More and more of our customers across Bristol and Bath are making the switch to electric vehicles, and with that comes one big question: “Can I just get a charger fitted on my driveway?”
Usually, yes. But the process isn’t always as simple as expected, especially in our local area, where period properties, terraced streets, and conservation rules come into play. Here are the most common mistakes we see, and how to avoid them.
EV charger installation isn’t just a case of running a cable to the wall. It needs to be carried out by a qualified electrician registered with a competent person scheme (such as NICEIC), who can certify the work to current wiring regulations. This isn’t just box-ticking. It ensures your charger is correctly earthed, protected, and won’t overload your existing supply. Always check credentials before booking.
Many homes in Bristol and Bath, particularly older properties in areas like Totterdown, Bedminster, and Bishopston, still have consumer units (fuse boxes) that haven’t been upgraded. An EV charger uses a lot of power, often more than anything else in your house. If your fuse box can't handle that, it'll need upgrading first. This often comes as a surprise during a survey, so it's worth asking about early on.
Bath, in particular, has a large number of listed buildings and properties within conservation areas, and parts of Bristol, such as Clifton, Cotham, Redland, and Hotwells, are subject to similar restrictions. Where a charger is mounted (especially on a front-facing wall), it may require planning permission or listed building consent. It’s worth checking this before you fall in love with a particular charger model or position, as it could mean a redesign or a different installation location altogether.
Not every home has off-street parking, and that’s a real issue across much of inner Bristol and Bath. If you park on the street or share a driveway, a standard home charger may not be practical. There are alternative options worth exploring, including local council on-street charging schemes and shared charging solutions for flats or terraces, but these need to be planned for, not discovered after you’ve already bought a charger.
A cheaper unit might save money upfront, but features like smart scheduling, solar integration, and load-balancing (which prevents your charger from tripping your supply when other appliances are running) can make a real difference, especially in homes with older or smaller electrical supplies. Getting the right charger for your property is often more important than getting the cheapest one.
If you’re thinking about an EV charger, the best first step is a proper electrical survey, not just a chat about which charger looks nice. We’ll check your consumer unit, supply capacity, and any local restrictions before recommending the right setup for your home.
Get in touch with Brunel Electrical for a free, no-obligation EV charger survey across Bristol and Bath.
