Ask with a plan, not a slogan. Tell the landlord where the car parks, how the cable would run, who would own the unit, who would pay, and how the wall will be left if you move out. Point them at a competent installer and, if a renter or landlord grant might apply, at the current GOV.UK scheme rather than a promise of free money. Landlords say no when they picture damage, insurance and a fight with the freeholder. Answer those points on one page.
How asking a landlord for an EV charger moves the job
You may pay, they may pay, or a grant may contribute. Any of those can be fair if it is written. A verbal yes is not enough to book the install.
What goes wrong with asking a landlord for an EV charger
The mistake is drilling during a periodic tenancy because the letting agent 'did not reply'. Silence is not consent.
Point at asking a landlord for an EV charger in the pack
Get a signed consent that names the location, the owner of the kit and the exit condition.
Asking a landlord for an EV charger
If you do not have a bay, say so and do not ask for a pavement lead. Ask about a different parking right or accept public charging.
- One-page proposal
- Name ownership and exit
- No bay means no charger
- Written consent before a deposit
Asking a landlord for an EV charger: questions for the first visit
Offer access for the survey and a draft consent letter. Managing agents respond better to a document than to a text.
Frequently asked questions
Can the landlord refuse?
Yes, subject to the tenancy and any future legal changes you should check rather than assume. A refusal ends the install.
Should I pay and leave the kit?
Only if the consent says the landlord accepts that. Otherwise you may have to make good.
Will a grant persuade them?
It can help the money. It does not remove their insurance and freeholder questions.
Can I use a portable charger instead?
Only as a temporary, safe socket arrangement the landlord allows. It is not a secret wallbox.
Core buying guides
Start with these high-intent guides, then dig into the rest of the library.
Related guides
Sources and further reading
How this guide was prepared
This guide was written by the Local EV Installers Editorial Team. We compare official guidance, legislation and established consumer information, separate general information from project-specific advice, and show publication dates and sources. We do not accept installer accreditation claims at face value.