The EV Charger Installation Process: What to Expect
From survey to sign-off — a step-by-step guide to what actually happens when a home EV charger is installed.
Before Installation: The Survey
A reputable installer will carry out a pre-installation survey — either in person or via photos and video. The surveyor assesses:
- Earthing arrangement (PME/TN-S/TT) — determines whether WCED protection is needed
- Consumer unit location and capacity — is there a spare way? Is the incoming fuse rated adequately?
- Proposed charger location — distance from consumer unit, cable routing, surface type
- Internet connectivity at the charger location — needed for smart functionality
- Whether a DNO notification is required (for some higher-power installations)
Many OZEV-authorised installers now do surveys via app — you photograph the consumer unit, proposed charger location, and outside wall. This speeds up quoting but means the installer may not identify all complications until installation day. For complex properties, an in-person survey is worth requesting.
Installation Day: Step by Step
- Isolation and safety: The installer isolates the relevant circuits. This usually means a brief mains-off period.
- Consumer unit work: A new MCB (and WCED device if required) is fitted. If a PME protection distribution board is being installed, this is fitted as a sub-board off the main consumer unit.
- Cable installation: The 6mm² (or 10mm²) SWA or PVC cable is run from the consumer unit to the charger location — surface mounted, buried, or through the structure depending on the property.
- Charger mounting: The charge point is fixed to the wall and the cable terminated.
- Commissioning: The charger is powered up, connected to Wi-Fi, and configured via app. Charging schedules are set, OZEV requirements verified.
- Testing: Earth loop impedance, RCD operation, and insulation resistance tests are carried out. Results are recorded on the Electrical Installation Certificate.
- Sign-off and documentation: You receive the Electrical Installation Certificate, Building Regulations Compliance Certificate, and OZEV grant confirmation.
A straightforward installation typically takes 2–4 hours. More complex jobs (long cable runs, consumer unit upgrades, three-phase work) may take a full day.
What to Check After Installation
- Charger powers on and connects to Wi-Fi
- Charging schedule configured correctly
- Electrical Installation Certificate issued and signed
- Building Regulations Compliance Certificate received
- OZEV grant confirmation received (if applicable)
- Installer has labelled the EV circuit at the consumer unit
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does installation take?
A standard installation (one charger, straightforward cable run, existing consumer unit suitable) takes 2–4 hours. More complex jobs — long cable runs, consumer unit upgrades, PME protection board installation, or three-phase work — can take 4–8 hours.
Do I need to be home during installation?
Yes — the installer will need access to the consumer unit (usually inside), the proposed charger location, and will need to briefly turn off your mains power. Someone should be present throughout.
What if there are problems after installation?
Contact your installer first — they're responsible for making good any installation defects. If the charger itself develops a fault, contact the manufacturer's support line. Keep your Electrical Installation Certificate and any warranty documentation safe.