Before accepting a UK EV charger quote, confirm the exact charger model, mounting method, circuit design, earthing and protection measures, cable route length, making-good, VAT, exclusions and who handles DNO steps. Ask what could change the price after opening-up works, how warranties split between parts and labour, and whether the product meets smart charge-point rules for private use. A clear written answer to those points is more valuable than a small discount on an opaque package.
Questions about scope and price
Ask whether the total is fixed after survey or still an estimate. Itemise the charger, isolation, containment, mounting, labour, testing, VAT and any consumer-unit works. Provisional sums should be labelled as such with a trigger for when they become firm.
Clarify making-good: filler and paint touch-up are not the same as full redecoration. External groundworks for posts or ducting should state who digs, who reinstates and who owns buried ducting afterwards.
- Is the price VAT inclusive?
- What exactly is excluded?
- How long is the quote valid?
- What deposit is required and when is the balance due?
Questions about electrics and safety
Request the proposed circuit rating, cable type, protective devices and isolation method. Ask how open PEN fault protection and RCD requirements will be met for your earthing arrangement. If a board upgrade is recommended, ask whether the charger can proceed without it and what risk that would leave.
Confirm whether load management or a lower charge rate is proposed because of supply limits. A cheaper quote that silently derates the charger may not match the performance you expected from the brochure.
Questions about network, smart features and permissions
Ask if the job is Connect and Notify or apply-first, and who submits the paperwork. For flats and rentals, confirm whose name appears on consent applications and whether managing-agent fees sit outside the electrical quote.
Check that the charger model is appropriate under the Electric Vehicles (Smart Charge Points) Regulations for private charge points, and ask how default off-peak behaviour, randomised delay and app control will be set at handover.
Questions about programme and disruption
Get a target install week, expected on-site duration and power-off windows. Ask where vehicles need to be moved, whether parking suspensions are required and who arranges them. External drilling next to neighbours deserves a courtesy plan even when formal permission is not needed.
If the quote depends on you supplying Wi-Fi credentials or a preferred tariff schedule, prepare those before the install day to avoid an incomplete handover.
Questions about warranty and aftercare
Separate manufacturer hardware warranty from installer labour warranty. Ask for response times if the unit fails, whether a like-for-like replacement visit is chargeable, and who supports software or connectivity faults. Get the complaints email or phone number that is monitored.
Finally ask what success looks like on the day: test sheet completed, app paired, first charge demonstrated, certificates emailed. Acceptance criteria prevent arguments later.
Frequently asked questions
How many quotes should I get?
Two or three surveyed quotes are usually enough. More than that rarely helps unless the first scopes disagree technically.
What is the most important question?
What could change this price after work starts, and how will those changes be authorised in writing before proceeding.
Should every quote include a consumer-unit upgrade?
Only if the survey shows it is needed. A quote that always includes one, or never considers one, may not be property-specific.
Can I accept a quote subject to landlord consent?
Yes, but put that condition in writing and avoid large non-refundable deposits until consent is realistic.
Do I need the charger brand confirmed before accepting?
Yes. Exact model, tethered or untethered status, cable length and colour finish should be named, because features and warranties differ.
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.