is required, and some smart chargers need you to download an app. Some providers offer a ‘holiday home’ option which means guests will pay for the energy they use, rather than you having to cover the costs yourself.
How do guests pay for EV charging?
You can offer free charging for guests, but if you don’t want to increase your electricity bill it is easy to set up a smart charger so that guests must pay for use. There are a number of different options available which work via an app. Guests must then sign up and enter their payment details before they are able to charge up. Speak to your installer to discuss the best options for you.
What grants are available?
An EV chargepoint grant is available for landlords. Visit the Gov.uk website for more information and to check if you qualify.
What’s the first step in getting an EV charger installed?
Your first point of call is to find an approved installer, this link will help with that.
Find an electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint installer – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
They will be able to advise you on which charger will work best for you and what your options are. It’s also worth checking your house insurance and any fire risk assessment details to see if an EV charger will have an effect on these.
