EV Charging for Flats & Renters: What Are Your Options?
Not having a driveway or owning your home makes EV charging harder — but not impossible. Here's what the options are in 2026.
The Challenge
Around 40% of UK households don't have access to off-street parking — a prerequisite for a home charge point. Renters face an additional hurdle: they need landlord permission for any installation. For flat dwellers, communal car parks add another layer of complexity.
The good news: the situation is improving. Regulations, grants, and infrastructure investment are all expanding options for drivers without driveways.
Options Without a Driveway
| Option | Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-street charge point (council) | Typically 30–65p/kWh | Convenient if close to home | May need to walk to charger; variable reliability |
| Lamppost charger | 30–50p/kWh | Uses existing infrastructure; expanding rapidly | Slow (3.7kW typical); cable management |
| Workplace charging | Often free or subsidised | Charges while you work | Requires employer provision |
| Destination charging (supermarket, gym) | Free–40p/kWh | Useful for top-up while out | Not reliable as primary charging |
| Communal car park charger | Varies | Close to home, overnight possible | Requires landlord/management company agreement |
Renting With a Driveway: Landlord Permissions
If you rent a property with a driveway, you can request permission to install a home charge point. Key points:
- The Renters' Reform Act creates stronger rights for tenants to request green improvements — landlords must not unreasonably refuse
- The OZEV EV Chargepoint Grant extends to renters in some circumstances — check current eligibility criteria
- The installation is typically the tenant's responsibility, though costs can sometimes be negotiated
- On leaving, the charge point may need to be removed or can be left for the next tenant (discuss with landlord)
Eligible renters may be able to claim the OZEV EV Chargepoint Grant if the landlord gives written permission. Check the current OZEV website for the latest eligibility criteria, as these are updated periodically.
Flats and Communal Car Parks
Installing EV charging in a shared car park requires agreement from the building management company, freeholder, or residents' management company. The process typically involves:
- Raising the proposal with the building management
- Getting a survey and quote from an approved installer
- Applying for the OZEV EV Infrastructure Grant for Residential Car Parks (up to £30,000 for eligible buildings)
- Installation of charge points with individual billing
The OZEV EV Infrastructure Grant for Residential Car Parks provides significant funding for exactly this scenario — making communal EV charging in flats economically viable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my landlord refuse to let me install an EV charger?
Under evolving UK tenancy law, landlords are increasingly restricted from unreasonably refusing green improvement requests. However, the specifics depend on your lease terms and current legislation. Seek advice from a housing charity or Citizens Advice if your landlord refuses without reasonable grounds.
Is a lamppost charger fast enough for daily use?
Lamppost chargers are typically 3.7kW — adding around 12–15 miles of range per hour. If you can leave the car connected for 6–8 hours overnight, that covers most drivers' daily needs. They're less suitable for high-mileage drivers or those who need a quick top-up.
What is the OZEV EV Infrastructure Grant for Residential Car Parks?
This is a separate OZEV grant for residential buildings with communal parking — such as blocks of flats. It provides up to £30,000 (or up to 75% of costs) for installing EV charge points in eligible buildings. It's applied for by the building owner or management company, not individual residents. See the OZEV website for current details.