We understand that as electric vehicles become more popular, the demand for electric vehicle (EV) chargers is increasing.
It is important to obtain the correct permissions before installing an EV charger. Where the appropriate permissions have not been granted, you may be required to remove the charger.
Permission must be obtained from:
- UK Power Networks
- Your energy provider
- Hastoe
We are here to support you throughout the process. Please read this guide carefully and follow the steps outlined.
Arranging a survey
The first step is to review the logistics of installing an EV charger. You should arrange a site visit with a qualified, accredited electrician who can install an EV charger. When selecting an electrician or company, consider the following:
- Accreditation and qualifications – Ensure the installer is a qualified electrician registered with a recognised certification body such as NICEIC or NAPIT.
- EV-specific training – The contractor should have specific training in EV charger installation.
- Reputation and reviews – Check reviews, particularly those related to EV charger installations, on platforms such as Checkatrade.
Selecting an installer
Once your survey has been completed by an accredited electrician, there are key questions to ask any potential installer:
- Are you Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) approved? OZEV-approved means the installer is government-authorised to safely fit EV chargers and meet required standards.
- Will my consumer unit need upgrading?
- Will you notify the Distribution Network Operator (DNO)?
- Will I receive all necessary safety certificates?
- What warranty and aftercare do you provide?
- Where is the best location for the charger?
- Will the installation involve complex work (e.g. underground cabling)?
- Will there be any disruption to neighbours?
Things to watch out for include installers who do not offer a site survey, provide unusually low quotes, or fail to confirm that they will notify the Distribution Network Operator (DNO).
Obtaining authorisation
Due to constraints on the electricity distribution grid, before Hastoe can consider your request, you must obtain permission from third parties. This can be arranged by your contractor on your behalf.
We must be certain that installing an EV charger will not place undue pressure on the grid or impact neighbouring properties.
You must obtain written permission from:
- UK Power Networks
Contact: 0800 029 4280
Email: Myconnection@ukpowernetworks.co.uk - Your energy provider
Once granted, permission is valid for 12 months.
You must also provide written confirmation from a certified/licensed electrician confirming that installation is safe and appropriate, along with a scope of works.
Submitting a request to Hastoe
Once you have completed these steps, you can submit an application to Hastoe.
An administration fee of £90 is payable upon application. This will be confirmed by your case handler.
You will need to provide:
- Location of the EV charger
- Make and model of the charger, including kW rating
- Details of any required works (e.g. cabling, consumer unit upgrades)
- Full installation details
- Whether you intend to apply for any grants
- Site survey from your installer
- Permission from UK Power Networks
- Permission from your energy provider
You must also confirm that your installer has the appropriate accreditations, qualifications, and liability insurance.
Review of application
Hastoe will review your application within 28 days.
If approved, you will be required to sign a legal agreement outlining the following:
- You are responsible for the actions of your installer, including any damage caused to your property or neighbouring properties.
- Any disruption to electricity supply must be addressed directly with your energy provider or UK Power Networks.
- Any negligence will be covered by the installer’s insurance or your own insurance.
- You must not rewire or alter the electrical systems beyond the agreed installation.
- Hastoe is not responsible for repairing or replacing the EV charger.
- The EV charger should remain in place if you sell the property, to avoid damage.
- Any additional works outside the approved scope will require further permission.
- Chargers must not be installed in communal areas — only within demised driveways or garages.
- Installation must not create any health and safety risks.
- Permission may be withdrawn at any time.
If your application is refused, we will explain the reasons and outline next steps.