Renting doesn't have to mean giving up on home EV charging. Here's how to navigate installing a charger when you don't own your home.
Can You Install a Charger as a Renter?
Short answer: Yes, with your landlord's permission.
Legal position:
The Tenant's Right to Request
What the Law Says
Under the Tenants' Energy Efficiency Improvements Regulations:
However: This isn't an absolute right to install. Landlords can refuse for legitimate reasons.
Building Your Case
Arguments for installation:
| Argument | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Government grant covers 75% | Minimal cost to landlord |
| Increases property value | Adds a desirable feature |
| Growing tenant demand | Future-proofs the property |
| No structural damage | Straightforward installation |
| You'll pay running costs | No ongoing expense for landlord |
Government Grant for Renters
EV Chargepoint Grant (Renters)
What's available:
Eligibility:
How to Apply
Your typical cost: £600–900 after grant (for standard installation)
Approaching Your Landlord
Before You Ask
Prepare:
The Conversation
Opening:
> "I'm considering getting an electric vehicle and would like to discuss the possibility of installing a charging point. There's a government grant that covers most of the cost, and it would add value to the property."
Key points to cover:
What to Propose
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Option A: You fund, you keep | You pay (after grant), charger is removed when you leave |
| Option B: You fund, landlord keeps | You pay, charger stays as property improvement |
| Option C: Shared funding | Split the cost, charger stays |
| Option D: Landlord funds | Landlord pays (with grant), takes landlord grant |
Most common: Option B — tenant funds installation, charger becomes part of property.
Landlord Grants
EV Chargepoint Grant (Landlords)
What's available:
Landlord eligibility:
Why Landlords Might Self-Fund
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Property value increase | EVs are growing; charging adds appeal |
| Attract better tenants | EV drivers tend to be higher earners |
| Future-proofing | Will be expected in coming years |
| Grant covers most cost | Only ~£300–500 out of pocket |
| Tax deductible | Can offset against rental income |
Handling Objections
"I don't want modifications to my property"
Response: "The installation is minimal — just a wall-mounted unit with a cable run. It's no more intrusive than a satellite dish or outside light, and it adds value to the property."
"What if something goes wrong?"
Response: "The charger has a manufacturer's warranty, and installation is done by certified professionals to Building Regulations standards. It's safer than many electrical appliances already in the property."
"What happens when you leave?"
Options:
"I'm worried about insurance"
Response: "Standard home insurance covers EV chargers — I can confirm this with my contents insurance, and you can check your buildings insurance. Most insurers don't require notification for a home charger."
"It's too expensive"
Response: "The government grant covers up to £350, which is 75% of most standard installations. Your actual cost could be as low as £200–400, and it increases your property's value by more than that."
Getting It in Writing
What to Include
If your landlord agrees, get a written agreement covering:
Sample Clauses
Permission clause:
> "The Landlord grants permission for the Tenant to install an electric vehicle charging point at the Property, subject to the following conditions..."
Retention clause (charger stays):
> "The charging point shall become a fixture of the Property upon installation and shall remain when the tenancy ends, with no compensation payable to either party."
Removal clause (charger goes):
> "The Tenant shall remove the charging point at the end of the tenancy and make good any damage to the Landlord's reasonable satisfaction."
If Your Landlord Says No
Alternatives
On-street charging:
Workplace charging:
Public charging:
Portable charger:
Can You Force the Issue?
Legally: No. Landlords can refuse reasonable requests, and there's no absolute right to install an EV charger.
Practically: Consider:
When Renting with EV Charging in Mind
Questions for Future Rentals
Before signing:
Properties with EV Chargers
Growing trend:
Where to search:
Social Housing and Housing Associations
Council Tenants
Process:
Good news: Many local authorities have EV charging programmes and may install chargers at their cost.
Housing Association Tenants
Process:
Good news: Housing associations are increasingly installing communal chargers in their properties.
Summary
| Situation | Best Approach |
|---|---|
| Private rental, cooperative landlord | Request installation, use renter grant |
| Private rental, reluctant landlord | Build case with grant info, negotiate terms |
| Private rental, refuses | Use alternatives, factor into next tenancy |
| Council/housing association | Ask about their EV charging programme |
| Looking for new rental | Prioritise properties with charging or open landlords |
Key Takeaways
The renting landscape for EV charging is improving. As EV ownership grows, more landlords recognise the value of offering charging facilities. If your current landlord won't budge, you'll increasingly find properties that cater to EV drivers.