Landlords open to installing electric vehicle chargers for tenants

Landlords open to installing electric vehicle chargers for tenants

0:02 AM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago 9

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Electric vehicle (EV) driving renters are in luck, with a new study showing landlords are open to installing charging points at their properties.

Direct Line research reveals a whopping 86% of landlords with suitable homes would consider installing a charger if a tenant requested one.

While a fifth (20%) would cover the entire cost, most landlords expect tenants to contribute (35%) or share the expense (30%).

The insurer says there’s a crucial need for landlords to have a clear written agreement on ownership and maintenance responsibilities when a tenant moves out.

1 in 40 vehicles is electric

Sarah Casey, the landlord product manager at Direct Line business insurance, said: “One in 40 vehicles on our roads are now zero emission, including 960,896 cars.

“With the UK government pathway for zero emission vehicle transition by 2035, demand for rental properties with EV chargers is set to soar as more drivers make the switch.”

She added: “Installing a charger will make a property appealing to a broader range of tenants and add value to the property.”

Landlords are willing to embrace EV charging

The top reasons landlords are willing to embrace EV charging include increased property value (40%), attracting new tenants (40%) and keeping existing tenants happy (40%).

Also, 15% of landlords see it as an opportunity to raise rents.

However, a quarter of landlords (26%) expressed concerns about the extra costs and maintenance involved.

Unlike gas boilers, annual servicing isn’t mandatory for EV chargers, but it’s recommended to ensure efficiency and safety.

To help with the installation costs, landlords can access an electric vehicle charge point grant (up to £350 or 75% off installation costs).

There’s also an electric vehicle infrastructure grant (up to £30,000 or 75% off installation costs for multiple chargers).


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Comments

Mick Roberts

9:20 AM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago

I had about 40 of these fitted free 10-15 years ago. Don't think any of tenants used one.
Part of the grants Govt been doing last 16+ years that's now been on the news to show money going to shoddy companies doing crap insulation & that. Which we've been trying to tell Govt for years, u rushing this EPC C through & leaving us & tenants with crap messed up houses.

Reluctant Landlord

12:06 PM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago

it's a no from me. Tenant wants an electric car then they have to think of ALL the implications and that goes for charging it too. I'm having nothing fixed to my property that I do not give consent to.

Most EV's sold are company cars. So that means the tenant can charge the car at the companies' premise. If they have been promoting the use then they must have their own charging facilities for the employee to use.

I do not want damage to my wall/drive etc, and neither to I want other tenants or visitors (postmen etc) tripping over cables. If on my land that makes me responsible! No thanks!

Rob Crawford

13:41 PM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago

Not sure I would be for my energy inclusive HMO's. Is there a pay as you go supply charging unit available for residential properties?

The Forever Tenant

13:58 PM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago

Last year when our last car broke I made enquiries with our landlord about the possibilities of having an electric charging point installed. He was very happy for it to happen, although in the end we went for a regular car as getting an EV was out of our price range at that point.

It was nice to have it as an option.

Mick Roberts

13:58 PM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago

Reply to the comment left by Rob Crawford at 19/06/2024 - 13:41
Ooh yes good point for those of u that include electric. A future problem we couldn't see 20 years ago. No doubt Labour will have u put in Hydrogen tanks soon.

havens havens

18:18 PM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago

As a renter who drives an electric vehicle, I'm thrilled that 86% of landlords would be open to installing a charging point upon request. Knowing some landlords are even willing to cover the costs themselves is encouraging. With more EVs hitting the roads and the government's push for zero-emission vehicles by 2035, having access to a charger could really enhance the appeal of rental properties. Despite understandable concerns about expenses and upkeep, the availability of grants to offset installation costs makes this prospect even more appealing.

Cider Drinker

18:54 PM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago

I’ll install some diesel pumps whilst I’m at it. I wouldn’t wish to discriminate, after all. That is, except for petrol car drivers - they can use a fuel station.

Cider Drinker

18:56 PM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago

Reply to the comment left by havens havens at 19/06/2024 - 18:18
EVs are only zero emission at the point of use. The environmental damage will have been done when sourcing materials for the build. Ongoing environmental damage will be borne at the electricity generating plant.

Cider Drinker

18:58 PM, 19th June 2024, About 2 weeks ago

FWIW, I’d consider allowing the tenant to pay for the installation of a charge point. Either as a lump sum or over a few years in the form of higher rent.

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