What to Expect During a Professional EV Charger Installation

As more households across the UK make the switch to electric vehicles, home charging is fast becoming a necessity rather than a luxury. Public charging networks provide convenience on the go, but the ability to charge at home remains the most practical and cost-effective solution for most drivers. If you have decided to install an EV charger at your property, it is natural to wonder what happens during the installation process. A professional installation visit is designed to ensure the charger is fitted safely, complies with all regulations, and integrates smoothly with your home’s electrical system. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare and make the day run more smoothly.

Preparing for the installation

Before the installation day, most installers will conduct a pre-survey of your property. This may be done in person or remotely using photos and videos. The survey helps the installer understand where the charger will be located, how the cabling will be run, and whether your existing consumer unit has the capacity to handle the additional load. At this stage, you will be asked about your preferred location for the charger, usually on an exterior wall with easy access to your driveway or parking space. The installer will also assess whether any upgrades are needed to your electrics before the charger can be fitted.

The arrival of the installer

On the day of installation, the engineer will arrive with the necessary tools, materials, and the charger itself. They will usually begin by reviewing the agreed plan with you and confirming the location of the charger. Professional installers work in line with the IET Wiring Regulations and follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure compliance. Expect the installer to explain the process, answer any questions you may have, and outline how long the job is likely to take. Most standard installations are completed within three to six hours, depending on the complexity.

Electrical checks and safety measures

The first practical step involves isolating the power supply to ensure the work can be carried out safely. The installer will then examine your consumer unit, protective devices, and main earthing system. These checks are essential to confirm that your home is capable of supporting the new load. In some cases, upgrades may be required, such as fitting a new circuit breaker or adding a residual current device (RCD) for extra protection. Safety is always the top priority, so no shortcuts will be taken.

Fitting the charger unit

Once safety checks are complete, the installer will mount the charger to the chosen wall. This involves securely fixing the unit with brackets and ensuring it is positioned for convenient use. The engineer will then route the cabling from your consumer unit to the charger. Depending on your property, this may involve running cables along exterior walls, through loft spaces, or underground. Installers aim to keep cabling neat and unobtrusive, but the exact route will depend on your home’s layout. Once connected, the charger will be wired into the consumer unit on its own dedicated circuit.

Connecting to the power supply

With the physical unit in place, the installer will make the electrical connections and restore power. At this point, the charger becomes a functioning part of your home’s system. Modern chargers often include smart features that require connection to your Wi-Fi or mobile data. The installer will help set up these features, ensuring the charger can communicate with your vehicle and provide access to apps or online monitoring. This stage also involves updating the charger’s firmware if necessary, so you start with the most up-to-date software.

Testing and commissioning

Before the job is complete, thorough testing will take place. The installer will check the charger delivers the correct voltage and current, confirm that protective devices operate correctly, and simulate fault conditions to ensure safety mechanisms work as intended. Once testing is complete, the charger will be commissioned and ready for use. You will be shown how to plug in your vehicle, access smart features, and monitor energy usage. Many installers also provide guidance on tariffs, explaining how you can save money by charging during off-peak hours.

Providing certification and documentation

After installation, you should receive an electrical installation certificate or minor works certificate, confirming the work complies with UK regulations. This documentation is important for safety records, insurance purposes, and future property sales. If your installation qualified for a government grant, such as the EV Chargepoint Grant, the installer will also provide the necessary paperwork to confirm compliance. Always keep these documents safe, as they prove your charger has been installed correctly and to the required standards.

What happens if upgrades are needed?

Not all installations are straightforward. In some homes, the existing consumer unit may not have capacity for the charger, or the main supply may need upgrading by the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO). If this is the case, your installer will explain the options and costs involved. In some situations, the work may need to be delayed until the supply is upgraded. While this can add time and expense, it ensures your home remains safe and future-proofs your electrical system for additional loads such as heat pumps or solar panels.

Keeping disruption to a minimum

Most professional installations are carried out with minimal disruption. Installers are trained to work efficiently and to respect your home, tidying up after themselves and ensuring any holes or cable routes are neatly finished. In some cases, minor drilling or digging may be required, but this will be discussed during the pre-survey. By planning ahead and clearing access to the consumer unit and driveway, you can help the process run more smoothly.

Conclusion

A professional EV charger installation visit involves much more than simply attaching a unit to the wall. From safety checks and electrical upgrades to careful cabling and commissioning, the process ensures your charger works reliably and complies with UK regulations. By knowing what to expect, you can prepare for installation day, reduce disruption, and feel confident that your charger is safe and efficient. The result is a convenient, cost-effective charging solution that supports your transition to electric driving and contributes to the UK’s wider sustainability goals.