OZEV Approved Installers: Complete UK Directory & Selection Guide 2025

OZEV Approved Installers: Complete UK Directory & Selection Guide 2025

Selecting the right OZEV-approved installer is crucial for securing your £350 grant, ensuring safe installation, and avoiding costly mistakes. With over 400 approved installers across the UK, choosing the best fit for your property and needs requires careful evaluation of credentials, experience, pricing, and service quality.

This comprehensive guide explains OZEV approval requirements, how to find certified installers in your region, essential selection criteria, verification processes, typical costs, and warning signs of rogue traders. Whether you're in urban London, rural Scotland, or anywhere across the UK, you'll learn how to identify trustworthy installers and make informed decisions for your home EV charging installation.

Understanding OZEV Approval and MCS Certification

OZEV (Office for Zero Emission Vehicles) approval is mandatory for installers to offer the government's £350 EV chargepoint grant. This approval ensures installers meet rigorous standards for safety, quality, and customer service.

What OZEV Approval Requires:

1. MCS Certification (Microgeneration Certification Scheme):

   • Industry-standard certification for renewable energy and EV charging installers
   • Annual audits of installation quality and business practices
   • Customer complaint resolution procedures
   • Technical competence verification
   • Insurance requirements (minimum £2 million public liability)

2. Qualified Personnel:

   • Electricians with 18th Edition BS 7671 qualifications
   • EV charging installation-specific training
   • Continuing professional development (CPD) requirements
   • Health and safety certifications

3. Installation Standards:

   • BS 7671 electrical regulations compliance
   • Building Regulations Part P adherence
   • DNO (Distribution Network Operator) notification processes
   • Electrical Installation Certificates (EIC) issuance

4. Equipment Requirements:

   • OZEV-approved charger models only
   • Smart charging capability (OCPP protocol)
   • UK safety certifications (UKCA/CE marking)
   • Minimum 3-year warranty provision

5. Business Standards:

   • Trading Standards compliance
   • Clear pricing and quotation practices
   • Customer service standards
   • Dispute resolution procedures

Why OZEV Approval Matters:

• Grant Eligibility: Only OZEV-approved installers can claim the £350 grant on your behalf
• Quality Assurance: Regular audits ensure consistent installation standards
• Consumer Protection: Complaint procedures and insurance coverage protect you
• Legal Compliance: Guaranteed adherence to UK electrical regulations
• Equipment Quality: Access to approved, warranted charger models

How to Find OZEV Approved Installers

Official OZEV Installer Directory

The primary source for finding approved installers is the official government directory:

Accessing the Directory:

1. Visit: gov.uk/government/organisations/office-for-zero-emission-vehicles
2. Navigate to "EV Chargepoint Grant" section
3. Access "Find an Installer" tool
4. Enter your postcode for local results

Directory Information Provided:

• Installer company name and registration number
• Contact details (phone, email, website)
• Geographic coverage areas
• Approved charger brands offered
• MCS certificate number
• Registration date

Limitations of Official Directory:

• Basic information only (no reviews or ratings)
• Coverage areas may be approximate
• No pricing information
• Limited filtering options
• Some listings may be outdated

Alternative Search Methods

1. MCS Installer Database:

• Website: mcscertified.com
• Benefits: More detailed installer profiles, additional certifications listed
• Search: By postcode, company name, or certification type

2. Charger Manufacturer Installer Networks:

Major charger brands maintain approved installer networks:

• Wallbox Approved Installers: wallbox.com/en_uk/installer-network
• Ohme Installer Partners: ohme-ev.com/find-installer
• Zappi/MyEnergi Installers: myenergi.com/find-an-installer
• Pod Point Installation Service: pod-point.com/products/installation
• Hypervolt Partner Network: hypervolt.co.uk/find-installer

Benefits: Manufacturer training, brand-specific expertise, equipment familiarity

3. Comparison Websites:

• EV Installation Quote: evinstallationquote.co.uk
• EV Charger Installation UK: evchargerinstallation.uk
• GreenMatch: greenmatch.co.uk/ev-charging

Benefits: Multiple quotes, reviews, coverage across regions Caution: Verify OZEV approval independently

4. Local Authority EV Schemes:

Some councils maintain lists of local approved installers:

• Scotland: Energy Saving Trust Scotland
• Wales: Welsh Government EV scheme
• Northern Ireland: NI Energy Advice
• London: London EV Infrastructure Taskforce

Regional Coverage Analysis

England

London & South East (Highest Density):

• Approved Installers: 120+ companies
• Coverage: Excellent across all London boroughs and surrounding counties
• Competition: High, leading to competitive pricing
• Average Cost: £800-£1,200 (due to competition)
• Wait Times: 1-3 weeks typical

Major Installers: Pod Point, Andersen EV, EO Charging, Ohme, Wallbox official installers

Midlands (Good Coverage):

• Approved Installers: 60+ companies
• Coverage: Strong in Birmingham, Nottingham, Leicester, Derby
• Rural Coverage: Adequate but may involve travel charges
• Average Cost: £900-£1,300
• Wait Times: 2-4 weeks

North West (Good Coverage):

• Approved Installers: 50+ companies
• Coverage: Excellent in Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds
• Rural Cumbria: Limited, longer wait times
• Average Cost: £900-£1,400
• Wait Times: 2-4 weeks

North East (Moderate Coverage):

• Approved Installers: 30+ companies
• Coverage: Good in Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham
• Rural Northumberland: Limited options
• Average Cost: £1,000-£1,500
• Wait Times: 3-6 weeks

South West (Moderate Coverage):

• Approved Installers: 40+ companies
• Coverage: Good in Bristol, Plymouth, Exeter
• Cornwall/Devon Rural: Limited, travel charges common
• Average Cost: £1,000-£1,500 (plus £50-£150 travel for rural)
• Wait Times: 3-5 weeks

Scotland

Central Belt (Good Coverage):

• Approved Installers: 35+ companies
• Coverage: Strong in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Stirling
• Average Cost: £900-£1,400
• Wait Times: 2-4 weeks
• Additional Support: Energy Saving Trust Scotland grants (£300-£400 additional for rural)

Highlands & Islands (Limited Coverage):

• Approved Installers: 10-15 companies
• Coverage: Inverness area adequate, islands limited
• Average Cost: £1,200-£1,800 (including travel)
• Wait Times: 4-8 weeks
• Challenge: Travel costs can add £200-£400

Wales

South Wales (Moderate Coverage):

• Approved Installers: 25+ companies
• Coverage: Good in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport
• Average Cost: £900-£1,400
• Wait Times: 2-5 weeks

North Wales (Limited Coverage):

• Approved Installers: 8-12 companies
• Coverage: Adequate in Wrexham, Chester border areas
• Rural Mid-Wales: Very limited
• Average Cost: £1,100-£1,600
• Wait Times: 4-8 weeks

Northern Ireland

Coverage:

• Approved Installers: 15-20 companies
• Coverage: Good in Belfast, Derry, major towns
• Rural Areas: Limited but improving
• Average Cost: £1,000-£1,500
• Wait Times: 3-6 weeks
• Note: Different grant system (DEFA scheme £900)

Essential Installer Selection Criteria

1. Verification of Credentials

Before Engaging Any Installer:

Check MCS Certification:

• Request MCS certificate number
• Verify at: mcscertified.com/check-certification
• Confirm certification is current (not expired)
• Check for any suspensions or conditions

Verify OZEV Approval:

• Confirm listing on official OZEV installer directory
• Cross-reference company name and registration
• Check approval covers your region

Electrician Qualifications:

• Request proof of 18th Edition BS 7671
• Ask for NICEIC, NAPIT, or equivalent registration
• Verify public liability insurance (minimum £2 million)
• Check electrician's industry experience (ideally 5+ years)

Company Verification:

• Companies House registration check
• Trading Standards complaints check
• Trustpilot/Google reviews research
• How long in business (prefer 2+ years)

2. Experience and Expertise

Installation Volume:

• Ask: "How many EV chargers have you installed?"
• Good Answer: 100+ installations indicates experience
• Excellent: 500+ installations shows established operation

Property Type Experience:

• Ask: "Have you installed in [your property type] before?"
• Your Type: Terraced house, flat, listed building, new build, etc.
• Look For: Specific examples and photos of similar installations

Charger Brand Expertise:

• Ask: "Which charger brands do you install most frequently?"
• Good: 3-5 brands indicates flexibility
• Better: Manufacturer-certified for your preferred brand
• Concern: Only one brand (may indicate commission bias)

Complex Scenarios:

• Solar panel integration experience
• Load balancing installations
• Three-phase charger installations
• DNO approval process familiarity

3. Service Quality Indicators

Pre-Installation Site Survey:

• Essential: Proper installer should offer free site survey
• Survey Includes:
  • Consumer unit inspection
  • Cable routing assessment
  • Optimal charger location discussion
  • DNO notification requirements
  • Earthing and bonding check
  • WiFi signal strength test (for smart chargers)

Quotation Clarity:

• Itemised Breakdown: Labour, charger unit, materials, DNO fees
• Grant Deduction: £350 clearly shown as reduction
• No Hidden Fees: Travel, parking, weekend charges stated upfront
• Warranty Terms: Installation and equipment warranty clearly defined

Communication Standards:

• Response Time: Initial contact answered within 24-48 hours
• Survey Scheduling: Offered within 1-2 weeks
• Quotation Delivery: Within 48 hours of survey
• Question Handling: Patient, thorough, technical competence evident

Professionalism:

• Written Communications: Professional, error-free, branded materials
• Survey Visit: Punctual, uniformed, ID badge, safety footwear
• Property Respect: Protective coverings, dust sheets, cleanup commitment

4. Pricing and Value Assessment

Typical Cost Breakdown (After £350 OZEV Grant):

Standard Installation (Most Properties):

• Total Quoted: £1,150-£1,500
• After Grant: £800-£1,150
• Includes:
  • 7kW smart charger (Wallbox Pulsar, Ohme, Zappi, etc.)
  • Up to 15 metres cable routing
  • Consumer unit work (if needed)
  • DNO notification
  • Electrical Installation Certificate
  • 3-year warranty (minimum)

Premium Installation:

• Total Quoted: £1,500-£2,200
• After Grant: £1,150-£1,850
• Includes: Premium charger (Andersen, Easee, Pod Point Solo 3)
• Additional: Extended warranty, superior aesthetics, advanced features

Complex Installation:

• Total Quoted: £1,800-£3,500+
• After Grant: £1,450-£3,150+
• Scenarios:
  • Consumer unit upgrade required (£400-£800)
  • Extensive cable routing (over 20 metres)
  • Three-phase installation
  • Load balancing for multiple chargers
  • Listed building considerations

Red Flags - Pricing:

🚩 Too Cheap: Under £700 after grant (corners likely being cut) 🚩 Pressure Tactics: "Special price today only" or urgent deadline 🚩 Vague Quotation: No itemisation, "approximate" totals 🚩 Upfront Payment: Requesting full payment before work starts 🚩 Cash Only: Legitimate installers accept bank transfers/cards

Fair Pricing Indicators:

✅ Market Rate: £800-£1,500 after grant for standard installations ✅ Transparent: Itemised breakdown provided ✅ Payment Terms: Deposit reasonable (10-30%), balance on completion ✅ Written Quote: Formal quotation document with validity period ✅ No Hidden Extras: All costs disclosed upfront

Questions to Ask Potential Installers

Initial Contact Questions

1. "Are you currently OZEV-approved and MCS-certified?"

• Expected: Yes, with certificate numbers provided
• Follow-up: "Can you email me your MCS certificate?"

2. "How many EV charger installations have you completed?"

• Good: 100+ installations
• Excellent: 500+ installations
• Concern: Under 50 (limited experience)

3. "Do you offer a free site survey before quotation?"

• Expected: Yes (standard practice)
• Red Flag: Quotes without survey (cannot be accurate)

4. "What's your typical wait time from survey to installation?"

• Reasonable: 2-4 weeks
• Concern: Over 8 weeks (may indicate poor organization or overbooked)
• Also Concern: "We can do it tomorrow" (too eager, possible cowboy trader)

5. "Which charger brands do you install?"

• Good: 3-5 major brands (Wallbox, Ohme, Zappi, Pod Point, EO, Hypervolt)
• Concern: Only one brand (commission bias possible)

Site Survey Questions

6. "Will my consumer unit need upgrading?"

• Look For: Thorough inspection before answering
• Good Sign: Checks MCB, RCD, available ways, labelling
• Concern: Immediate "yes" without proper assessment

7. "What cable routing do you recommend and why?"

• Look For: Explanation of optimal route considering aesthetics, cable length, cost
• Good Sign: Shows you options with pros/cons
• Concern: One option only without explanation

8. "Do you need DNO approval for my installation?"

• Expected: Notification for all installations, approval for 3-phase or specific scenarios
• Red Flag: Doesn't know or suggests skipping notification

9. "What's included in your warranty?"

• Minimum: 3-year charger warranty, 12-month labour warranty
• Better: 5-year charger, 24-month labour
• Premium: Extended warranties available (for additional cost)

10. "Can you show me photos of similar installations you've completed?"

• Expected: Yes, with portfolio of previous work
• Good Sign: Similar property types to yours
• Concern: No photos or reluctance to share

Before Committing Questions

11. "What's your complaints procedure if issues arise?"

• Expected: Clear escalation process, MCS complaints as final resort
• Good Sign: Written complaints policy provided

12. "What happens if the charger develops a fault after installation?"

• Expected: Warranty covers replacement/repair, clear process explained
• Look For: Manufacturer warranty terms AND installer labour coverage

13. "Will you provide an Electrical Installation Certificate?"

• Essential: Yes, this is legally required
• Red Flag: Doesn't know what EIC is, or suggests it's optional

14. "What payment terms do you require?"

• Reasonable: 10-30% deposit, balance on completion
• Red Flag: 100% upfront, cash only, no invoicing

15. "When can you start and how long will installation take?"

• Typical: Start in 2-4 weeks, installation takes 3-5 hours
• Red Flag: Vague timescales, repeatedly delayed start dates

Red Flags and Avoiding Rogue Traders

Warning Signs of Non-Legitimate Installers

Credential Red Flags:

🚩 Cannot Provide MCS Certificate Number: Legitimate installers readily provide this

🚩 Not Listed on OZEV Directory: If not listed, cannot claim grant

🚩 Expired Certification: Check dates on certificates provided

🚩 "We'll Sort the Grant Later": Professional installers handle grant claim properly from start

🚩 No Public Liability Insurance: Legally required, refusal to show is major concern

Quotation Red Flags:

🚩 Verbal Quote Only: Professional installers provide written quotations

🚩 Pressure to Sign Immediately: "Offer expires today" tactics

🚩 Unusually Low Price: Under £700 after grant typically indicates corners being cut

🚩 No Itemisation: "Total installed" without breakdown

🚩 Charger Not Specified: Must state exact model and brand

Conduct Red Flags:

🚩 Unmarked Van: Professional installers have branded vehicles

🚩 No ID or Uniform: Legitimate electricians carry identification

🚩 Suggests Skipping DNO Notification: Illegal and dangerous

🚩 Cash Only Payment: Legitimate businesses accept bank transfer/card

🚩 No Registered Address: PO Box or mobile-only contact

🚩 Poor Communication: Unanswered calls, delayed responses, vague answers

Installation Red Flags:

🚩 No Risk Assessment: H&S assessment should be completed before work

🚩 Inadequate Equipment: Professional tools and safety equipment essential

🚩 Rushed Work: Standard installation shouldn't be rushed (3-5 hours typical)

🚩 No Cleanup: Professional installers clean up thoroughly

🚩 Refuses to Provide EIC: Electrical Installation Certificate is legal requirement

How to Protect Yourself

1. Always Verify Credentials:

• Check MCS certification at mcscertified.com
• Verify OZEV approval on government website
• Request insurance certificate
• Check Companies House registration

2. Get Multiple Quotes:

• Obtain 3 quotations minimum
• Compare itemised breakdowns
• Be wary of outliers (too cheap or too expensive)
• Don't feel pressured to choose cheapest

3. Use Written Contracts:

• Insist on written quotation acceptance
• Ensure all terms in writing (timescales, warranty, payment)
• Keep copies of all correspondence
• Don't accept verbal agreements

4. Payment Protection:

• Never pay 100% upfront
• Use bank transfer (traceable) not cash
• Consider payment by credit card (Section 75 protection over £100)
• Withhold final payment until EIC received

5. Research Reviews:

• Check Trustpilot, Google Reviews, Checkatrade
• Look for consistent patterns (good or bad)
• Be wary of only 5-star reviews (may be fake)
• Recent reviews more relevant than old ones

6. Trust Your Instincts:

• If something feels wrong, walk away
• Pressure tactics are major red flag
• Professional installers won't rush you
• Legitimate businesses comfortable with scrutiny

National vs Local Installers

National Installation Companies

Examples: Pod Point, BP Pulse, Ohme (via partners), Wallbox official network

Advantages:

• Brand Recognition: Established reputation
• Standardised Processes: Consistent service quality
• Customer Support: Dedicated helplines, online tracking
• Warranty Confidence: Large company backing
• Scale: Extensive coverage across UK
• Technology: Integrated booking and management systems

Disadvantages:

• Higher Costs: Typically £100-£300 more than local
• Less Flexibility: Standardised offerings, less customisation
• Wait Times: Can be longer due to demand (4-8 weeks)
• Communication: Less personal, call centre support
• Local Knowledge: May be less familiar with specific regional issues

Best For:

• First-time installers wanting brand reassurance
• Standard installations with no complications
• Those valuing process over personal service
• Company car schemes (some integrate with fleet management)

Local Independent Installers

Examples: Regional electricians with MCS/OZEV approval

Advantages:

• Competitive Pricing: Often £100-£300 cheaper than nationals
• Personal Service: Direct contact with installer/owner
• Flexibility: More willing to accommodate specific requests
• Faster Response: Shorter wait times (1-3 weeks typical)
• Local Expertise: Familiar with regional DNO, council requirements
• Relationship Building: Ongoing local support

Disadvantages:

• Variable Quality: Depends on individual company
• Less Support Infrastructure: May not have 24/7 helpline
• Smaller Scale: Limited charger brand options sometimes
• Business Risk: Smaller companies may cease trading
• Less Online Presence: Harder to research/review

Best For:

• Cost-conscious buyers
• Those valuing personal relationships
• Complex installations requiring flexibility
• Rural areas where nationals charge travel premiums
• Supporting local businesses

Hybrid Approach: Manufacturer Partner Networks

Examples: Zappi installers, Hypervolt partners, Andersen approved network

Advantages:

• Brand Training: Installer certified on specific equipment
• Quality Assurance: Manufacturer vetting and monitoring
• Warranty Support: Direct manufacturer relationship
• Balance: Local service with brand backing
• Expertise: Deep knowledge of chosen charger

Best For:

• Specific charger preference (e.g., want Zappi for solar integration)
• Balance of local service and brand confidence
• Premium charger installations (Andersen, Easee)

Installation Process Expectations

Stage 1: Initial Contact and Quotation (Week 1)

Day 1-2:

• Initial contact via phone/email/website
• Basic property information gathered
• Site survey appointment scheduled

Day 3-7:

• Site survey conducted (30-60 minutes)
• Installer assesses consumer unit, cable route, charger location
• WiFi signal tested (for smart chargers)
• Photos taken for quotation preparation

Day 8-10:

• Written quotation received
• Itemised breakdown provided
• OZEV grant deduction shown
• Validity period stated (typically 30 days)

Stage 2: Booking and Preparation (Week 2-3)

Quotation Acceptance:

• Formal acceptance (signature/email confirmation)
• Deposit payment (10-30% typical)
• Installation date scheduled
• Charger ordering initiated

DNO Notification:

• Installer submits notification to local DNO
• Standard installations: notification only (no approval wait)
• Complex installations: DNO approval required (1-4 weeks)

Pre-Installation Communication:

• Installation date confirmed
• Expected duration (3-5 hours)
• Parking/access requirements
• Power outage warning (30 minutes typical)

Stage 3: Installation Day (Week 3-4)

Arrival (Time Agreed):

• Installer arrives with tools, equipment, charger
• ID verification
• Risk assessment completed
• Work area prepared (dust sheets, protection)

Installation Process (3-5 hours):

1. Power Isolation (30 minutes):

   • Consumer unit work
   • Circuit installation/modification
   • RCD/MCB installation if required

2. Cable Routing (1-2 hours):

   • Cable run from consumer unit to charger location
   • Containment installation (conduit/trunking)
   • Wall penetrations (filled and sealed)

3. Charger Mounting (30 minutes):

   • Backplate fixing to wall
   • Spirit level alignment
   • Secure mounting verified

4. Electrical Connection (30 minutes):

   • Charger wiring
   • Earth bonding
   • Connection testing

5. Testing and Commissioning (30-45 minutes):

   • Insulation resistance testing
   • Earth loop impedance testing
   • RCD trip testing
   • Charger function testing
   • WiFi connection setup
   • Demonstration of operation

Completion:

• Site cleanup and waste removal
• Electrical Installation Certificate provided
• User manual and warranty documentation
• App setup assistance (smart chargers)
• Final payment
• OZEV grant claim submitted by installer

Stage 4: Post-Installation (Week 4+)

Within 24 Hours:

• Charger operational
• App connectivity confirmed
• Initial test charge completed

Within 1 Week:

• Installer follow-up call/email
• Any minor issues addressed

Within 4-8 Weeks:

• OZEV grant processed
• Grant amount refunded to customer OR deducted from original invoice

Ongoing:

• Warranty coverage active
• Installer support for issues
• Annual electrical inspection recommended (though not required)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do I verify an installer is genuinely OZEV-approved?

Always verify through official channels:

Step 1: Ask installer for their MCS certificate number

Step 2: Check at mcscertified.com:

• Enter company name or certificate number
• Verify certification is current (not expired)
• Check for any conditions or suspensions

Step 3: Cross-reference on OZEV installer directory:

• Visit gov.uk OZEV installer search
• Confirm company is listed
• Check approved coverage areas

Red Flags:

• Refuses to provide MCS number
• Certificate is expired
• Not listed on official OZEV directory
• "We're waiting for approval" (shouldn't be quoting grant work)

Never Rely On: Installer's word alone, website claims, or certificates that cannot be independently verified.

Q2: Should I choose the cheapest quote?

Not necessarily. Consider total value, not just price:

Cheapest Quote Risks:

• Cutting corners on installation quality
• Using inferior materials or cable
• Inadequate consumer unit work
• Rushed installation
• Poor warranty terms
• May not include DNO fees

Better Approach:

1. Eliminate quotes outside reasonable range (under £700 or over £1,800 for standard installs)
2. Compare itemised breakdowns
3. Assess installer reputation and reviews
4. Consider warranty terms and support quality
5. Evaluate communication and professionalism

Sweet Spot: Middle quote often represents best value - reasonable price with quality service.

Remember: You're investing in safety-critical electrical work. Saving £100-£200 isn't worth compromised installation quality.

Q3: What if no OZEV-approved installers cover my rural area?

Several options exist:

Option 1: Extended Coverage Installers

• Some installers travel further for additional fee
• Typically £50-£150 travel charge for 30-50 miles
• Ask installers in nearest town if they cover your postcode

Option 2: Scotland/Wales Additional Grants

• Scotland: Energy Saving Trust Scotland offers additional £300-£400 for rural areas
• Wales: Some local authorities offer supplementary grants
• Reduces effective cost even with travel charges

Option 3: National Installers

• Pod Point, BP Pulse often have wider coverage
• May charge premium but guarantee service

Option 4: Install Without Grant

• If no approved installer available, consider:
• Local MCS-certified electrician (eligible for future schemes)
• Total cost £1,000-£1,500 without grant
• Still significant savings vs public charging

Option 5: Wait for Expansion

• OZEV installer network expanding
• Check directory quarterly for new local approvals
• Consider portable charger interim solution

Q4: Can I supply my own charger and just pay for installation?

Generally no, for OZEV grant installations:

OZEV Grant Rules:

• Charger must be supplied by OZEV-approved installer
• This ensures proper warranty chain and approved equipment
• Self-supplied chargers ineligible for grant

Exceptions:

• Some installers allow customer purchase from manufacturer directly (still arranged through installer)
• Must be from approved charger list
• Installer still handles procurement and warranty

Non-Grant Installations:

• If not claiming grant, some installers accept customer-supplied chargers
• Risks:
  • Warranty complications (who's responsible?)
  • Installer may refuse to support charger issues
  • May void equipment warranty
  • Installation warranty may be limited

Recommendation: Let installer supply charger for grant installations. For non-grant, discuss customer-supply option clearly upfront with written warranty agreement.

Q5: How long does the grant claim process take?

Typical Timeline:

Immediately After Installation:

• Installer submits grant claim to OZEV on your behalf
• Required: photos, EIC, customer declaration signed

Within 1-2 Weeks:

• OZEV processes claim
• Verification checks completed
• Approval or query issued

Within 4-6 Weeks:

• Grant payment issued
• Payment method depends on installer's arrangement:
  • Option A: £350 refunded directly to you
  • Option B: £350 paid to installer (if you paid full amount upfront)

Delays Can Occur If:

• Incomplete documentation
• Photos unclear or missing
• Customer declaration errors
• Installer administration backlog
• OZEV processing volume high (especially March financial year-end)

What You Should Do:

• Ensure you sign customer declaration accurately
• Keep copies of all documentation
• Ask installer for claim reference number
• Follow up if no update after 8 weeks

Q6: What happens if I have issues with the installation?

Immediate Issues (Within 24-48 Hours):

Step 1: Contact installer directly

• Call/email within business hours
• Describe issue clearly
• Request visit to rectify

Expectation: Reputable installer should respond within 24 hours, visit within 1 week for genuine defects

During Warranty Period:

Step 1: Report to installer in writing (email)

• Date, time, description of issue
• Photos if visible problem
• Reference installation date and invoice number

Step 2: Allow reasonable time for response (7 days)

Step 3: If no response or unsatisfactory, escalate:

• Installer complaints procedure (should be documented)
• MCS complaints process (if MCS certified)
• Trading Standards (for serious issues)
• Citizens Advice consumer service

MCS Complaints Process:

1. Complain to installer directly first
2. If unresolved after 8 weeks, contact MCS
3. MCS investigates and can mandate remedial action
4. MCS can suspend or remove certification for serious breaches

Legal Action:

• Small claims court for breach of contract
• Citizens Advice for guidance
• Consider legal costs vs issue severity

Prevention:

• Choose reputable, well-reviewed installers
• Get everything in writing
• Pay by credit card for Section 75 protection (purchases over £100)
• Document all communications

Q7: Do I need to get my own quotes or can I use a comparison service?

Both approaches valid, each with advantages:

Comparison Services (e.g., GreenMatch, EV Installation Quote):

Advantages:

• One form, multiple quotes
• Saves time contacting multiple installers
• Often pre-vetted installers
• Can compare side-by-side

Disadvantages:

• Installers may add commission cost (£50-£150)
• Limited to comparison service's network
• May receive sales calls from multiple installers
• Less control over which installers quote

Direct Contact:

Advantages:

• No commission markup
• Choose specific installers you've researched
• Direct relationship from start
• Better negotiating position

Disadvantages:

• More time-consuming
• Need to research installers yourself
• Coordinate multiple surveys

Recommended Approach:

1. Research 2-3 installers directly (local, good reviews)
2. Use one comparison service for additional quote
3. Compare all quotes (typically 3-4 total)
4. Choose best value considering all factors

This hybrid approach balances convenience with direct relationships and ensures competitive pricing.

Q8: Are installer reviews trustworthy?

Reviews can be valuable but require critical assessment:

Most Trustworthy Platforms:

1. Trustpilot (if company-verified):

   • Harder to fake
   • Can see review dates and distribution
   • Company responses visible

2. Google Reviews:

   • Linked to Google accounts
   • Local business reviews
   • Timeline of reviews visible

3. Checkatrade/Rated People (for trade-verified members):

   • Verified customer reviews
   • Job-specific feedback

Red Flags in Reviews: 🚩 All 5-star reviews (unrealistic) 🚩 All posted within short time period (likely fake) 🚩 Generic language ("Great service, highly recommend" with no detail) 🚩 No negative reviews ever (suspicious for established company) 🚩 Company doesn't respond to negative reviews

Green Flags: ✅ Mix of ratings (mostly 4-5 stars with occasional 3-star realistic) ✅ Detailed, specific feedback ✅ Reviews spread over time ✅ Company responds professionally to all reviews (positive and negative) ✅ Recent reviews (last 3-6 months most relevant)

How to Use Reviews Effectively:

1. Read 5-10 recent reviews (ignore outliers)
2. Look for patterns (consistent praise or complaints)
3. Note how company handles criticism
4. Focus on recent reviews (quality can change)
5. Combine with other research (credentials, quotes, communication)

Q9: What if the installer says my property isn't suitable for a charger?

Common Reasons and Solutions:

Reason 1: No Off-Street Parking

• Issue: OZEV grant requires dedicated parking space
• Solutions:
  • Kerbside charging scheme (council-dependent)
  • Shared driveway agreement with neighbour
  • Portable charger for occasional use
  • Workplace/public charging primary, home backup

Reason 2: Consumer Unit Full or Outdated

• Issue: No spare ways for new circuit, or consumer unit doesn't meet current standards
• Solution: Consumer unit upgrade (£400-£800 additional cost)
• Note: Still eligible for OZEV grant; upgrade is separate cost

Reason 3: Insufficient Supply Capacity

• Issue: Main fuse too small (60A main fuse with high existing load)
• Solutions:
  • DNO supply upgrade (free but 8-12 week wait)
  • Load management charger (reduces power when high house demand)
  • Lower power charger (3.6kW instead of 7kW)

Reason 4: Excessive Cable Distance

• Issue: Over 30 metres from consumer unit to parking area
• Solution:
  • Pay additional for extra cable (£10-£15 per metre)
  • Alternative consumer unit location (garage/outbuilding)
  • DNO agreement for external meter closer to parking

Reason 5: Listed Building Restrictions

• Issue: Planning permission or conservation area restrictions
• Solutions:
  • Internal garage mounting (if available)
  • Discrete routing and mounting options
  • Planning application (3-8 weeks, £206 fee)

Get Second Opinion: If installer says "impossible," consider:

• Second installer assessment (different approach/solution)
• Specialist listed building installer
• Council planning department advice (free)

Most Properties Suitable: 85-90% of UK homes with off-street parking can have charger installed. Don't give up after one "no."

Q10: Can I switch installers after paying a deposit?

Legally:

• Depends on terms of contract/quotation
• Many quotations include cancellation terms
• Consumer Rights Act 2015 provides some protection

Typical Scenarios:

Before Site Survey:

• Usually no deposit paid yet
• Free to choose different installer
• No obligations

After Survey, Before Deposit:

• Still no financial commitment
• Can decline quotation and choose alternative
• Professional courtesy: inform installer of decision

After Deposit Paid, Before Installation:

• Check Contract: Cancellation terms should be stated
• Reasonable Installer: May refund deposit minus survey cost (£50-£100)
• Unreasonable Installer: May claim deposit non-refundable
• Your Rights: If installer breached terms (e.g., delayed excessively, misrepresented), entitled to refund

After Installation Started:

• Cancellation difficult and potentially costly
• May owe for work completed
• Only justifiable for serious breach (incompetence, dangerous work)

How to Protect Yourself:

1. Read quotation cancellation terms before signing
2. Ask about cancellation policy verbally
3. Reasonable policies: 7-14 day cooling-off period, deposit refundable minus costs incurred
4. Unreasonable: "All deposits non-refundable under any circumstances"
5. Pay deposits by credit card (Section 75 protection)

If Dispute Arises:

• Citizens Advice consumer service
• Chargeback via credit card issuer
• Small claims court (last resort)

Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal OZEV Installer

Selecting the right OZEV-approved installer balances credential verification, experience assessment, value evaluation, and personal service fit. The £350 grant makes professional installation accessible, but only when you choose an installer who prioritises safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Your Selection Checklist:

✅ Credentials Verified: MCS certified, OZEV approved, current certifications

✅ Experience Confirmed: 100+ installations, property type familiarity

✅ Reviews Researched: Positive patterns across multiple platforms

✅ Quotation Clear: Itemised, reasonable pricing (£800-£1,500 after grant), written terms

✅ Communication Professional: Responsive, patient, technically competent

✅ Warranty Comprehensive: Minimum 3-year equipment, 12-month labour

✅ Red Flags Absent: No pressure tactics, cash demands, credential issues

✅ Gut Feeling Positive: Trust your instincts about professionalism

Take Your Time: Choosing an installer is not a decision to rush. Invest time in research, obtain multiple quotes, ask questions, and select the installer who demonstrates competence, transparency, and reliability.

The right installer transforms EV charging installation from a potentially stressful experience into a smooth, professional service that provides years of safe, reliable home charging. Your diligence in selection protects your property, your investment, and your family's safety.