EV charging regulations

The rise in popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming transportation across the UK, prompting a growing need for clear guidance on regulations related to EV charging points.

Whether you are a business owner, property developer, local authority or housing association, understanding your obligations and responsibilities with respect to EV charging regulations is crucial to ensure compliance and smooth integration into your operational framework.

What are the EV charging regulatory requirements?

As electric vehicles become increasingly popular, the UK government continues to update existing legislation to facilitate the country’s shift towards renewable and sustainable transport. This includes establishing clear guidelines about EV charging infrastructure, installation, accessibility and safety standards.

Businesses and commercial property owners in particular must familiarise themselves with these regulations to ensure compliance, thereby avoiding potential legal risk and penalties.

Key UK regulations governing EV charging points

There are several key legislative provisions governing electric vehicle charging infrastructure, notably:

• Building regulations Part S (Infrastructure for the charging of electric vehicles): Introduced in 2022, these provisions mandate new residential and commercial developments to install infrastructure suitable for EV charging.
• The Automated and Electric Vehicles Act 2018: This legislation establishes the framework for EV charger installation and usage, emphasising safety, accessibility and standardisation requirements.
• The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (amended): Under certain conditions stipulated in this Order, planning permission may not be required for EV charging installations.
• The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and Wiring Regulations BS7671: These set safety standards for electrical installations, including EV chargers, to ensure safe and adequate usage.

Ensuring compliance with EV charging regulations

To avoid potential complications, property developers, landlords and businesses should proactively review and consider the following:

• Conducting thorough due diligence and understanding specific obligations under current EV regulations, such as Building Regulations Part S.
• Engaging appropriately qualified electricians and installers who strictly adhere to recognised British safety standards (BS7671 Wiring Regulations).
• Maintaining accurate installation records, inspection certificates and relevant compliance documentation.
• Consulting proactively with local councils and planning authorities to determine whether planning permission or other approvals are necessary.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

There are some key mistakes frequently experienced by businesses implementing EV charging installations, including:

• Failure to comply correctly with Part S and other recent building regulation updates, resulting in potential enforcement notices and costly rectification works.
• Inadequate planning and insufficient infrastructure installation to support growing usage needs.
• Overlooking accessibility considerations for disabled users, which can lead to dissatisfaction and even legal challenges.
• Neglecting regular inspection and maintenance schedules, thus compromising safety standards.

Businesses can avoid these pitfalls by adopting a proactive compliance strategy that includes regular regulatory reviews, engaging experienced installers and maintenance providers, and consulting legal experts as required.

How Moore Barlow can help

Our experienced team at Moore Barlow can advise on renewable energy and environmental regulations. We can advise clients—from businesses and local authorities to property developers—on EV charging infrastructure regulations and compliance strategies.

Specifically, our services can include:

• Providing clear advice on detailed regulatory requirements relating to EV charging installations.
• Advising on contractual arrangements with suppliers, installers and maintenance providers.