OZEV Grant Complete Application Guide 2025

OZEV Grant Complete Application Guide 2025

The UK government's EV chargepoint grant (formerly known as the OZEV grant) helps eligible households reduce the cost of installing home EV chargers. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the grant in 2025, including eligibility, application process, and how to maximise your savings.

Understanding the EV Chargepoint Grant 2025

What Is the OZEV Grant?

The EV chargepoint grant (officially called the Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant) provides financial support for installing electric vehicle chargers at residential properties. The grant is administered by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV), part of the Department for Transport.

Current grant value (2025): £350 towards the purchase and installation of an EV charger.

Important change: Since April 2022, the grant is no longer available for homeowners with off-street parking. The grant now only applies to:

1. Flat owners with dedicated off-street parking
2. Tenants in rental accommodation (flats and rental properties) with dedicated parking

Why Did the Grant Rules Change?

The government refocused the grant scheme to target those with greater installation barriers. Homeowners with driveways face relatively straightforward installations and lower costs, while flat residents often encounter:

• Higher installation costs due to complex electrical routing
• Requirement for freeholder/landlord permissions
• Shared parking arrangements complicating charger access
• Building management approval processes

The grant now prioritises these more challenging installations where financial support has greater impact.

Eligibility Requirements 2025

Who Can Claim the Grant?

You're eligible for the £350 EV chargepoint grant if you meet all of these criteria:

Property type:

• You live in a flat (apartment) and own the property (leaseholder or freeholder)
• OR you're a tenant renting a flat or house with your landlord's permission

Parking:

• You have dedicated off-street parking (allocated parking bay or designated space)
• The parking space is for your exclusive use (not shared or communal)
• You can legally install a charger at this location

Vehicle ownership:

• You own or lease an eligible electric vehicle
• The vehicle is registered to your address

Previous grants:

• You haven't claimed an OZEV grant for this property address before
• Each parking space is eligible for one grant only

Charger requirements:

• You must install an OZEV-approved smart charger
• Installation must be by an OZEV-authorized installer
• The charger must meet Smart Charge Point Regulations 2021

What Properties Are NOT Eligible?

Ineligible property types:

• Detached houses with driveways (not eligible since April 2022)
• Semi-detached houses with off-street parking
• Terraced houses with dedicated parking
• Bungalows with driveways
• Properties without dedicated parking (on-street parking only)

Note: If you own a house (any type) with off-street parking, you cannot claim the OZEV grant. However, check for local authority grants—some councils offer additional support to all homeowners.

Special Cases and Exceptions

Multiple parking spaces: If your flat has two designated parking spaces, you can potentially claim two grants (one per space), but each requires a separate charger installation.

Shared ownership: If you own your flat through shared ownership, you're eligible, provided you have permission from the housing association/freeholder.

Properties with commercial use: Mixed-use properties (e.g., flat above a shop you own) may be eligible if the parking is for residential use. Check with your installer.

Landlords installing for tenants: Landlords can apply for grants for their rental properties, but only for chargers that will be used by specific tenant-owned/leased EVs (not as general property improvements).

Approved Chargers and Installers

OZEV-Approved Smart Chargers

Only chargers on the OZEV-approved list are eligible. These chargers all comply with Smart Charge Point Regulations 2021, ensuring:

• Remote access capability for smart charging
• Ability to respond to grid signals
• Random delay functions to prevent grid stress
• Off-peak charging defaults
• Security and data privacy standards

Top OZEV-approved chargers for flats (2025):

Ohme Home Pro (£850-£950 installed after grant)

• Excellent smart features
• Compact design ideal for parking bays
• Integration with all major EV tariffs
• 7kW, 3-year warranty

Wallbox Pulsar Plus (£700-£850 installed after grant)

• Sleek, minimalist design
• WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
• Great smartphone app
• 7kW, 2-year warranty

Zappi v2 (£850-£1,000 installed after grant)

• Excellent reliability
• Solar PV compatibility (if building has panels)
• Multiple charging modes
• 7kW, 3-year warranty

EO Mini Pro 3 (£800-£950 installed after grant)

• Compact British design
• IP65 weatherproof rating
• Built-in cable management
• 7kW, 3-year warranty

Pod Point Solo 3 (£850-£1,000 installed after grant)

• Integration with major energy suppliers
• Clean design suitable for communal areas
• Reliable connectivity
• 7kW, 2-year warranty

Where to check: The official OZEV-approved charger list is available at gov.uk. Search "OZEV approved chargepoint list" for the current document. Your installer will also confirm which models are eligible.

Finding OZEV-Authorized Installers

Only OZEV-authorized installers can claim grants on your behalf. These installers have:

• Completed OZEV-specific training
• Proven experience with EV charger installations
• Competent Person Scheme registration (NICEIC, NAPIT, etc.)
• Appropriate insurance and qualifications

How to find authorized installers:

1. OZEV installer search tool: Visit gov.uk and search "OZEV authorized installer list" for the official directory
2. Manufacturer referrals: Charger manufacturers (Ohme, Wallbox, Zappi) maintain lists of authorized installers
3. Comparison services: Websites like Zap-Map and EV-charger comparison sites filter for OZEV-authorized installers

What to ask potential installers:

• "Are you OZEV-authorized?" (ask for their authorization number)
• "How many flat installations have you completed?"
• "Do you handle the entire grant application process?"
• "What's included in your quote?" (should be clear about grant discount)
• "What permissions do I need from my freeholder/building management?"

Red flag: Any installer who isn't aware of current OZEV grant rules (e.g., still advertising grants for house owners) isn't keeping up-to-date with regulations. Choose someone knowledgeable about 2025 requirements.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Stage 1: Initial Research and Permissions (Week 1-2)

Step 1: Check your eligibility Confirm you meet all criteria:

• Flat owner or tenant
• Dedicated off-street parking
• Haven't claimed grant before
• Have eligible EV

Step 2: Review your lease and building rules Before contacting installers:

• Read your lease for alterations clauses
• Check building management rules about charger installations
• Identify who you need permission from (freeholder, management company, residents' association)

Step 3: Obtain necessary permissions Contact your freeholder or building management in writing:

Sample permission request letter:

[Your name and flat number]
[Date]

Dear [Freeholder/Building Manager],

Re: Permission to Install Electric Vehicle Charger

I am writing to request permission to install an electric vehicle charger at my designated parking space [parking space number/location].

The installation will be carried out by an OZEV-authorized, qualified electrician and will comply with all relevant UK regulations including BS 7671 and Building Regulations Part P. The charger will be a smart charger meeting Smart Charge Point Regulations 2021.

I am eligible for the government's EV chargepoint grant, which provides £350 towards installation costs. The charger will be:
- Installed by [installer company name]
- Model: [charger make and model]
- Location: [specific parking space and mounting location]
- Appearance: [describe charger appearance, include photo/specification sheet]

The installation will not damage building fabric beyond minor wall fixings, which can be made good if required in future. I will provide you with all electrical certificates upon completion.

I would be happy to discuss this further or provide additional information. Please could you confirm permission in writing so I can proceed with installation?

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely,
[Your name]

Attach charger specification sheets and installation diagrams if available (your installer can provide these).

Timeline: Allow 2-4 weeks for freeholder response. Some are quick; others require board meetings or formal approval processes.

Stage 2: Obtaining Quotes (Week 2-3)

Step 4: Request quotes from multiple OZEV-authorized installers

Contact at least three installers. Provide them with:

• Your property type (flat, apartment building)
• Parking location (underground, surface, allocated bay number)
• Distance from flat to parking (approximate)
• Consumer unit location (if known)
• Confirmation you're eligible for the grant

What to expect in quotes:

Quote format example:

Charger unit: Ohme Home Pro 7kW    £799
Standard installation:              £500
Subtotal:                         £1,299
Less OZEV grant:                   -£350
------------------------------------------
You pay:                            £949

Quotes should clearly show:

• Total installation cost
• Grant deduction
• What you actually pay
• What's included (cable length, mounting, certification)
• Any additional costs (e.g., if complex routing required)
• Payment terms

Step 5: Choose your installer

Consider:

• Total cost after grant
• Installer experience with flats
• Reviews and references
• Warranty terms
• Included charger model and features
• Installer responsiveness and professionalism

Stage 3: Pre-Installation Survey (Week 3-4)

Step 6: Site survey

Your chosen installer conducts a detailed survey (usually free). For flat installations, they'll assess:

Electrical route:

• Location of your consumer unit (in your flat)
• Route from consumer unit to parking space
• Whether route passes through communal areas (may require building management approval for cable routing)
• Cable length required

Consumer unit capacity:

• Your consumer unit's capacity to handle 7kW charger
• Whether upgrades are needed
• RCD and circuit breaker requirements

Parking space location:

• Charger mounting location (wall, post, bollard)
• Cable management (avoiding trip hazards in communal areas)
• Distance to your parking space
• Any obstacles or challenges

Building-specific considerations:

• Access requirements for installation day
• Any building rules about working hours or access
• Communal area regulations

DNO notification:

• Whether Distribution Network Operator notification is required
• Timeline implications

Step 7: Formal quote and timeline

After survey, you'll receive:

• Final detailed quote
• Scope of work
• Installation timeline
• Any additional permissions or work required
• Grant application confirmation

Stage 4: Grant Application and Installation (Week 4-6)

Step 8: Installer handles grant application

Important: You don't apply for the grant directly. Your OZEV-authorized installer handles the entire application process on your behalf.

The installer will:

1. Register your application on the OZEV portal
2. Upload evidence of your eligibility
3. Confirm charger and installation details
4. Receive grant approval (usually immediate for clear-cut cases)

Evidence required (installer will collect from you):

• Proof of residence (utility bill, council tax statement)
• Proof of vehicle ownership/lease (V5C logbook or lease agreement)
• Confirmation of dedicated parking (parking permit, lease clause, or building management confirmation)
• Freeholder permission letter (if applicable)
• Proof you haven't claimed grant before (declaration)

Step 9: Installation scheduled

Once grant is approved:

• Installation date scheduled (typically 1-3 weeks from approval)
• You'll be sent preparation instructions
• Any building access arrangements confirmed

Step 10: Installation day

Typical flat installation takes 4-6 hours (longer than house installations due to cable routing complexity).

Installation process:

1. Electrician arrival and building access
2. Cable routing from consumer unit to parking space
3. Charger mounting at parking bay
4. Electrical connection and consumer unit circuit addition
5. Comprehensive testing
6. Commissioning and setup
7. User training on charger operation
8. Documentation handover

You'll receive:

• Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)
• Charger warranty documentation
• User manual
• Smart charging app setup
• OZEV grant confirmation

Step 11: Post-installation compliance

Your installer will:

• Notify Building Control (within 30 days)
• Submit grant claim to OZEV
• Provide you with Building Regulations Compliance Certificate

You'll pay: Only the post-grant amount (installation cost minus £350). The grant is deducted before you pay—you never handle the grant money directly.

Timeline Summary

Realistic timeline for flat installations:

• Weeks 1-2: Check eligibility, obtain freeholder permissions
• Week 2-3: Obtain quotes from OZEV-authorized installers
• Week 3-4: Site survey and final quote
• Week 4-5: Grant application and approval (handled by installer)
• Week 5-6: Installation scheduled and completed

Total timeline: 5-8 weeks from decision to charging. Can be longer if:

• Freeholder permission is slow (add 2-4 weeks)
• DNO approval required for network capacity (add 2-6 weeks)
• Consumer unit upgrade needed (add 1-2 weeks)
• Complex cable routing requiring building works approvals (add 2-4 weeks)

Costs After the Grant

Typical Flat Installation Costs

Flat installations are generally more expensive than house installations due to:

• Longer cable runs (from flat to parking space)
• More complex routing (through communal areas)
• Potential need for trunking or conduit in communal spaces
• Additional labour time

Standard flat installation:

• Total cost before grant: £1,200-£1,800
• Less OZEV grant: £350
• You pay: £850-£1,450

Complex flat installation (long cable runs, multiple floors):

• Total cost before grant: £1,800-£2,500
• Less OZEV grant: £350
• You pay: £1,450-£2,150

Breakdown of typical costs:

• Charger unit: £600-£900
• Labour: £400-£800
• Materials (cable, trunking, fixings): £150-£400
• Testing and certification: £100-£200
• DNO notification: Included
• Grant application admin: Included

Additional Costs to Budget For

Consumer unit upgrade (if required): £400-£900 Needed if your flat has an old fuse box without adequate RCD protection or capacity.

Parking post installation (if no wall mounting available): £300-£600 Some parking bays lack suitable walls. Free-standing posts provide mounting points but add cost.

Trunking in communal areas (if required by building management): £200-£500 Some buildings require exposed cables in communal areas to be in trunking for aesthetics and protection.

Building management approval fees: £0-£250 Some management companies charge administrative fees for alterations. Check beforehand.

Access equipment (for underground car parks with low clearance): £100-£300 Specialist access may be needed for installations in tight spaces.

Local Authority Top-Up Grants

Some UK councils offer additional grants that can be combined with the OZEV grant:

Scotland

Energy Saving Trust Scotland:

• Additional £300 grant for home chargers
• Available to all Scottish residents with off-street parking
• Can be combined with OZEV grant (if eligible)
• Total potential grant: £650 (£350 OZEV + £300 EST)
• Application through EST-approved installers

London Boroughs

Check your London borough for local schemes:

Hackney: Previously offered £1,000 grants (check current status) Hounslow: On-street and off-street charging grant schemes Richmond: Residential charger support schemes Sutton: Grants for residents installing chargers

Note: London schemes change frequently. Check your council's website under "electric vehicle charging" or "green travel" sections.

Other Regions

Check your local authority website. Search:

• "[Your council name] electric vehicle grant"
• "[Your council name] EV charger support"
• "[Your council name] green travel funding"

Councils with active environmental programmes are most likely to offer additional support.

Workplace Charging Scheme

If you're a business owner or landlord:

Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS):

• £350 per socket (up to 40 sockets)
• For businesses, charities, and public sector
• Covers chargers for employee and fleet use
• Different application process (not for residential)

Example: A landlord with 10 flats could install 10 chargers and claim £3,500 through WCS (if installing for resident use), potentially passing savings to tenants.

Tax Benefits and Company Car Savings

Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) Tax

If you have an EV company car, you benefit from extremely low BIK tax:

2025-26 rates:

• Electric vehicles: 2% BIK rate
• Petrol/diesel: 20-37% BIK rate

Example savings:

• Tesla Model 3 (P11D value £45,000)
• Employee in 40% tax bracket
• EV BIK tax: £360/year
• Equivalent petrol car BIK tax: £3,600+/year
• Annual saving: £3,240

Home charging for company EVs can be reimbursed tax-free using HMRC's advisory electricity rate (currently 9p per mile for fully electric cars).

Company EV Charger Tax Relief

Businesses installing EV chargers can claim:

100% First Year Allowance: Full cost deductible against profits in the year of installation

Structures and Buildings Allowance: For integrated charging infrastructure

Example: A business installs £10,000 of EV charging infrastructure. With 100% FYA and 25% corporation tax, the business saves £2,500 in tax—effectively reducing installation cost to £7,500.

VAT on Charging

Home charging electricity: 5% VAT (domestic rate) Public charging electricity: 20% VAT (standard rate)

Another reason home charging is far more cost-effective than public charging.

Maximising Your Savings Beyond the Grant

Smart Tariffs for Flat Dwellers

Even in flats, you can benefit from EV-specific electricity tariffs:

Octopus Intelligent Go:

• 7p/kWh overnight (23:30-05:30)
• Additional smart slots when grid is cheap
• Requires compatible smart charger (Ohme, Wallbox, etc.)
• Potential saving: £400-£500/year vs standard tariff

OVO Charge Anytime:

• Effective 7p/kWh average through smart optimization
• Works with most smart chargers
• Flexible charging windows

British Gas Electric Drivers:

• 9p/kWh overnight rate
• Simple switching process

E.ON Next Drive:

• Competitive EV rates
• App integration

Annual charging costs (10,000 miles):

• Standard tariff (24p/kWh): £685
• Smart tariff (7p/kWh): £200
• Annual saving: £485

Over 5 years, smart tariff saves £2,425—far more than the grant amount. Combined with the £350 grant, your total savings over 5 years are approximately £2,775 compared to standard-rate charging.

Solar and Battery Storage

Some modern apartment buildings have communal solar PV or battery storage. If your building has this:

Investigate integration: Some setups allow residents to benefit from solar generation for charging. Speak to your building management about whether this is possible.

Future-proofing: Mention to your installer if the building has solar. Some chargers (like Zappi) can integrate with solar systems if the infrastructure is configured appropriately.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge 1: Freeholder Refusing Permission

Problem: Freeholder or building management denies permission for charger installation.

Solutions:

Understand their concerns: Common objections include:

• Aesthetic impact on building
• Safety concerns about electrical installation
• Liability worries about communal area cables
• Precedent concerns (if one person has charger, everyone will want one)

Address concerns systematically:

• Provide professional specification sheets showing discrete charger design
• Offer to use chargers in neutral colours matching building
• Provide installer credentials (OZEV-authorized, NICEIC registered)
• Offer insurance indemnity for the installation
• Propose cable routing that doesn't impact communal areas
• Highlight increasing EV adoption (this won't be the last request)

Legal considerations: Under the Leasehold Reform Act, freeholders cannot unreasonably withhold permission for improvements. If you believe refusal is unreasonable:

• Request written reasons for refusal
• Consult a property solicitor specialising in leasehold
• Consider whether refusal breaches your lease terms
• Explore dispute resolution or tribunal if necessary

Compromise solutions:

• Offer to install at your expense and maintain indefinitely
• Propose that charger ownership transfers to building (increasing property value)
• Suggest trial period with option to remove if problems arise
• Coordinate with other residents to propose building-wide scheme

Challenge 2: Long Cable Runs Increasing Costs

Problem: Your flat is several floors above parking, requiring expensive cable runs.

Solutions:

Optimise routing: Work with installer to find most cost-effective route:

• Use existing cable risers or service ducts
• Route externally down building exterior if acceptable
• Investigate whether parking has separate sub-distribution board closer than main consumer unit

Share costs: If multiple residents want chargers:

• Coordinate installations to share cable routing costs
• Bulk installation may reduce per-unit costs
• Approach building management about building-wide scheme

Alternative power sources: Some car parks have their own electrical distribution:

• Check if car park has separate electrical supply
• Installation from car park supply may be cheaper than running cable from flat
• Building management may need to facilitate this

Challenge 3: Shared or Unallocated Parking

Problem: You don't have a dedicated parking space—parking is unallocated or first-come-first-served.

Solutions:

Unfortunately, you're not eligible for the grant without dedicated parking. However:

Request allocated parking: Ask building management to allocate spaces. Many buildings are moving to allocated systems as EV charging becomes common.

Coordinate with management: Propose building-wide charging scheme with:

• Multiple chargers in communal areas
• RFID access control for residents
• Usage-based billing through charger network

Alternative charging:

• Workplace charging (if available)
• Nearby public charging networks
• On-street residential chargers (if your council has schemes)

Challenge 4: Consumer Unit in Wrong Location

Problem: Your consumer unit is on the opposite side of your flat from parking, requiring extensive internal routing.

Solutions:

External routing: Cable can be routed:

• Down exterior walls in conduit
• Through external trunking
• Underground (if ground floor)

Alternative supply points: Check for:

• Sub-boards closer to parking
• Communal electrical distribution in car park
• Building's main distribution board (requires building management cooperation)

Cost-benefit analysis: If internal routing costs £1,000+ extra:

• Calculate 5-year savings from home charging (£2,000-£3,000)
• Installation still cost-effective despite high cable routing costs
• Consider whether splitting costs with other residents installing simultaneously reduces individual expense

Challenge 5: Building Management Requiring Specific Standards

Problem: Building management imposes additional requirements (e.g., specific cable types, routing methods, or aesthetic requirements).

Solutions:

Work within requirements: Professional installers can usually accommodate:

• Specific trunking colours
• Fire-rated cable for certain areas
• Conduit rather than exposed cables
• Discrete charger models

Costs: Additional requirements may add £200-£500 to installation. Building management should provide requirements in writing before you obtain quotes.

Negotiate: If requirements seem excessive:

• Ask management to justify on safety/regulatory grounds
• Propose alternative solutions achieving same objectives at lower cost
• Consult multiple installers about whether requirements are standard practice

After Installation: Getting the Most from Your Charger

Smart Charging Setup

Maximise savings by properly configuring smart features:

Step 1: Connect to WiFi

• All OZEV-approved chargers have connectivity
• Follow manufacturer instructions for WiFi setup
• Ensure charger is within WiFi range (consider extender if car park is remote)

Step 2: Download charger app

• Ohme: Ohme app (iOS/Android)
• Wallbox: MyWallbox app
• Zappi: myenergi app
• Pod Point: Pod Point app
• EO: EO Charging app

Step 3: Configure smart charging

• Set your ready-by time (e.g., 7:00am)
• Configure charging schedules
• Set maximum charge level (if you prefer charging to 80% for battery longevity)
• Enable smart tariff integration if available

Step 4: Switch to EV tariff

• Compare Octopus Intelligent, OVO Charge Anytime, British Gas Electric Drivers
• Switch through comparison sites or directly with supplier
• Update charger app with new tariff settings

Monitoring and Optimisation

Track your charging:

• All smart chargers provide energy usage data
• Monitor kWh consumed and costs
• Identify patterns and optimise further

Example insights from tracking:

• "I'm charging 250 kWh/month, costing £17.50 on Octopus Intelligent"
• "That's equivalent to 875 miles, or 2p per mile"
• "Previously spent £125/month on petrol for same mileage"
• "Saving: £107.50 per month, £1,290 per year"

Maintenance and Care

Monthly checks:

• Visual inspection for damage
• Cable condition (if tethered charger)
• Ensure charger is securely mounted
• Check status lights indicate normal operation

Quarterly checks:

• Test cable retention/release mechanisms
• Verify smart features still working (check recent charging sessions in app)
• Clean charger exterior with damp cloth

Annual professional inspection (optional, £80-£120):

• Electrical safety testing
• Firmware updates
• Connection integrity verification

Conclusion: Claiming Your Grant

The OZEV grant provides valuable support for flat owners and tenants installing EV chargers in 2025. While the grant is no longer available to house owners, the £350 remains significant for those facing the higher costs and complexities of flat installations.

Key takeaways:

1. Eligibility is specific: Only flats and rental properties with dedicated parking qualify
2. Installer handles application: Choose an OZEV-authorized installer who manages the entire process
3. Combine with other savings: Local authority grants, smart tariffs, and tax benefits multiply your savings
4. Permissions are crucial: Obtain freeholder/building management approval before proceeding
5. Installation is feasible: Despite challenges, professional installers routinely complete flat installations

Total 5-year savings from grant and smart charging:

• OZEV grant: £350
• Smart tariff savings: £2,425 (£485/year × 5 years)
• Combined saving: £2,775

Compared to installation cost of £1,200-£1,800 (before grant), you achieve net positive returns within 2-3 years, with substantial ongoing savings thereafter.

Ready to proceed? Start by:

1. Confirming your eligibility
2. Obtaining freeholder permission
3. Requesting quotes from three OZEV-authorized installers
4. Choosing your installer and letting them handle the grant application

The transition to electric motoring is significantly easier and more affordable with the OZEV grant supporting your home charging infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim the OZEV grant if I own a house with a driveway?

No, the grant is no longer available to homeowners with off-street parking as of April 2022. The grant now only applies to:

• Flat owners with dedicated parking
• Tenants in rental accommodation (flats or houses) with dedicated parking

The government refocused the grant to support those facing greater installation barriers. However, check your local authority website—some councils offer their own grants available to all homeowners, regardless of property type.

How do I find out if I've already claimed the OZEV grant?

If you're unsure whether a previous occupant or you have claimed the grant:

Check with your installer: OZEV-authorized installers can verify grant claim history for your address through the OZEV portal during the application process.

Review property documents: If you purchased recently, check whether a charger was installed with grant funding (this should have been disclosed by the seller).

Contact OZEV directly: For complex situations, contact the OZEV Customer Service Team at customerservice@ozev.gov.uk with your address and query.

Important: Each parking space is eligible for one grant. If your flat has two designated spaces and only one grant was claimed, you may be able to claim for the second space (with a second charger installation).

Can my landlord claim the grant for me?

Yes, landlords can apply for the grant on behalf of tenants, but specific conditions apply:

Landlord applications must:

• Be for a charger that a specific tenant with an EV will use
• Not be general property improvements (you can't install chargers for future hypothetical EV-owning tenants)
• Have the tenant's involvement in the application

In practice:

• The tenant usually initiates the process
• The installer coordinates with both landlord and tenant
• The landlord provides necessary permissions and property documentation
• The grant is claimed by the installer during installation

If you're a tenant wanting a charger, discuss with your landlord. Highlight that a charger increases property value and appeal to future tenants, making it a worthwhile investment even beyond the grant.

What happens if I sell my flat after installing the charger?

The charger typically stays with the property and adds value to your sale:

Property value increase: £500-£1,000 for EV-owning buyers (an increasingly large market segment).

Grant implications: The grant was for your parking space, not you personally. When you sell:

• The charger remains at the property
• The new owner cannot claim another grant for that same parking space
• This should be disclosed during the sale (mention in property particulars)

Alternative scenario: If you really want to take the charger to your new property:

• You can remove it (requires qualified electrician, £100-£200)
• The parking space becomes eligible for a new grant claim again (since the original charger was removed)
• You'll need to install your removed charger at your new property (not grant-eligible if it's a house)
• Generally not worthwhile—better to leave charger and factor value into sale price

Are there grants for on-street charging?

There's no direct consumer grant for on-street charging, but alternatives exist:

Local Authority On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS):

• Supports councils installing on-street chargers
• Not a direct consumer grant
• Check your council's EV infrastructure plans
• Many London boroughs and progressive councils have active programmes

Council-specific schemes:

• Some councils offer residents the ability to request on-street chargers
• Camden, Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea have established programmes
• Usually free or subsidised for residents

How to access:

1. Check your council website for EV charging infrastructure
2. Register interest in on-street charging
3. Some councils maintain waiting lists or prioritise based on demand in specific streets

Alternative: If your employer offers workplace charging, this can supplement lack of home charging. Some employers install chargers through the Workplace Charging Scheme.

Can I get the grant for a second charger if I have two parking spaces?

Yes, if your flat has two dedicated parking spaces, you can potentially claim two grants:

Requirements:

• Two physically separate parking spaces, both allocated to your flat
• Two separate chargers (you can't claim twice for one charger)
• Both spaces have practical locations for charger installation

Practical considerations:

• Do you have two EVs, or plan to have two?
• Installation costs: Two chargers cost less than twice a single installation if done simultaneously (shared labour and materials)
• Consumer unit capacity: Ensure your electrical supply can support two 7kW chargers (unlikely both would charge simultaneously at full rate, but load management may be needed)

Cost example:

• Two chargers installed simultaneously: £2,000-£3,000
• Less two grants (2 × £350): £700
• You pay: £1,300-£2,300

This makes sense for two-EV households with two allocated spaces. Discuss with your installer during the survey.

Do I need planning permission for a charger in a flat car park?

Most flat car park charger installations don't require planning permission, but there are considerations:

Planning permission generally NOT required:

• Private residential car parks (underground or surface)
• Chargers mounted within your allocated parking space
• Standard charger designs

Planning permission MAY be required:

• Listed buildings: Almost always require listed building consent
• Conservation areas: Check with local planning authority
• Communal areas in shared ownership schemes: May have planning implications

What you definitely need:

• Freeholder/building management permission (even if planning permission isn't required)
• Building Regulations compliance (your installer handles this)
• Compliance with building's own rules and covenants

Best practice: Your OZEV-authorized installer will advise on planning requirements during the survey. If there's any doubt, they'll contact the local planning authority on your behalf. Planning permission, if required, typically takes 8 weeks, so factor this into your timeline.

How long is the OZEV grant available?

The government hasn't announced an end date for the EV chargepoint grant, but grants can change:

Current status (2025): The grant is ongoing with £350 value for eligible properties (flats and rental accommodation).

Historical changes:

• Pre-April 2022: £350 grant for all homeowners with off-street parking
• April 2022: Grant restricted to flats and rental properties only
• Grant value was previously £500 (reduced to £350 in 2022)

Future uncertainty: The government may:

• Extend the grant indefinitely
• Reduce the grant value further
• End the grant if EV adoption reaches targets
• Refocus criteria again

Advice: If you're eligible and planning to install a charger, don't delay unnecessarily. While the grant will likely continue for several more years, there's no guarantee it won't change. Installation timelines are 6-8 weeks anyway, so starting the process now makes sense if you have an EV or plan to get one soon.

Stay updated: Check gov.uk and search "EV chargepoint grant" for the latest official information. OZEV-authorized installers also stay current with grant status and will inform you of any changes during the quotation process.