Yes, it is possible to install an electric vehicle charger in a rental property, but it typically requires permission from the landlord. Many landlords are open to such installations, especially if it adds value to the property. However, it's essential to have a clear agreement in place regarding who will cover the installation costs, maintenance, and what will happen if you or the landlord decide to move.
Additionally, it's worth exploring grants and incentives that may be available to help with the installation cost. In the UK, there are government schemes and grants designed to encourage the installation of EV chargers, and these could provide financial assistance for both landlords and tenants. It's advisable to check the eligibility criteria and requirements for such grants to see if they apply to your situation.
1. Tethered EV Charger: This type of charger comes with a cable that is permanently attached to the charging unit. When you want to charge your electric vehicle, you simply pull out the cable from the charger and plug it into your vehicle's charging port. Tethered chargers are convenient because the cable is always ready for use, and you don't need to carry a separate charging cable with you.
2. Untethered EV Charger: An untethered charger, on the other hand, does not have a cable permanently attached to it. Instead, it features a socket or connector where you can plug in a separate charging cable. With an untethered charger, you need to provide your own charging cable, which you connect to the charger and your electric vehicle when you're ready to charge.
The choice between a tethered and untethered EV charger depends on your preferences and needs. Tethered chargers are convenient for everyday use and are often found in residential settings. Untethered chargers may be preferred by those who want flexibility, as they can use different cables with the same charger or carry a single cable for multiple charging stations.
Smart chargers require a back-office software platform to do some of the technical stuff, such as user monitoring or scheduled charging. However, most chargers come with apps which have most of (if not all) the functionality of the back-office software. If you wish to take payment with your chargers, you may need to look at specialist back-office payment software – ask our EV experts for more information.
Most of the smart chargers available on the market now come complete with a mobile app enabling you to
schedule charging, monitor charging progress or be notified if your charging has stopped for any reason.