Will You Get an EV Charger with Your New Build Home?

If you're purchasing a new-build home, there is some positive news: it is highly likely that your home will be equipped with an electric vehicle (EV) charger or at the very least, be EV-ready.

In June 2022, building regulations were updated to require most new homes with parking spaces to include EV charging points. While this is a significant step forward in promoting electric vehicles (EVs), there are certain exceptions and conditions you should be aware of. Here is an overview of what the new regulations entail.

Update to Building Regulations

The government introduced new requirements under Part S of the Building Regulations in June 2022. These regulations aim to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles by ensuring that new homes are equipped with the necessary infrastructure.

Under these rules:

• All new homes with an associated parking space must have an EV charging point installed.
• If the parking space is within the property boundary and is designated for use by the resident or their visitors, the property must include an EV charger.

For larger-scale developments undergoing major renovations, the following applies:

• If a development includes 10 or more parking spaces, one EV charger must be installed per dwelling, with provisions for additional cable routes for future installations.

Exceptions to the Regulations

Although the majority of new-build homes are required to have EV chargers, there are certain situations where these regulations do not apply. These include:

• Geographic Exemption: Homes in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland are currently exempt from these regulations. The regulations do not apply in these regions as of now, though this could change in the future.
• Covered Parking: If your new home has covered parking (e.g., a carport or garage), the developer is only required to install cable routing for an EV charger, not the actual charger itself.
• Cost Limitations: If the installation of an EV charger exceeds £3,600 per unit, the developer may be exempt from installing the charger. In this case, only the required cable routes will be provided.
• Construction Start Date: These regulations only apply to buildings where construction commenced after June 15, 2023. Any developments started before this date are not subject to the new requirements.

The Benefits of Having an EV Charger

Installing an EV charger at a new-build property offers numerous advantages for both homeowners and developers. These include:

• Convenience for Homeowners: EV owners benefit from the ability to charge their vehicle conveniently at home, ensuring a full charge overnight and reducing reliance on public charging infrastructure.
• Increased Property Value: Homes with integrated EV charging points are likely to be more attractive to buyers, which can increase the property’s market value, particularly as the demand for EVs continues to rise.
• Environmental Benefits: By ensuring new builds are equipped with EV charging infrastructure, the government aims to support the transition to a low-emissions future. Communities that are prepared for electric vehicles will contribute to a cleaner, greener environment.

Ready to Find a New Build with an EV Charger?

As the popularity of electric vehicles grows, many new developments are now equipped with the necessary charging infrastructure. Whether you are looking for a home in the city, suburbs, or countryside, you are likely to find a development with an EV charger installed or at least the provision for one.

Begin your search for a new-build home with an EV charger today. Simply enter your desired location to explore available properties.