EV Charger Installation in Southampton: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
With more drivers in Southampton switching to electric vehicles, installing a home EV charger has become one of the smartest upgrades for homeowners. It’s faster, cheaper, and far more convenient than relying on public charging — but choosing the right charger and understanding the installation process is essential.
This guide explains everything you need to know before installing an EV charger in your Southampton home, including charger types, costs, regulations, and how to choose the right installer.
1. Why Install a Home EV Charger?
A home charger offers several key benefits:
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- Much faster charging than a standard 3-pin plug
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- Lower running costs — charge overnight using cheaper electricity tariffs
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- More convenient — plug in at home whenever you need
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- Safer and compliant with UK electrical regulations
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- Better long-term care for your EV battery
For most Southampton homeowners, a dedicated 7kW charger is the best balance of speed and cost.
2. What Type of Charger Do You Need?
7kW Chargers (Most Common)
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- Suitable for the vast majority of Southampton homes
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- Works perfectly with standard single-phase UK supply
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- Charges most EVs fully in 6–8 hours
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- Ideal for overnight charging
22kW Chargers (Fastest Option)
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- Requires a three-phase supply — uncommon in older Southampton homes
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- Faster, but often unnecessary for everyday use
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- Worth considering for large properties or multiple EV households
Tethered vs Untethered
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- Tethered: Cable permanently attached — easy, fast, convenient
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- Untethered: Plug in your own cable — cleaner look, more flexible
Most homeowners choose a 7kW smart tethered charger, balancing affordability and ease of use.
3. How Much Does EV Charger Installation Cost in Southampton?
While prices vary, most installations fall within:
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- £850 – £1,200 for a standard 7kW smart charger
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- Additional costs may apply for:
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- Long cable runs
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- Upgrading main fuse
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- Installing an earth rod
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- Complicated routes through walls or outbuildings
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- Additional costs may apply for:
A local survey or photo assessment can give an accurate price before installation begins.
4. Do You Need Planning Permission in Southampton?
In most cases, no planning permission is needed, provided:
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- The charger is under 0.2 cubic metres
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- It’s installed on off-street parking (driveway, garage, etc.)
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- It is not located on a public road or pavement
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- Your home is not a listed property or in a restricted area
If your Southampton property falls into a conservation area, it’s worth checking local guidelines before installation.
5. Are There Safety Requirements?
Yes — and this is where a qualified electrician is essential.
All installations must comply with:
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- BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations)
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- OZEV installation standards (if applicable)
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- Load management & RCD protection requirements
A professional installer will assess your existing supply, ensure the charger is safely connected, and notify your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) if required.
6. How Long Does Installation Take?
Most installations take 2–4 hours, depending on:
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- Cable length required
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- Location of the consumer unit
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- Whether the charger is wall-mounted or free-standing
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- Any additional bonding or safety upgrades
More complex installations can take longer, especially in older or extended properties.
7. Why Choose a Local Southampton Electrician?
Using a trusted local installer offers real advantages:
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- Familiarity with Southampton property layouts
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- Faster site visits and support
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- Ongoing maintenance if needed
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- Better understanding of local DNO processes
A local expert ensures you get the right charger, installed to the highest safety standards.
Ready to Install Your EV Charger?
We offer professional EV charger installation across Southampton, including smart chargers, home surveys, and full safety checks.
Get your free quote today and we’ll recommend the best charger for your home.